UNEP Regional Coordinator - Nature Action

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's Ecosystems Division works with international and national partners, providing technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy, and strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. The organization is committed to addressing the pressing environmental challenges facing the world today and aims to foster sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP operates in multiple countries and has a diverse workforce dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and resilience.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Regional Coordinator for Nature Action will be responsible for overseeing and guiding the implementation of UNEP's policies and programs related to ecosystems and biodiversity in the West Asia region. This role involves advising the Regional Director and coordinating with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, governments, and NGOs, to ensure effective capacity building and technology transfer in the field of ecosystem management. The incumbent will be expected to develop strategies that align with UNEP's regional work, facilitate collaboration among partners, and ensure that the environmental aspects of sustainable development are integrated into national and regional policies. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying regional needs and trends, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences to promote UNEP's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Serve as Senior Policy Officer, advising UNEP and the Coordinator for Ecosystems and Biodiversity on policy direction and regional needs; 2) Act as the primary focal point for capacity building and technology access in ecosystems and biodiversity; 3) Liaise with UN agencies, NGOs, and government officials to prepare strategies for ecosystem management; 4) Organize technical review meetings and follow-up work to support policy development; 5) Coordinate regional input into UNEP's programming and ensure adequate support for capacity building; 6) Prepare situation reports and recommendations based on regional analyses; 7) Establish and maintain partnerships with relevant stakeholders; 8) Collect and analyze data to identify trends and support decision-making; 9) Perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of international, regional, and national environmental policies, governance frameworks, and institutional arrangements related to ecosystem management and biodiversity protection. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret data effectively, identify discrepancies, and resolve operational challenges. Professionalism, communication skills, and teamwork are essential competencies for this role, as the incumbent will work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve organizational goals.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in biodiversity sciences, environmental sciences, natural resource management, environmental policy, or a closely related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable. A PhD in environmental policy or a related field is also desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in policy development, program management, and partnership coordination in ecosystems management or a related area is required. Experience working with governments and institutions in West Asia is desirable, as is experience in environmental policy implementation and international environmental issues. Two or more years of experience in data analytics or a related area is also desirable.

Languages:
English and Arabic are required for this position, with proficiency at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and knowledge of it is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension. Staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Applicants from under-represented Member States are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.