GCF Liaison Officer for Burundi

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was established in 2010 by the 194 countries that are Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It is recognized as the world’s largest dedicated climate fund, focusing on financing transformative climate projects across developing countries. The GCF aims to empower these nations to effectively respond to and combat climate change while promoting sustainable development within their communities. The organization mobilizes public and private sector investments through a diverse range of financing instruments and strengthens the capacity of developing countries to undertake climate action through its Readiness and Preparatory Support Programme. This initiative equips countries with the necessary resources to build foundational skills and capacities to effectively secure and manage climate financing, thereby enhancing their ability to address climate challenges.

Job Overview:
The GCF Liaison Officer will serve as the primary liaison between the GCF Secretariat and the designated country, providing essential support to the National Designated Authority (NDA) or relevant agency in all matters related to GCF climate action. This role requires close coordination with various stakeholders involved in GCF activities within the country to ensure seamless execution of programming, accreditation, readiness support conceptualization, project preparation, and implementation. The GCF Liaison Officer will be instrumental in enhancing the capacity of the NDA and relevant agencies to plan, develop, and implement climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives, thereby facilitating access to climate finance and achieving national climate objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The GCF Liaison Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities to ensure the successful implementation of the placement scheme. These include engaging with the NDA to co-develop draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for readiness support, facilitating stakeholder engagement through effective communication with relevant country stakeholders, assisting in the completion of the Financial Management Capacity Assessment (FMCA) form, and supporting the NDA with adaptive management requests. Additionally, the officer will contribute to capacity-building efforts by imparting skills and knowledge to the NDA and relevant stakeholders, providing guidance on GCF policies and procedures, assisting in the development of project ideas and funding proposals, and maintaining regular communication with accredited entities to report to the GCF Secretariat. The officer will also support the NDA in organizing events to showcase GCF results and prepare country portfolio results reporting as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university-level degree in climate change/environmental science, agronomy, climate economics/finance, engineering, project finance, or a closely related discipline. They should have at least eight years of experience in the public and/or private sector with a demonstrated focus on climate investment and financing initiatives for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Proven experience in institutional strengthening and capacity-building within developing economies is essential, along with at least three years of experience in successfully developing climate change investment proposals. Familiarity with the GCF, including operational mechanisms and funding modalities, will be considered an asset. Candidates must also demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, excellent communication abilities, and a commitment to ethical standards.

Educational Background:
A university-level degree in a relevant field such as climate change/environmental science, agronomy, climate economics/finance, engineering, or project finance is required. This educational background should provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively engage in climate investment and financing initiatives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of eight years of relevant experience in the public and/or private sector, with a strong focus on climate investment and financing initiatives. This experience should include a proven track record in institutional strengthening and capacity-building, particularly within developing economies, as well as experience in developing climate change investment proposals and understanding the local context and challenges in Burundi.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in the official languages of Burundi, Kirundi and French, or other United Nations languages is highly desirable. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and for the successful execution of the role's responsibilities.

Additional Notes:
The GCF Liaison Officer will be based in Gitega, the political capital of Burundi, and will operate from the offices of the NDA or relevant agency. The initial assignment is for a maximum of 180 working days over a period of 11 months and 29 days, with the possibility of extension based on performance evaluation and continued need. Preference will be given to nationals or residents of Burundi. The daily rate offered for this consultancy is USD 13

• If a civil servant or government employee is selected, written confirmation must be provided that the individual will be on leave without pay and relieved of all official duties during the placement. The selected expert must comply with contractual obligations to avoid any conflict of interest.