Senior Programme Manager - Climate Action

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services), which was established to support the implementation of projects and initiatives that contribute to sustainable development and humanitarian efforts. UNOPS operates globally, providing project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to various UN entities and partners. The organization is committed to ensuring that its operations align with the United Nations' goals, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNOPS has a diverse workforce that includes employees from various nationalities and backgrounds, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity. The Executive Office of UNOPS is responsible for setting the strategic direction and ensuring accountability for the organization's performance and integrity, overseeing the implementation of its 4-year Strategic Plan, and engaging with Member States and other stakeholders to advance UN objectives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Manager for Climate Action will play a crucial role in leading and managing the Climate Action Programme at UNOPS. This position requires a strong background in programme and project management, along with technical expertise in climate action, particularly within the context of the UN system and its development partners. The incumbent will be responsible for translating the 5-year Programme Implementation Plan into actionable annual plans, managing the full lifecycle of the programme from planning to completion, and ensuring that the programme aligns with UNOPS' strategic priorities and Climate Strategy. The role also involves engaging with external partners to promote climate-compatible services and ensuring effective communication of UNOPS' climate action results. The Senior Programme Manager will lead a dedicated team, fostering a culture of high performance and collaboration while managing stakeholder relationships and addressing risks and issues that may impact the programme's success.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Manager include:

• Programme Execution: Develop coherent annual plans based on the 5-year Programme Implementation Plan, manage the full lifecycle of the programme, set timelines, manage budgets, and allocate resources.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and motivate the Climate Action Programme team, oversee recruitment and performance management, and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Serve as the primary contact for internal and external stakeholders, support the Chief Climate Officer in connecting UNOPS with the broader climate agenda, and coordinate with technical experts and partners to ensure timely deliverables.
• Risk and Issue Management: Identify and manage risks and issues proactively, report progress to senior leadership, and find solutions to challenges that arise.
• Technical Expertise: Provide specialized knowledge in decarbonization of operations, prepare high-level briefing notes and policy papers, and act as a technical resource to support regional delivery of reduction targets.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Senior Programme Manager position include:

• Proven experience in climate science, international climate policy, and intergovernmental agreements on climate change.
• Leadership experience in change management, preferably in an international context.
• Strong programme and project management skills, with a focus on climate action.
• Ability to engage effectively with scientific and policy communities on climate change issues.
• Experience working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations is desired, along with experience in development or humanitarian contexts.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Environmental Science, Climate Change, or a related discipline with at least 9 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in any of the aforementioned fields with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage the Climate Action Programme.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in relevant fields. Specifically, candidates should have substantial work experience in climate science, international climate policy, and engagement with scientific and policy communities regarding climate change. Leadership experience in change management, particularly in an international context, is essential. Additionally, experience in multicultural environments or UN system organizations, especially in developing countries, is highly desirable, as is experience in development or humanitarian contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNOPS. Proficiency in French and Spanish is considered desirable, as these languages can enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners in the climate action space.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at the senior level (ICS 11) and is a full-time role under the ICA - IICA - Regular contract type. The contract level is IICA 3, and the position is ongoing, with a posting start date of July 31, 2026, and an application deadline of August 16, 202

• UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of abusive conduct. Background checks are conducted for all final candidates to ensure compliance with these standards.