Project Lead/Sustainable Finance Specialist

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Position Title: Project Lead/Sustainable Finance Specialist
Location: Paramaribo
Country: Suriname
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the knowledge frontier organization for sustainable development within the UN Development System. Established to integrate collective action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP operates globally, providing deep local knowledge combined with cutting-edge global perspectives. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel can contribute to its mission. UNDP has a strong commitment to eradicating poverty and supporting countries in their pathways towards sustainable development, as outlined in its 2022-2025 Strategic Plan. The organization operates in numerous countries, employing a diverse workforce to address various global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Project Lead/Sustainable Finance Specialist will oversee the implementation of the GEF8-Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP) Umbrella program in Suriname. This role involves managing in-country activities, ensuring that work plans and budgets are effectively executed within set timelines. The Project Lead will collaborate with a technical team, including an Environmental Policy Expert and a Biodiversity Finance Analyst, to establish implementation mechanisms and ensure that all planned activities meet quality standards. The position requires substantial technical expertise to provide advisory services and quality assurance throughout the project duration. The Project Lead will also be responsible for outreach activities to national stakeholders and the preparation of various reports and policy briefs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Overall supervision and management of in-country activities, ensuring proper workplan and budget implementation.
• Collaborate with the technical team to establish working groups and organize workshops and studies.
• Provide technical expertise in integrating workstreams and ensuring quality assurance of national products.
• Lead the preparation of the Biodiversity Finance Plan and oversee the identification of finance solutions.
• Maintain communication with national stakeholders and ensure timely identification of risks.
• Act as the principal technical contact for project implementation, providing guidance and quality control for deliverables.
• Lead project monitoring, reporting, and evaluation, drafting reports for submission to the global BIOFIN team.
• Establish strategic partnerships with relevant institutions and engage in resource mobilization efforts.
• Organize training for project personnel and document lessons learned and best practices.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (master’s degree) in Environment/Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity, Political Studies, Economics, Finance, or related field, or a first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience with a master’s degree or 7 years with a bachelor’s degree in development/environment/finance projects.
• Familiarity with the Sustainable Development Agenda and demonstrated experience in biodiversity and climate change.
• Strong communication skills to engage effectively with government institutions and stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree) in relevant fields such as Environment, Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity, Political Studies, Economics, or Finance. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a master’s degree or 7 years for those with a bachelor’s degree. Experience should preferably be in the implementation of development, environment, or finance projects, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and project management.

Languages:
Fluency in Dutch is required, and a working knowledge of English is considered an asset. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and project partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a national recruitment process, and all posts in the NPSA categories are subject to local recruitment. The role is full-time and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government institutions, NGOs, and the private sector. The UNDP maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized and underserved populations.