Investment Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS). This organization is dedicated to fostering the development aspirations set forth in the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States (ABAS). The UN-OHRLLS plays a crucial role in supporting the development of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Centre of Excellence (CoE), which is a key initiative aimed at enhancing the capabilities and resilience of SIDS through innovative practices, research, and collaboration. The CoE is located in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, and is designed to support SIDS in addressing challenges and achieving resilient prosperity. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on the unique needs of small island developing states and their sustainable development goals.

Job Overview:
The Investment Specialist will play a pivotal role in supporting the implementation of the Island Investment Forum (IIF) as part of the SIDS Centre of Excellence (CoE). This position involves the operationalization of the IIF, which is a key initiative under the ABAS aimed at enhancing the capabilities of SIDS. The consultant will be responsible for drafting and finalizing various strategic documents, including a 12-month workplan, PowerPoint presentations for the IIF launch, and engagement plans for pilot SIDS. The role requires collaboration with CoE staff and stakeholders to ensure the successful launch of the IIF at the SIDS Global Business Network Forum. The consultant will also develop training materials and facilitate capacity-building activities for CoE staff on foreign direct investment (FDI) policy and investment promotion. The overarching goal is to support SIDS in achieving sustainable development through effective investment facilitation and stakeholder engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: drafting and finalizing a 12-month workplan for the consultant and CoE staff; creating a PowerPoint presentation outlining the IIF vision and implementation workplan; developing an engagement plan for pilot SIDS; successfully launching the IIF at the SIDS-GBN Forum; preparing training materials for CoE staff on FDI policy; facilitating brainstorming sessions with key stakeholders; delivering training and operational sessions for CoE staff; drafting an operational model for the IIF; creating guidelines for National Focal Points (NFPs); establishing a development partner database; and preparing a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework with Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). The consultant will also be responsible for coaching and capacity transfer to CoE staff, ensuring they can independently support SIDS beyond the consultancy period.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as economics, policy development, governance, operations management, or public finance. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and multi-stakeholder institutional development is required. Strong knowledge of investment facilitation and financing mechanisms, particularly in the context of small island developing states or developing economies, is essential. Proven experience in managing development partnerships and governance structures, as well as a demonstrated background in capacity building and operational systems design, is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in areas related to economics, policy development, governance, operations management, public finance, or a related field. In cases where candidates possess a first-level university degree, they may still qualify if they have sufficient relevant experience that compensates for the lack of an advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and multi-stakeholder institutional development. Candidates should have a strong understanding of investment facilitation and financing mechanisms, particularly in the context of small island developing states or developing economies. Experience in setting up or managing development partnerships, governance structures, and blended finance mechanisms is also essential. Furthermore, candidates should have a demonstrated background in capacity building, knowledge transfer, and operational systems design, as well as experience working with or advising SIDS governments and development institutions.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders, as well as for the preparation of various documents and presentations related to the IIF and its implementation.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to be remote and has a duration of 12 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization is committed to ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process, and it does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.