Senior Programme Management Officer

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. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been at the forefront of environmental governance, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. The organization operates in multiple countries, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to foster sustainable development and environmental protection. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it employs a diverse workforce dedicated to achieving these goals.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Management Officer will lead the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the Saudi environment sustainability programme. This role involves supporting the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in enhancing environmental governance and policy development. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and evaluating the UNEP Strategic Cooperation Programme with Saudi Arabia, directing project personnel, and leading in-country missions as necessary. The position requires effective liaison with key officials at all levels of the Saudi Government and within UNEP, ensuring collaboration and partnerships are established to facilitate the programme's success. The officer will also coordinate research and programme evaluation, prepare policy-oriented briefings, and manage outreach activities, including training workshops and seminars.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of the UNEP Strategic Cooperation Programme with Saudi Arabia, ensuring alignment with the signed agreement and project document.
• Direct technical and administrative project personnel in programme development, implementation, monitoring, and assessment.
• Serve as the UNEP liaison, establishing collaboration with key officials in the Saudi Government and within UNEP.
• Direct research and programme evaluation, coordinating environment policy development and reviewing assessments of issues and trends.
• Identify environmental priorities and propose policy options and corrective actions.
• Prepare policy-oriented briefings and presentations, directing substantive support to meetings and conferences.
• Review relevant documents and reports, supervising the preparation of written outputs.
• Ensure implementation of gender mainstreaming guidelines in all planned actions.
• Coordinate budget and funding activities, preparing progress reports and financial statements. 1
• Supervise and develop staff, guiding and mentoring them in their roles. 1
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends for data-driven planning and decision-making. 1
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, environment, or a related field. A first-level degree in the specified fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Relevant training and technical certification in Project Management, such as PRINCE or PMP, is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of theories and concepts relevant to environmental governance and policy development, as well as the ability to communicate effectively and provide innovative technical leadership.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, environment, or a related field is required. A first-level degree in the specified fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related area is required. Experience in providing policy advice on environmental governance issues, diplomatic negotiations, and developing and implementing technical cooperation programmes is desirable. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also beneficial.

Languages:
English and Arabic are required for this position. English is the working language of the United Nations Secretariat, and candidates must demonstrate proficiency at UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Arabic proficiency at UN Level II is also required, ensuring effective communication in both languages.

Additional Notes:
The appointment against this position 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 classified as fixed-term appointment limited (FTA limited). Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, and the United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.