UNDP Project Specialist on Investable Nature Project Pipeline

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, providing expert advice, training, and support to develop local capacity. The organization is committed to eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities through sustainable development initiatives. UNDP's mission is to help countries achieve sustainable development by integrating economic, social, and environmental dimensions into their policies and programs. The organization emphasizes the importance of partnerships and collaboration with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Project Specialist on Investable Nature Project Pipeline will play a crucial role within the UNDP Global Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) team, focusing on the development of a pipeline of investable projects aimed at financing nature. This position requires collaboration with the UNDP Nature Investment team and involves leading efforts to construct a private sector-related pipeline for nature-positive projects. The Specialist will provide global technical assistance, enhance partnerships with the private sector, train national teams, and ensure quality control over national pipelines. The role is vital for advancing UNDP's strategic objectives related to biodiversity financing and sustainable development, particularly in the context of the organization's 2026-2029 Strategic Plan, which aims to accelerate structural transformations that promote poverty eradication and sustainable, climate-aligned development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Specialist include:

• Developing standardized investment frameworks by designing and finalizing methodological frameworks, templates, and criteria for pilot countries to identify and prepare investable nature-positive projects.
• Providing technical support and quality assurance to country teams, including project sourcing, pre-feasibility analysis, and financial structuring.
• Developing guidance on creating an enabling environment for private sector investment in nature and establishing national working groups for better engagement.
• Supporting national enabling environment studies to identify barriers and incentives for attracting private investment in nature finance.
• Analyzing investment gaps and risks to understand the appetite of local and international private capital for emerging project types.
• Leading the design of a global investment matchmaking platform, including defining its scope and key features.
• Coordinating with various partners to ensure the pipeline strategy leverages existing knowledge and project pipelines.
• Designing and delivering capacity-building workshops in pilot countries and capturing lessons learned for dissemination.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the position include:

• An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Management, Finance, Economics, or a related field, or a first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional work experience in the finance sector, development banks, private equity, or impact investment related to environment and sustainable finance.
• Proven experience in managing relationships with the private sector and various types of investors, including social and environmental impact investors.
• Experience in developing a pipeline of bankable projects in developing countries and familiarity with UNDP or other international organizations is desirable.
• Experience in designing investable projects in sectors such as agriculture, forestry, tourism, fisheries, or water is also desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Management, Finance, Economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned fields, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of a master’s degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills required for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional work experience for candidates with a Master’s degree, or 7 years for those with a bachelor’s degree. This experience should be in the finance sector, development banks, private equity, or impact investment, with a focus on environmental, nature, climate, or sustainable finance. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing relationships with the private sector and various types of investors, as well as experience in developing a pipeline of bankable projects in developing countries.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages such as French and/or Spanish will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and operate effectively in various contexts.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The incumbent will report directly to the UNDP BIOFIN Project Manager and will collaborate with global teams, national teams, UNDP Country Offices, and various stakeholders. The role requires the incumbent to provide their own workstation and ensure access to a stable and reliable internet connection. Given the global nature of the consultations involved, the incumbent should be prepared to accommodate different time zones in their availability. The position emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, and UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel can thrive and contribute to the organization's mission.