Technical Advisor - Environmental Facilitator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it has been operational since its establishment in 197

• UNEP operates in over 150 countries and has a diverse workforce that includes experts in various fields related to environmental science, policy, and management. The organization focuses on a wide range of issues including climate change, biodiversity, pollution, and sustainable development, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor - Environmental Facilitator will play a pivotal role in advancing the work of the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership, which aims to support the development and implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs). This position is crucial for facilitating the identification and prioritization of biodiversity needs within the host country, mobilizing support from various stakeholders, and fostering collaboration among government institutions, civil society, and international partners. The facilitator will be embedded within relevant ministries or regional institutions, acting as a bridge between the host government and the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership. The role requires a deep understanding of biodiversity conservation, project management, and stakeholder engagement, as well as the ability to navigate complex political landscapes to ensure effective implementation of NBSAPs aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The facilitator will also be responsible for monitoring progress, providing ongoing support, and ensuring that the initiatives are aligned with national priorities and commitments.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assess NBSAP Landscape: Identify and monitor country/region-specific biodiversity priorities, capacity needs/demands, and implementation challenges. Conduct high-level mapping of stakeholders to identify key players, their motivations, commitments, and potential synergies. Facilitate national, country-specific, multi-stakeholder dialogues. Develop a comprehensive work plan outlining goals, objectives, activities, and timelines for NBSAP implementation support together with the host government/institution. Monitor country/region-specific NBSAP priorities and implementation progress, providing ongoing support and guidance as needed.
• Mobilize Support: Identify specific needs and requests on behalf of the host country/region, such as technical capacity, financial resources, and increased political will. Assist the host government/institution in designing and developing specific requests for support through a Whole of Government & Whole of Society approach. Submit requests for support to relevant stakeholders and monitor the implementation of the support packages. Identify and support resource mobilization efforts.
• Coordinate Action: Foster alignment and collaboration among existing and emerging initiatives to ensure a Whole of Government and Whole of Society approach. Support the strengthening and monitoring of existing national structures for NBSAP implementation. Share global best practices, guidance, and tools in the country/region while facilitating knowledge exchange opportunities.
• Monitoring and Progress Controls: Maintain regular communication with designated host country National Focal Points and the Country Engagement Coordinator of the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership. Prepare periodic reports on the status of NBSAP implementation, including key milestones, lessons learned, and recommendations for improvement. Conduct annual performance evaluations in collaboration with the Country Engagement Coordinator and national Focal Points.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental science, biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, or a related discipline is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in the same fields combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Candidates must demonstrate strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to mobilize support across diverse stakeholders. Experience working with government institutions and civil society organizations is essential, as is familiarity with NBSAPs and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental science, biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, or a related discipline. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in these fields, combined with two additional years of relevant experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7-10 years of relevant experience in biodiversity conservation, project management, facilitation, stakeholder engagement, or related areas. A proven track record of working effectively with government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners is essential. Previous experience with NBSAPs and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is required, along with strong communication and negotiation skills. Experience in developing and coordinating international cooperation projects is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, while fluency in Spanish is desirable. Additional languages relevant to the country or region are considered an advantage, as they can enhance communication and collaboration with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as a Senior Level role (ICS 11) and is offered on a contract basis (ICA - LICA - Specialist - Regular) for a duration of 12 months. The application deadline is set for midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date of 27-Sep-202

• UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups. The recruitment process includes background checks to ensure compliance with UN standards and policies.