GCF Liaison Officer for Suriname

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was established in 2010 by the 194 countries that are Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It serves as the world’s largest dedicated climate fund, with a mission to finance transformative climate projects across developing countries. Over the past decade, GCF has financed projects amounting to over USD 19 billion across more than 330 projects in over 130 countries. The organization aims to empower developing nations to combat climate change while promoting sustainable development within their communities. As GCF scales towards its vision of becoming a USD 50 billion fund by 2030, strengthening national capacities remains central to its mission. GCF mobilizes public and private sector investments through diverse financing instruments and equips developing countries with the necessary resources, skills, and capacities to effectively secure and manage climate financing through its Readiness and Preparatory Support Programme.

Job Overview:
The GCF Liaison Officer will act as the primary liaison between the GCF Secretariat and Suriname, providing essential support to the National Designated Authority (NDA) or relevant agency in all matters concerning GCF climate action. This role entails close coordination with stakeholders relevant to GCF activities in the country to ensure seamless execution of programming, accreditation, readiness support conceptualization, oversight, project preparation, and implementation. The GCF Liaison Officer will be at the forefront of accelerating climate action in Suriname, bridging GCF and national institutions to unlock transformative climate investments. The position is crucial for enhancing the capacity of the NDA and relevant agencies to plan, develop, and implement climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives, as well as for raising awareness and facilitating understanding of GCF funding windows, policies, and processes within the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The GCF Liaison Officer will carry out a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Readiness: Engage and assist the NDA in co-developing draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for readiness support, ensuring alignment with national priorities and addressing capacity gaps. Facilitate stakeholder engagement through effective communication with relevant country stakeholders, including ministries, private sector entities, and civil society organizations. Assist in completing the Financial Management Capacity Assessment (FMCA) form as required, and support the NDA with adaptive management requests. Contribute to midterm reviews of readiness activities and provide input for adjusting initial TORs as needed.
• Pipeline Development, Implementation, Monitoring, and Reporting: Contribute to capacity-building by imparting skills and knowledge to the NDA and relevant stakeholders. Provide advice and guidance on GCF policies and procedures to successfully develop and implement climate investments. Assist in the development of project ideas, concept notes, and funding proposals, and facilitate stakeholder discussions throughout the project cycle. Support the coordination of No Objection Letter processes and maintain regular communication with accredited entities to report to the GCF Secretariat. Assist in the preparation of country portfolio results reporting and organize relevant events to showcase GCF results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university-level degree in climate change/environmental science, climate economics/finance, engineering, project finance, or a closely related discipline. They should have at least eight years of experience in the public and/or private sector, with a demonstrated focus on climate investment and financing initiatives for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Proven experience in institutional strengthening and capacity-building within developing economies is essential, along with at least five years of experience in developing climate change investment proposals. Candidates should also have experience addressing climate change issues in Suriname, demonstrating a deep understanding of local context and challenges. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to coordinate and engage with multiple stakeholders are crucial, as well as excellent communication skills, both written and oral. Familiarity with GCF operational mechanisms and funding modalities will be an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university-level degree in a relevant field such as climate change/environmental science, climate economics/finance, engineering, or project finance. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of climate finance and the necessary skills to engage effectively with stakeholders and develop impactful climate investment proposals.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of experience in the public and/or private sector, specifically focusing on climate investment and financing initiatives. Candidates should have a proven track record in institutional strengthening and capacity-building, particularly within developing economies. Additionally, at least five years of experience in successfully developing climate change investment proposals is necessary, showcasing expertise in crafting compelling funding applications and monitoring and evaluating climate change initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication. Proficiency in the official language(s) of Suriname or other United Nations languages is highly desirable, as it would enhance communication with local stakeholders and facilitate better engagement in the context of climate action.

Additional Notes:
The GCF Liaison Officer will be based in Paramaribo, Suriname, and will operate from the offices of the NDA or relevant agency. The initial assignment is for a maximum of 180 working days over a period of 11 months and 29 days, with the possibility of extension based on annual performance evaluation and continued funding availability. The daily rate offered for this consultancy is USD 13

• Preference will be given to nationals or residents of Suriname for this position. The application must be submitted in English, and applications from women and citizens from developing countries are strongly encouraged. Although the position is labeled as remote, it requires in-person presence in Paramaribo. If a civil servant or government employee is selected, the NDA must provide written confirmation that the individual will be on leave without pay during the placement.