Portfolio Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) is an organization focused on advancing the health of coral reefs through strategic funding and partnerships. It operates globally, with a mission to support reef-positive programming and sustainable development initiatives. The GFCR Secretariat leads global coordination and strategy implementation, working closely with the UN Global Team and various stakeholders to achieve its objectives. The organization is committed to fostering partnerships that enhance the resilience of coral reef ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. The GFCR is supported by UNOPS, which provides administrative and operational services to ensure effective delivery of its programs.

Job Overview:
The Portfolio Specialist position is integral to the GFCR Secretariat, providing essential technical, analytical, and portfolio management support. This role is designed to enhance the development, oversight, and performance of the GFCR programme portfolio. The Portfolio Specialist will be responsible for reviewing programme proposals, monitoring portfolio performance, measuring impact, and developing partnerships. The position requires a strong focus on quality assurance, monitoring and reporting, and integrating lessons learned into adaptive programme management. The Portfolio Specialist will serve as a key technical focal point, ensuring effective delivery across various workstreams and contributing to evidence-based decision-making among stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct technical reviews of programme proposals and concept notes, ensuring alignment with GFCR objectives and compliance with relevant policies and standards.
• Develop and apply monitoring frameworks to assess portfolio performance, ESG compliance, and environmental and social impact.
• Produce progress reports, investment updates, and lessons learned for stakeholders.
• Lead specific programmatic partnerships or initiatives, providing technical advice and support to investment and implementing partners.
• Identify policy-driven issues and synthesize best practices linked to programme goals.
• Establish and strengthen advocacy networks and implement high-impact advocacy with key stakeholders.
• Contribute to knowledge networks and communities of practice, ensuring integrated support for policy development.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master's degree or equivalent in Environmental Sciences, Development Studies, International Relations, Programme or Project Management, or Economics.
• A Bachelor's degree in the aforementioned areas with 2 years of additional relevant experience is acceptable in lieu of a Master's degree.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience in project management, preferably in blue economy, climate, environment, or development sectors.
• Proven experience in project/programme portfolio management and coordination, including project monitoring and quality assurance.
• Track record of managing donor-funded projects, especially with UN agencies or similar organizations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Environmental Sciences, Development Studies, International Relations, Programme or Project Management, or Economics. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in these areas combined with 2 years of additional relevant experience is acceptable. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage and support the GFCR programme portfolio.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a Master's degree, or 7 years for those with a Bachelor's degree. Experience should be in project management, particularly within the blue economy, climate, environment, or development sectors. Candidates should have a strong background in project/programme portfolio management and coordination, including monitoring and quality assurance. A proven track record of managing donor-funded projects, particularly with UN agencies, is essential. Desired experience includes designing and implementing multi-sectoral programmes, engaging with private sector and government stakeholders, and conducting evaluations or impact assessments in relevant sectors.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which the GFCR operates. Strong communication skills in English are essential for effective collaboration with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is ICA - IICA - Regular, with a contract level of IICA

• The position is classified at a mid-level seniority, specifically ICS Level 1
• The duration of the contract is one year, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The application deadline is set for midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date of 19-Aug-202
• UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Background checks are conducted for all final candidates to ensure compliance with organizational standards.