Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass a wide range of environmental issues, working with various stakeholders including governments, civil society, and the private sector. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental issues at the international level.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer position is situated within UNEP’s Climate Change Division, specifically focusing on the Climate Finance Unit. This role is pivotal in coordinating the implementation of the 'Innovative Finance for the Amazon, Cerrado and Chaco (IFACC)' initiative, which aims to transform commodity markets to prevent deforestation and habitat conversion while ensuring sustainable food production. The incumbent will work closely with international partners, including The Nature Conservancy and the World Economic Forum, to develop and implement strategies that promote sustainable land use and agricultural practices. The position requires a strong understanding of sustainable finance, project management, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to drive the initiative's objectives forward. The officer will be responsible for monitoring project implementation, preparing reports, and ensuring effective communication with donors and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management Officer include coordinating all actions necessary for the effective implementation of the IFACC initiative. This involves monitoring project implementation at all stages, analyzing difficulties, and initiating remedial actions. The officer will prepare and review project documents, manage recruitment of experts, and oversee procurement processes. Additionally, the officer will lead activities related to catalytic capital and agricultural transition finance, ensuring timely delivery of all UNEP responsibilities. This includes internal coordination among UNEP personnel, engaging with stakeholders, and contributing to unlocking more catalytic capital for agricultural transitions. The officer will also be responsible for donor engagement, ensuring timely reporting on project progress and financial status, and seeking synergies with other UNEP projects globally. Furthermore, the officer will collect and analyze data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in sustainable finance, sustainable agricultural supply chains, and project management. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in these areas is required, with at least two years at the international level. Experience working with private finance institutions and engaging with corporates in the agricultural supply chain is essential. Familiarity with United Nations entities is desirable, as is experience in data analytics or related fields. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizing skills, and effective communication abilities.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in sustainable finance, economics, business analytics, environmental science, agricultural economics, or a related quantitative field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable finance, sustainable agricultural supply chains, private sector engagement, or project management. At least two years of this experience must be at the international level. Candidates should have experience working with private finance institutions and engaging with corporates in the agricultural supply chain. Experience with United Nations entities is also desirable, along with two or more years in data analytics or related areas.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is limited to the United Nations Environment Programme and is for an initial period of one year, subject to extension based on the availability of funding and the continued existence of the mandate. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Kenya. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits applicable to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.