High-Level Strategic Advisor, NBSAP Accelerator Partnership

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. Established in 1972, UNEP has a mission to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff dedicated to various environmental initiatives.

Job Overview:
The High-Level Strategic Advisor will play a crucial role in enhancing the political visibility and resource mobilization efforts of the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership. This position is designed for a senior representative who will engage with political leaders, funding partners, and global stakeholders to elevate the implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) on a global scale. The advisor will provide strategic advice on political engagement, partnerships, and resource mobilization, particularly in the lead-up to significant events such as CBD COP1

• The role involves working closely with the Global Coordination Unit and the Steering Committee to identify and advance high-level political priorities and opportunities, ensuring that the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership is effectively positioned to support countries in achieving their biodiversity goals by 2030 and beyond.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic Political Engagement: Provide strategic advice to the Global Coordination Unit and Co-Chairs on political priorities and engagement strategies. Prepare for ministerial dialogues, Steering Committee meetings, and international biodiversity events. Identify emerging political opportunities and advise on approaches to strengthen country ownership for NBSAP implementation. Represent the Partnership at high-level meetings and consultations as needed.
• Strategic Advisory Role: Offer high-level strategic advice to ensure alignment between political engagement and resource mobilization efforts. Guide the GCU in preparing for high-level engagements, ensuring coherence in messaging and expected outcomes. Contribute to strengthening coherence across the Accelerator’s global efforts.
• Partnership & Resource Mobilization: Engage closely with Accelerator members and donors to deepen engagement and expand partnerships. Lead efforts to solicit support from traditional and non-traditional donors for long-term funding. Foster strategic relationships to enable scaled support for NBSAP implementation.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree in biodiversity conservation, international development, environmental science, economics, management, or behavioral sciences is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in establishing inter-relationships among international organizations and national governments, particularly in biodiversity conservation and environmental management, is required. At least five years of experience managing international programs in environment-related fields is also required, along with a strong track record in raising funds for international initiatives.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as biodiversity conservation, international development, environmental science, economics, management, or behavioral sciences. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be considered. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of biodiversity policies and international environmental agreements.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in the field of international biodiversity conservation and environmental management. Candidates should have experience in establishing relationships among international organizations and national governments, particularly in the context of biodiversity policy and planning. Additionally, at least five years of experience in managing and coordinating international programs, building strategic alliances, and resource mobilization is essential. A track record of international experience in implementing Multilateral Environment Agreements is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also required. Working knowledge of another UN language, particularly Spanish or German, is considered an advantage and may enhance the candidate's profile for this position.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for a duration of five months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This ensures that the recruitment process is transparent and accessible to all qualified candidates.