Deputy Director Programme

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 and has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. Established in 1972, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental governance and law.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director Programme position is located within UNEP's Law Division in Nairobi. The incumbent will support the Director in managing the Division, overseeing day-to-day operations, and ensuring the delivery of programmatic outputs and services. This role requires a strong legal background, particularly in environmental law, and involves providing legal advice on various environmental issues, promoting the implementation of international environmental goals, and coordinating with other UN bodies and stakeholders. The Deputy Director will also be responsible for analyzing policy issues, developing strategies for environmental law implementation, and leading a team to collect and analyze data for informed decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the Director in the management and administration of the Division, including day-to-day operations and serving as officer in charge when necessary.
• Provide legal advice on environmental law and recommend actions to address legal issues.
• Promote government actions for implementing international environmental goals through legal frameworks.
• Direct staff in analyzing policy issues and recommend legal responses.
• Oversee human resources administration and monitor the implementation of the Division's Programme of Work.
• Serve as legal advisor for intergovernmental meetings and conferences related to environmental treaties.
• Develop policies and strategies for UNEP's environmental law mandate and direct staff in executing required actions.
• Coordinate with UN bodies and other organizations to promote coherent environmental law policies.
• Lead efforts to collect and analyze data for planning and reporting. 1
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of environmental law and legal procedures, particularly in relation to multilateral environmental agreements. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze complex legal issues and provide sound legal advice. Professionalism, accountability, and leadership skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Candidates should also exhibit strong planning and organizational skills, ensuring efficient use of time and resources.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in international law, international environmental law, or related fields is required. A first-level degree (Bachelor’s) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in international law development and implementation, with proven experience in international environmental law, is required. Candidates should have at least five years of experience at the international level, preferably within the United Nations or a similar organization. Experience in financial and human resources management is also required, along with familiarity in managing legal processes in international 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, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

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 a fixed-term appointment, and external candidates will undergo a probationary period of one year. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants must provide complete and accurate information in their applications, as this will be the basis for assessment and selection.