Junior Consultant

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Position Title: Junior Consultant
Location: Geneva, Remote
Country: Switzerland, Remote
Deadline Date:

Job Details

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. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance and sustainable development, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 150 countries, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to promote sustainable practices and policies. UNEP FI, a strategic partnership between UNEP and over 500 financial institutions, has been shaping the sustainable finance agenda for over 32 years, setting global standards and fostering a network of leading financial institutions committed to sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Junior Consultant position at UNEP FI is designed to support the implementation of a project aimed at advancing nature finance and market-based revenues. This role is crucial in contributing to the realization of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly Target 19, which focuses on leveraging private finance and encouraging the finance industry to invest in biodiversity. The consultant will engage with a broad range of financial institutions, including commercial banks, asset managers, and insurers, to promote sustainability in financial market practices. The consultant will be responsible for coordinating knowledge activities, developing knowledge products, and facilitating webinars and events that foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders in the finance sector. This position requires a proactive approach to support the UNEP FI Nature team in various tasks, ensuring that sustainability principles are integrated into financial operations and services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Junior Consultant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Coordinating a series of webinars, side events, and workshops to facilitate the exchange of lessons learned on innovative nature finance trends and revenue models.
• Conducting desk research and writing knowledge products such as guides, case studies, and articles that focus on nature-based mechanisms and revenue models.
• Developing a typology for private nature finance and revenues, collecting data for analysis and tracking purposes.
• Supporting the incorporation of private finance into National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans.
• Assisting the UNEP FI Nature team with various tasks as needed, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with project coordinators, subject matter experts, and stakeholders.
• Organizing and managing the review process for the Brazil guidebook on the Living Amazonia Mechanism.
• Writing sections of semi-annual and annual reports detailing project management activities and progress.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Junior Consultant position should possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in digital technology and the ability to manage multiple tasks across various projects in an organized manner.
• Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Experience in the environmental non-profit sector, financial services, or commercial consulting, particularly in relation to sustainable finance and biodiversity.
• Ability to summarize information and work across sectors and industries, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in complex settings.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in economics, finance, environmental sciences, business, or a related discipline. An advanced university degree is desirable and may be considered in lieu of the first degree if the candidate has relevant experience. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the intersection of finance and environmental sustainability, as well as the skills required for effective communication and project management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of work experience related to the financial sector, biodiversity, and climate change. This experience should be relevant to examining biodiversity risks, nature-related policies, and the role of the financial sector in financing nature protection and conservation. Candidates with experience working with financial institutions or in international and inter-cultural environments will be preferred, as this will enhance their ability to navigate the complexities of sustainable finance.

Languages:
English is the primary working language of UNEP FI, and proficiency in other United Nations languages is considered an asset. Strong communication skills in English are essential for effective collaboration and knowledge sharing within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is expected to be remote and has a duration of 9 months. The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Head of UNEP FI and report directly to the Nature Lead. The role is designed to be full-time, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. The organization is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background.