UNEP Ghost Gear Project Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy. The organization aims to strengthen the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP's Ecosystems Division is involved in various initiatives, including the management of marine and coastal environments, and operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on sustainable development and environmental protection.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Ghost Gear Project Manager will be responsible for providing day-to-day technical and operational direction for the project delivery. This position involves formal supervision of UNEP staff and delegated authority for financial, administrative, procurement, and contractual approvals, which will remain with the COBSEA Coordinator. The consultant will lead the Project Management Team and oversee the technical, operational, partnership, monitoring, and reporting components of the project, which is focused on advancing sustainable management and recycling of abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear. The project aims to strengthen fishing gear management systems, promote recycling, and reduce marine plastic pollution while enhancing fisheries productivity and supporting sustainable coastal livelihoods. The consultant will coordinate with various stakeholders, including governments, donors, and technical partners, to ensure successful project implementation and compliance with the approved project document and workplan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will perform a variety of tasks, including planning, managing, and providing technical direction across all project outcomes. They will coordinate and oversee the Project Management Team, consultants, implementing partners, contractors, and project deliverables. The consultant will manage partnerships and coordinate with the donor, Korean technical partners, participating governments, and other stakeholders. They will monitor project progress, budget, results, risks, and compliance with the approved project document and workplan. Additionally, the consultant will prepare technical, financial, and donor reports, including required documentation in Korean. This role requires strong leadership and organizational skills to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's level or higher) in environmental management, development studies, environmental sciences, or a related field. Equivalent academic qualifications may be considered. A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in marine and coastal environmental issues, including project coordination or management, is required. Experience managing donor-funded projects, including work planning, budgeting, monitoring, reporting, and compliance, is also necessary. Additionally, candidates should have experience in marine litter and plastic pollution, particularly from sea-based sources. Desirable qualifications include experience facilitating knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, or regional learning exchanges, as well as working experience in a multicultural environment, including the United Nations. Previous involvement in and knowledge of COBSEA’s work is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's level or higher) in environmental management, development studies, environmental sciences, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with equivalent academic qualifications may also be considered, indicating that a strong educational background in relevant fields is essential for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in marine and coastal environmental issues, including project coordination or management. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing donor-funded projects, which includes work planning, budgeting, monitoring, reporting, and ensuring compliance with project requirements. Experience in marine litter and plastic pollution, particularly from sea-based sources, is also a critical requirement for this role. Furthermore, experience in facilitating knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives is desirable, as is working in a multicultural environment, particularly within the United Nations framework.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is required for this position. Knowledge of other languages from the East Asian Seas region is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate better communication and collaboration with regional stakeholders and partners involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the project is 12 months, and the consultant will be working under the direct supervision of the COBSEA Coordinator. The position is not specified as full-time or part-time, but it involves significant responsibilities in project management and coordination. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.