Int. Consultant for pipeline development - Climate and Sustainable Finance Hub

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, sustainable development, climate change, and disaster resilience. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, including experts in various fields, to implement its programs and initiatives effectively.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for pipeline development within the Climate and Sustainable Finance Hub is designed to support the establishment and operationalization of a Country Investment Platform and Project Preparation Facility (PPF). The consultant will work under the supervision of the Country Office Economist and the Chief Technical Adviser of the Hub, collaborating closely with various teams and stakeholders, including the regional Climate Finance Network team and the Inclusive Growth Team. The primary objective of this role is to design and implement the institutional and procedural framework necessary for the Hub's services, ensuring effective prioritization of sectors, screening of concepts, and selection of projects for pipeline development. The consultant will also be responsible for translating national policy priorities into an investment pipeline, focusing on adaptation-oriented financing in sectors such as sustainable agriculture and ecotourism, while remaining open to other opportunities aligned with Lao PDR's priorities. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of climate finance, project development, and stakeholder engagement, as well as the ability to draft and finalize bankable projects that meet the standards of targeted financing sources.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties and responsibilities include:

• Designing and operationalizing the Country Investment Platform and PPF function, which involves establishing the institutional and procedural foundation for the Hub's services. This includes drafting project preparation functions and processes, investor coordination, and approval processes across various ministries and stakeholders.
• Developing standard operating procedures for project intake, screening, prioritization, safeguards review, disclosure, quality assurance, and escalation of policy bottlenecks.
• Preparing draft operating guidelines that include conflict-of-interest provisions, transparency principles, and periodic platform review procedures.
• Conducting targeted design consultations with potential Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), and private sector representatives.
• Mapping existing investment pipelines and preparing a shortlist of priority projects for investor-facing profiles.
• Developing two bankable projects for prioritized adaptation-oriented initiatives, ensuring they are structured to meet the standards of targeted financing sources.
• Facilitating presentations of the projects to the Advisory Group to ensure alignment with national priorities.
• Piloting a structured matchmaking mechanism between project owners and financial institutions, including domestic banks, DFIs, MDBs, private investors, and climate finance providers. The assignment is expected to span 50 working days, during which the consultant will engage with various stakeholders and produce high-quality deliverables that contribute to the overall objectives of the Climate and Sustainable Finance Hub.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a range of qualifications, including:

• A strong background in climate finance, sustainable development, or a related field.
• Proven experience in project development, particularly in the context of climate adaptation and sustainable finance.
• Familiarity with the institutional landscape in Laos, including relevant ministries and development partners.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex policy priorities into actionable investment strategies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in drafting high-quality project proposals and reports that meet international standards.
• A demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively within tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
Candidates for this position should possess at least a master's degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, finance, economics, or public policy. A Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree is preferred, particularly for candidates with a focus on climate finance or sustainable development. Additionally, relevant certifications or training in project management or climate finance would be advantageous.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5-7 years of professional experience in climate finance, project development, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or development partners in the context of climate adaptation and sustainable finance is highly desirable. Familiarity with the specific challenges and opportunities in Laos, as well as experience in stakeholder engagement and consultation processes, will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the consultant will be required to draft reports and communicate with international stakeholders. Knowledge of Lao language is an advantage, as it will facilitate engagement with local partners and stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region or international development may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an individual contractor role, and the assignment is expected to last for 50 working days. The consultant will be required to submit proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. The role is open to both national and international candidates, and the compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. The consultant will be expected to work closely with UNDP staff and stakeholders, ensuring that all deliverables align with the organization's objectives and standards.