System Development Consultant

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, ESCAP focuses on fostering sustainable development through evidence-based policy research, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, working closely with member states to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. ESCAP's Macroeconomic Policy and Financing for Development Division (MPFD) plays a crucial role in supporting member states in their efforts to enhance financial sector resilience and mobilize financing aligned with sustainable development goals. The organization is committed to empowering countries to strengthen their sustainable finance ecosystems and improve their reporting and disclosure practices related to sustainability.

Job Overview:
The System Development Consultant will be an integral part of the Financing for Development Section (FFDS) within the MPFD at UN ESCAP. This role involves the design, development, and operationalization of a digital sustainability reporting and disclosure system specifically for the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC). The consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive needs assessment, engaging with national counterparts, and defining the functional requirements necessary for the system. The ultimate goal is to create a user-friendly platform that aligns with international sustainability reporting standards and meets local regulatory needs. The consultant will also facilitate capacity-building sessions to ensure effective use of the system by government officials and market participants, thereby enhancing their understanding of sustainability reporting practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including leading the design and development of the sustainability reporting and disclosure system for SERC. This includes conducting initial needs assessments, developing system architecture, and ensuring the system incorporates relevant international standards such as ISSB, SASB, and GRI. The consultant will translate sustainability reporting requirements into practical digital workflows and templates, prepare technical and user documentation, and test the system in collaboration with national counterparts. Additionally, the consultant will deliver monthly capacity-building webinars, develop training materials, and provide ongoing technical support during the rollout and handover phase of the system. The consultant's performance will be evaluated based on the quality and timeliness of deliverables, as well as the effectiveness of capacity-building sessions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as sustainable finance, finance, economics, accounting, information systems, computer science, business administration, or environmental management. A strong background in sustainability reporting and disclosure system development is essential. Candidates should have at least three years of professional experience in leading the development of digital systems for companies, regulatory bodies, or financial institutions. Familiarity with major sustainability reporting standards and local regulatory frameworks is crucial, as is the ability to translate these standards into practical digital solutions. Strong interpersonal, drafting, facilitation, and coordination skills are required, along with the ability to work collaboratively in multicultural environments.

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

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of three 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 public institutions, demonstrating a strong understanding of sustainability reporting standards and frameworks.

Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

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 final handover of the system to relevant government agencies. The position is remote, and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further consideration. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.