Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment Programme) is recognized as the leading global environmental authority. It plays a pivotal role in setting the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established to serve as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, UN Environment’s Regional Offices are instrumental in implementing global programmes by initiating, coordinating, and catalyzing regional and sub-regional cooperation and action in response to environmental challenges. The organization operates in various regions, addressing pressing environmental issues and fostering sustainable practices.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer position is situated within the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), specifically at the Regional Office for Europe (ROE) in Vienna. The role involves supporting the implementation of UNEP’s programme portfolio in the Carpathian region and the Western Balkans, which includes managing a significant GEF-funded project in Ukraine. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Head of the Vienna Programme Office / Secretariat of the Carpathian Convention, contributing to the development, implementation, and evaluation of various environmental programmes and projects. This position requires a proactive approach to monitoring and analyzing programme/project development, identifying issues, and proposing corrective actions. The officer will also engage in policy development, conduct research, and prepare written outputs such as reports and background papers. The role emphasizes collaboration, outreach, and the ability to conduct training workshops and seminars, making it essential for the officer to possess strong communication and teamwork skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Officer will undertake a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Participating in the development, implementation, and evaluation of assigned programmes/projects, monitoring progress, and analyzing outcomes.
• Conducting consulting assignments in collaboration with clients, facilitating workshops, and assisting in the development of actionable plans.
• Researching and analyzing information from diverse sources to support programme objectives.
• Assisting in policy development through the review and analysis of trends and preparing evaluations or research studies.
• Designing and conducting surveys, analyzing data, and preparing conclusions based on findings.
• Drafting various written outputs, including background papers, reports, and publications.
• Providing substantive support for meetings and conferences, including agenda preparation and document creation.
• Conducting outreach activities and training workshops, as well as making presentations on relevant topics.
• Participating in field missions, providing guidance to external consultants and drafting mission summaries. 1
• Coordinating budget-related activities, preparing financial documents, and analyzing data to identify trends for informed decision-making. 1
• Performing other duties as required to support UNEP’s mission and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in environmental sciences, management, or a related field. An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) is required, although a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of theories and concepts relevant to environmental conservation and project design, as well as the ability to analyze and resolve issues effectively. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental sciences, management, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Additionally, completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered desirable, indicating a preference for candidates with a strong analytical background.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of professional working experience related to environmental issues, conservation, and sustainable development is required, with at least three years of this experience at the international level. Candidates should have a proven track record in project design and development, as well as experience in developing work programs related to environmental protection. Desirable experience includes assisting countries with European Union approximation and implementation of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, familiarity with the United Nations system or similar international organizations, and experience working in the Western Balkan subregion. Additionally, two or more years of experience in data analytics or a related area is preferred.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates are expected to demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking English at UN Level III. Additionally, knowledge of either Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian is desirable, with similar proficiency levels expected in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as a fixed-term appointment limited, and candidates should be aware that if the position is discontinued, the incumbent will be separated from service. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.