Senior Programme Management Assistant

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. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Ecosystem Division focuses on the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of ecosystems, working with Member States and partners to strengthen resilience and catalyze sustainable social and economic transformation for biodiversity, people, and peace. The organization operates globally, engaging with various countries to fulfill its mission of environmental protection and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Management Assistant will support the Nature Frameworks Support Unit (NFSU) within the Biodiversity and Land Branch of UNEP's Ecosystems Division. This role involves providing comprehensive programme/project management and implementation assistance throughout all phases of the programme/project cycle, particularly for complex departmental initiatives. The incumbent will be responsible for drafting agreements, analyzing data, tracking legislative decisions, and ensuring compliance with guidelines. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work independently while also coordinating with various stakeholders. The role is crucial in assisting countries to meet their commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), among other Multilateral Environmental Agreements. The incumbent will also liaise with UNEP's Secretariat for the Kunming Biodiversity Fund and support GEF-funded projects aimed at enhancing biodiversity and sustainable practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Programme Assistance and General Administration: Provide full range of programme/project management assistance, draft agreements and budget agreements, research and compile data, track resolutions affecting programme/project content, review submissions for compliance, prepare newsletters and reports, serve as focal point for coordination and monitoring, assist with data collection and analysis, and manage internal databases.
• Budget and Finance: Assist in preparing work programmes and budgets, work with funding agencies, draft budgets and forecasts, monitor budgetary commitments, and prepare periodic budget revisions.
• Human Resources Management: Coordinate human resource activities, maintain vacancy announcement files, process personnel actions, and advise staff on conditions of service.
• Contract Administration: Administer contracts with external contractors, audit invoices, process payments, and manage permissions and access for staff.
• Additional duties as assigned, including fieldwork and mission support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant training in project administration, finance, budget administration, or human resources management is desirable. A minimum of ten years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum experience requirement is reduced to eight years. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, particularly Umoja, is required, along with familiarity with Multilateral Environment Agreements and Global funds such as the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Relevant training in project administration, finance, budget administration, or human resources management is desirable, indicating a preference for candidates with specialized knowledge in these areas.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of the role and ensuring effective management of projects. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with eight years of relevant experience. Experience with ERP systems, particularly Umoja, is essential, as is familiarity with the application of staff rules and regulations within the United Nations or similar organizations.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, but English is the primary language required for this role. Candidates should demonstrate their language skills according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is limited to the United Nations Environment Programme for an initial period of one year, subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. Staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers, and the United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.