Consultant for CITES Permit Data Exchange Feasibility Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UN Environment serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various environmental issues and initiatives. The CITES Secretariat, which is administered by UN Environment, is located in Geneva and is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Job Overview:
The consultant will be tasked with conducting a feasibility assessment for a voluntary global Hub model aimed at facilitating the exchange of CITES permit data. This role is crucial as it aligns with the CITES Secretariat's ongoing efforts to enhance the electronic systems used for permit data exchange. The consultant will evaluate various aspects of the proposed Hub model, including technical, financial, operational, and legal considerations. The outcome of this assessment will provide essential insights and recommendations to the CITES Standing Committee and CITES Parties, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding the future of electronic CITES permit exchanges. The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Outreach and Projects Unit of the CITES Secretariat, ensuring that the assessment is comprehensive and aligns with existing frameworks and systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a thorough study assessing the feasibility of a voluntary global Hub model for eCITES permit data exchange, covering various critical topics such as: a. Evaluation of existing electronic Hub models, including the ePhyto Hub for the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). b. Analysis of operational modalities for establishing the Hub, considering the integration with existing national electronic CITES permit systems and alignment with Customs and border procedures. c. Financial analysis of the Hub's development and maintenance, including ICT infrastructure and associated costs. d. Assessment of cybersecurity requirements for data processing and exchange among CITES Parties. e. Comparison of the voluntary Global Hub model with Point-to-Point (P2P) models and other methods for data exchange, focusing on financial, technical, and operational aspects. f. Detailed analysis of alternatives for exchanging CITES permit information, providing recommendations for a sustainable and scalable model.
• Produce a draft technical report based on desk research, structured interviews, and consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the CITES Standing Committee Working Group on Electronic Systems and Information Technology.
• Finalize the technical report incorporating feedback from stakeholders through various consultation methods.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in information systems, economics, international relations, sustainable development, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of the complexities involved in trade facilitation and the development of digital solutions for sustainable trade.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as information systems, economics, international relations, or sustainable development. A first-level university degree may be considered if accompanied by sufficient relevant experience, highlighting the importance of both education and practical knowledge in this role.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of experience in trade facilitation is required, particularly in collaboration with international organizations or governments to develop digital solutions for sustainable trade. Experience with the IPPC ePhyto hub and knowledge of electronic data standards for international trade are desirable. Candidates should also have a proven track record in preparing technical reports and presentations, as well as conducting research and analysis related to CITES stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the CITES Secretariat. Proficiency in French and Spanish is also beneficial, as these languages are used within the organization, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for 60 days over a period of six months. There are no fees associated with the application process, and the United Nations emphasizes that it does not charge applicants at any stage of recruitment. This role is crucial for the ongoing development of electronic systems for CITES permit data exchange, and candidates should be prepared for a comprehensive assessment process.