Senior EU Policy Engagement Expert

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 been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy for over 50 years. With a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental issues. UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) is a strategic partnership between the United Nations and over 500 banks, insurers, and investors, shaping the international sustainable finance agenda for over 34 years. UNEP FI promotes sustainable finance and helps the financial industry align with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals, thereby driving the transition to a sustainable economy.

Job Overview:
The Senior EU Policy Engagement Expert will contribute to UNEP FI’s strategic engagement with European Union policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions. The role focuses on advancing the bankability and financing of the transition to a sustainable, competitive, and inclusive European economy. The expert will operationalize two main activities: building a value proposition and toolkit for EU sectoral policy engagement for banks, and promoting innovative finance solutions that bridge the gap between EU industrial policies and the financial sector's capacity to mobilize capital. This position requires a deep understanding of EU policies, financial mechanisms, and the ability to facilitate structured dialogues between banks and policymakers. The expert will also ensure that human rights and gender equality principles are integrated into UNEP FI’s work, aligning financial practices with broader sustainability goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior EU Policy Engagement Expert will be responsible for designing and implementing a structured value proposition for banks’ engagement in EU sectoral policy processes. This includes developing toolkits, guidance, and engagement frameworks. The expert will provide technical advice on identifying and prioritizing key EU sectoral policies, translating them into actionable financing pathways for banks. Duties also involve coordinating multi-stakeholder dialogues to strengthen policy-finance alignment, developing outputs such as sectoral policy briefs and engagement toolkits, and ensuring coherence between policy engagement and financing realities. The expert will engage with EU institutions and work closely with UNEP FI teams to deliver high-quality outputs that support the transition to a sustainable economy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in finance, law, economics, business administration, or international relations. A bachelor’s degree may be accepted in lieu of a master’s degree if the candidate has at least 12 years of relevant experience. Additionally, candidates should have at least ten years of professional experience in investment and/or lending activities, development finance, banking regulation, and sustainable finance. Experience in the banking sector, particularly within a European policy context, is highly advantageous. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, along with a professional network among financial sector regulators and policymakers, are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in finance, law, economics, business administration, or international relations is required for this position. Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree may be considered if the candidate has 12 years of relevant experience. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in financial principles, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable development practices, equipping the candidate with the necessary knowledge to navigate complex financial and policy landscapes.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of professional experience in investment and/or lending activities, development finance, and sustainable finance. Candidates should have at least five years of experience in the banking sector, particularly in a European policy and banking setting. This experience should demonstrate a deep understanding of financial mechanisms, regulatory environments, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders in the financial and policy sectors.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory as it is the working language of UNEP FI. Knowledge of additional languages such as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, or other United Nations languages is considered an asset. Proficiency in multiple languages can enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders and facilitate engagement in international contexts.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to be remote and has a duration of four months. The consultant will report to the Head of UNEP FI and work closely with the Policy Lead and other team members. The role may require travel up to once per quarter. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring process. The consultant will also be expected to contribute to UNEP FI’s Social Action Plan, integrating relevant measures into their work.