National Action Lead

Job Advertisement

Position Title: National Action Lead
Location: Remote Work
Country: Remote
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is a central resource of the United Nations that supports partners in building a better future by providing services that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. Established to provide sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services, UNOPS operates in approximately 125 countries, working with governments, donors, and various UN organizations. The New York Portfolio Office (NYPO) specifically supports the United Nations Secretariat and other New York-based UN organizations, focusing on project management, infrastructure management, and procurement management. The Sustainable Development Cluster (SDC) within UNOPS was formed to support diverse partners in peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development operations, and it includes various portfolios such as Grants Management Services and UN Technology Support Services. The organization is committed to promoting sustainable development and inclusive rural transformation through partnerships like the Forest & Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP).

Job Overview:
The National Action Lead will play a crucial role in leading the FCLP's Pillar 3, which focuses on 'National Climate and Forests Action'. This position involves providing strategic support to FCLP members in operationalizing this pillar, which includes developing an implementation plan, coordinating with members and partners, and ensuring alignment with other global alliances. The National Action Lead will also support the preparation of necessary documents and facilitate engagement among global south country members. This role is essential for advancing the commitments made under the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration and ensuring that participating countries can effectively implement their self-determined national goals regarding forest conservation and climate action. The position requires a proactive approach to managing complex projects and engaging with high-level stakeholders, including government ministers.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide policy and strategic support to FCLP members to operationalize Pillar 3 - ‘National Climate and Forests Action’, including: - Develop an implementation plan based on the agreed strategy and collaborate with members to finalize the work plan. - Coordinate implementation efforts with FCLP members and partners. - Prepare documents, presentations, analyses, and plans for Pillar 3 implementation. - Ensure alignment between FCLP initiatives and other global alliances. - Facilitate engagement among global south country members, creating a conducive environment for their interaction.
• Support FCLP members in designing and implementing country packages: - Organize meetings, dialogues, and events related to country packages, providing support to co-lead governments. - Assist the International Working Group (IWG) and the Country Package Advisory Group (PAG). - Identify and coordinate efforts with new and existing partners to enhance the country package process. - Design tools and materials for disseminating country package information and lessons learned.
• Monitor and control progress through a work plan developed based on the UNOPS PER cycle, serving as the overarching document to track performance and progress.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant experience in areas such as forests and land-use, climate change, REDD+, and the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. They should have experience working with government systems and an understanding of the dynamics within diverse governmental structures. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate experience in managing complex projects and processes, engaging with various stakeholders, and interacting with high-level actors, including ministers and heads of government. Knowledge of REDD+ and familiarity with UNFCCC climate COPs and other significant climate and nature processes are also required. Desirable experience includes working on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), and Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs), as well as developing innovative financial mechanisms that value nature.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as environment, policy, law, international relations, or economics is required, along with five years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in the same fields is acceptable with seven years of relevant experience.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience if they hold a Master's degree, or seven years if they hold a Bachelor's degree. This experience should include work related to forests, climate change, and engagement with governmental and high-level stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory. Proficiency in written Spanish and French is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) at the international level (I-ICA 2). Depending on the candidate's personal situation, a local fee scale may be applied. The contract duration is open-ended, subject to performance, availability of funds, and organizational requirements. As this is a home-based position, the selected candidate must ensure they have a secure internet connection and the necessary equipment for work. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups, ensuring an inclusive working environment. Background checks are conducted for all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks.