Consultant for Sustainability Reporting and Disclosure System Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) serves as the regional development arm of the United Nations for the Asia-Pacific region. Established to promote economic and social development in the region, ESCAP works with member states to achieve sustainable development goals. The organization focuses on various areas including macroeconomic policy, financing for development, and sustainable development. ESCAP operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, providing technical assistance, capacity-building, and policy research to support member states in their development efforts. The organization is committed to fostering regional cooperation and integration to address shared challenges and promote sustainable economic growth.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the Financing for Development Section (FFDS) of the Macroeconomic Policy and Financing for Development Division (MPFD) at ESCAP. This position involves the design, development, and operationalization of a digital sustainability reporting and disclosure system tailored for the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC). The consultant will be responsible for conducting needs assessments, defining functional requirements, and ensuring that the system aligns with international sustainability reporting standards and local regulations. The role also includes delivering capacity-building sessions and creating e-learning materials to facilitate effective use of the system by government officials and market participants. The ultimate goal is to enhance the capacity of member states in mobilizing sustainable finance and improving corporate reporting practices related to sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will lead the entire process of designing and developing the sustainability reporting and disclosure system for SERC. Key responsibilities include conducting initial needs assessments and consultations with relevant stakeholders to identify reporting needs and user requirements. The consultant will develop the system architecture, reporting logic, and user interface, ensuring that it incorporates relevant international standards such as ISSB, SASB, and GRI, as well as local regulatory frameworks. The consultant will also prepare technical and user documentation, test the system with pilot users, and refine it based on feedback. Monthly webinar-based capacity-building sessions will be delivered to potential users, along with the development of training materials and e-learning resources. The final deliverable will include a fully functional system handed over to the relevant government authorities, along with comprehensive documentation and support for initial user familiarization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields related to sustainable finance, economics, accounting, information systems, or environmental management. A strong background in sustainability reporting and disclosure system development is essential. Candidates should have at least 3 years of professional experience in leading the development of digital systems for sustainability reporting, with a proven track record of working with regulatory bodies, financial institutions, or public institutions. Familiarity with major sustainability reporting standards and frameworks, as well as local regulatory requirements, is crucial. Candidates must demonstrate strong capabilities in delivering capacity-building activities and producing digital training content, along with excellent interpersonal and coordination skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in sustainable finance, finance, economics, accounting, information systems, computer science, business administration, environmental management, or a related field is required. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of sustainability reporting and disclosure system development, as well as the regulatory frameworks that govern these practices.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 3 years of professional experience in leading the development of digital systems related to sustainability reporting and disclosure. This experience should include working with companies, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, or other relevant organizations. A strong understanding of sustainability reporting standards and the ability to translate these into practical digital solutions is necessary. Experience in capacity-building and training is also required, as the consultant will be responsible for delivering training sessions and creating educational materials.

Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered an asset, but English is the primary language of communication for this role.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is expected to be from 15 September 2026 to 15 March 2027, with a total compensation of USD 60,000 for six months, contingent upon the satisfactory delivery of final deliverables. This includes the completion of monthly webinar-based capacity-building sessions and the submission of final e-learning materials. The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any fraudulent activities related to job applications.