Senior Coordinator for Nature Finance

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Position Title: Senior Coordinator for Nature Finance
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address pressing environmental challenges. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees and operations in more than 100 countries, UNEP plays a crucial role in shaping international environmental policy and fostering sustainable development practices worldwide. The organization is committed to promoting sustainable patterns of consumption and production, ensuring the safe management of chemicals, and supporting the integration of environmental considerations into trade policies. UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), a strategic partnership between UNEP and over 500 banks, insurers, and investors, has been instrumental in driving the sustainable finance agenda for over 32 years, setting global standards and fostering collaboration among financial institutions to align with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals.

Job Overview:
The Senior Coordinator for Nature Finance will lead a project aimed at understanding and implementing market-based revenue models while redirecting private finance from nature-negative to nature-positive outcomes. This role is critical in assisting signatories of the Convention on Biological Diversity in meeting their commitments, particularly in the context of the ambitious USD 200 billion annual target for biodiversity conservation by 203

• The coordinator will manage the project in collaboration with partner organizations, develop strong relationships with relevant stakeholders, and oversee multiple workstreams that include organizing dialogues, producing guidance, and building country capacity. The position requires a strategic mindset to navigate complex financial landscapes and promote innovative solutions that align with biodiversity goals. The consultant will also represent UNEP FI at key events, enhancing the visibility and impact of the initiative.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for managing the project in collaboration with partner organizations, developing and maintaining strong relationships with governments, UNEP financial institution members, and corporations. Key responsibilities include managing multiple workstreams such as organizing dialogues, creating a community of practice, producing guidance, and developing country capacity and implementation plans. The consultant will conduct, coordinate, and supervise all project activities, including planning, budgeting, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. They will also coordinate with UNEP FI's broader nature and work programs, focusing on private finance for nature and aligning financial flows into the bio-economy. The consultant will facilitate engagement dialogues, contribute to the development of a guidebook for Brazil, organize implementation plan dialogues, and develop an implementation plan for adopting nature revenue models. Additionally, the consultant will ensure timely and accurate documentation of project outcomes and provide comprehensive semi-annual and annual reports on project management activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree or equivalent in economics, finance, environmental studies, business, or development studies. A bachelor's degree combined with ten years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of eight years of project/programme management experience in a large international organization is required, along with at least four years of experience in nature finance. Demonstrated capacity for convening and organizing meetings/events for governments and finance actors is highly desired. Strong coordination and organizational skills, excellent writing and communication abilities, and good analytical skills with an interest in sustainable finance are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as economics, finance, environmental studies, business, or development studies. Candidates with a bachelor's degree and significant relevant work experience (ten years) may also be considered. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of nature finance and the integration of financial strategies into biodiversity conservation efforts.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of eight years of experience in project or programme management within a large international organization. This experience should include at least four years specifically focused on nature finance, demonstrating a deep understanding of the financial mechanisms that can support biodiversity initiatives. The candidate should also have a proven track record of successfully managing complex projects and engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government entities and financial institutions.

Languages:
English is the working language of UNEP FI, and proficiency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of French and Spanish is considered an asset, as it enhances communication with a broader range of stakeholders and facilitates engagement in multilingual contexts.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for nine months, and the consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Head of UNEP FI, reporting directly to the Nature Lead. The role requires strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work independently, and proficiency in standard software applications. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.