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, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has been pivotal in addressing environmental issues on a global scale, working with various stakeholders to foster sustainable practices. The organization operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Management Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) within the Economic and Societal Transformation Division. The incumbent will be responsible for managing and implementing various programs and projects, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement and cooperation in CBD processes. This position requires a proactive approach to track decisions made by the Conference of the Parties (COP) that impact program content and intergovernmental processes. The role also involves liaising with donor organizations to secure financing for projects, drafting budgets, and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements. The assistant will be expected to conduct research, analyze data, and prepare documentation that supports the objectives of the Unit, while also coordinating communications with various stakeholders to facilitate cooperation initiatives.

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

• Programme and Project Management: Independently manage all phases of program/project cycles, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement. Track COP decisions and support implementation of relevant decisions. Work with donor organizations to arrange financing and draft budgets. Serve as the focal point for coordination and monitoring of implementation activities.
• Research, Analysis, and Documentation: Conduct research and compile information on programs/projects. Review submissions and ensure compliance with guidelines. Draft inputs for various documents and reports.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Cooperation: Coordinate communications with Parties and partner organizations. Assist in developing project proposals for donors. Manage submission and publication of stakeholder documentation. Provide guidance to external stakeholders regarding CBD processes.
• Secretariat and Logistical Support: Provide secretariat services for committees and meetings. Draft agendas and minutes, monitor follow-up actions, and support logistical arrangements for meetings and workshops.
• Supervision, Information, and Knowledge Management: Supervise office support staff, manage databases, and assist in data collection and analysis. Maintain information materials such as websites and newsletters.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with supplementary training in programme/project administration or public administration being desirable. Candidates must possess a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project administration, including experience in drafting official documentation and coordinating with multiple stakeholders. Experience in international cooperation or stakeholder engagement in the context of multilateral environmental agreements is also desirable, along with experience within the UN system or similar organizations. Knowledge related to biodiversity or environmental issues is a plus, as is experience in communications and organizing intergovernmental meetings.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Additional qualifications in programme/project administration or public administration are considered advantageous. Candidates with further education in environmental studies or related fields may have an edge in the selection process.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project administration. This experience should include drafting and reviewing official documentation and coordinating with various stakeholders. Desirable experience includes working in international cooperation or stakeholder engagement related to multilateral environmental agreements, as well as experience within the UN system or similar organizations. Experience in biodiversity or environmental issues, communications, and organizing intergovernmental meetings is also beneficial.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is required at UN Level II, which includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Knowledge of French is considered an asset but is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is limited to the United Nations Environment Programme and is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Canada. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. 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 workforce.