Programme Management Officer

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 serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, working to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various environmental initiatives. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which is administered by UNEP, is located in Montreal, Canada, and plays a crucial role in the conservation of biological diversity and the sustainable use of its components.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer position is situated within the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), specifically in the Science, Monitoring and Capacity Division. The incumbent will be responsible for providing scientific, technical, analytical, and policy advice to the Parties on issues related to forest, mountain, and dryland ecosystems, as well as ecosystem restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial biological diversity. This role involves analyzing scientific evidence and policy measures, preparing technical assessments and strategic documents, managing program activities, and promoting engagement with stakeholders. The officer will also be expected to showcase the benefits of ecosystem-based approaches and facilitate the dissemination of data to support the implementation of national strategies and plans. The position requires a strong understanding of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with various partners and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management Officer include:

• Providing scientific and technical advice on biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, particularly in relation to forest, mountain, and dryland ecosystems.
• Analyzing and interpreting scientific literature and policy measures to identify priorities for further attention.
• Preparing technical assessments and strategic documents for meetings of the Conference of the Parties and other intergovernmental processes.
• Managing program activities related to terrestrial biodiversity and ecosystem restoration, including supervising staff and coordinating reports and presentations.
• Leading capacity development initiatives and facilitating workshops and training events.
• Developing partnerships with relevant organizations and stakeholders to promote biodiversity considerations in broader sustainable development goals.
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.
• Representing the Secretariat at meetings and conferences, delivering presentations on biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in biology, environmental science, sustainable development, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with additional qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of theories and concepts relevant to natural resources management, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, and project management. They must also possess strong analytical and evaluative skills, as well as the ability to apply United Nations administrative rules and regulations in work situations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields such as biology, environmental science, climate science, sustainable development with a specialization in ecosystem conservation and restoration, forestry management, or environmental management. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, completion of programs in data analytics or related areas is considered desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial biodiversity is required, particularly in forest management, environmental management, land-use planning, and ecosystem restoration at the national level. Candidates should have at least five years of work experience at the international level dealing with wider environmental issues or multicountry projects. Experience in program management, policy analysis, and supervision is desirable, as well as two years or more in data analytics or related areas. Familiarity with the work of the United Nations and knowledge of forest-related initiatives across the UN system is also desirable.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of proficiency as per the UN Language Framework. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is limited to the United Nations Environment Programme and is 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 classified as fixed-term, and external candidates selected will be granted a fixed-term appointment limited. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization also emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process.