Consultant to Support Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFFs)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) is a vital part of the United Nations Secretariat, responsible for promoting sustainable development through economic and social policy analysis, capacity building, and technical assistance. Established to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, UNDESA works with member states and various stakeholders to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability. The organization operates globally, with a focus on supporting developing countries and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in their efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDESA has a diverse workforce and collaborates with various UN agencies, international organizations, and civil society to address pressing global challenges.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in advising Fiji on the development and execution of a financing strategy that aligns with its sustainable development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This position involves providing tailored technical assistance and country-specific advice to enhance Fiji's capacities related to Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFFs). The consultant will leverage guidance materials from the Inter-Agency Task Force on Financing for Development (IATF) and insights from analytical work conducted by development partners. The consultant will also receive mentorship and technical support from UNDESA/FSDO, ensuring that the strategies developed are effective and aligned with Fiji's national development goals. The consultant will be based in Fiji and will work closely with the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development & Statistics, contributing to the advancement of the Financing Strategy under the INFF process, in line with Fiji's National Development Plan (NDP) 2025–2029 and Vision 2050.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including providing technical advice on the development and refinement of the Financing Strategy, reviewing existing drafts, and supporting the Ministry in finalizing the strategy. Specific tasks include formulating a Risk Management and Climate-Resilience Financing Matrix, conducting quality assurance of costing data, and developing a capacity-development plan. The consultant will also engage with various stakeholders, including national authorities and international financial institutions, to ensure alignment and support for the INFF process. Additionally, the consultant will participate in peer exchange activities, contribute to knowledge sharing among SIDS, and support the monitoring and evaluation of the project. Regular reporting and participation in technical backstopping sessions will also be required to ensure progress and address challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in economics, development studies, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree in the relevant discipline combined with two additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of 10 years of experience in financing for development issues, particularly in a SIDS context, is required. Desired qualifications include experience in public financial management, climate finance, and national development planning, as well as a proven ability to engage high-level officials and facilitate stakeholder dialogues. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to prioritize and control resources effectively.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in economics, development studies, or a related academic discipline is required for this position. Candidates with a first university degree in the relevant field may qualify if they have two additional years of relevant experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively advise on financing strategies and sustainable development initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in financing for development issues, particularly within the context of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Candidates should have a strong background in public financial management, climate finance, and long-term national development planning. Experience in engaging with high-level officials and facilitating dialogues with various stakeholders is also desired, as is the ability to build partnerships and coordinate efforts among different entities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as French, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 10 months, and the consultant will be based in Fiji, working closely with the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development & Statistics. The role involves full-time engagement and requires the consultant to actively participate in various activities related to the INFF process. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.