National Consultant for the SAPPHIRE Project

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Position Title: National Consultant for the SAPPHIRE Project
Location: Nairobi
Country: Kenya
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 a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. The organization administers various conventions, including the Nairobi Convention for the Protection, Management and Development of the Coastal and Marine Environment of the Western Indian Ocean, which involves multiple contracting parties including Comoros, France, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, and the United Republic of Tanzania. UNEP's Ecosystems Division works closely with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policies, thereby strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and those with economies in transition.

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant for the SAPPHIRE Project is crucial for the effective management and implementation of the project aimed at enhancing ecosystem-based management of the resources of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) Large Marine Ecosystems. The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Head of the Nairobi Convention Secretariat and will assist the Project Coordinator with day-to-day technical management. The role involves developing legal instruments for funding agreements, creating Terms of Reference for consultancies, and organizing meetings with government representatives and stakeholders. The consultant will also be responsible for compiling and writing reports on various project activities, including regional meetings and training workshops, which are essential for the terminal evaluation of the project. This position requires a proactive approach to enhance ocean governance, address regional priorities, and improve responses to oil spills, thereby contributing to the sustainable management of marine resources in the WIO region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Consultant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Collaborating with the Project Coordination Unit to develop legal instruments such as small-scale funding agreements to support in-country initiatives.
• Assisting the SAPPHIRE Project Coordinator in drafting Terms of Reference for consultancies that will carry out project activities.
• Supporting the Terminal Evaluation Consultant in organizing and facilitating meetings with government representatives and stakeholders involved in SAPPHIRE project activities.
• Organizing and writing reports on regional meetings related to ABNJ/BBNJ and final reporting on demonstration projects.
• Compiling and writing a report on the final Project Steering Committee meeting for the SAPPHIRE Project.
• Working with implementing partners to finalize technical reports necessary for closing financial obligations.
• Organizing and documenting meetings aimed at finalizing a regional oil spill contingency plan.
• Conducting and reporting on training and capacity development workshops focused on regional water quality guidelines. These responsibilities are critical for ensuring the successful implementation and evaluation of the SAPPHIRE Project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management, or related fields. Additionally, a minimum of 7 years of professional experience is required, specifically in regional marine and coastal-related projects at a technical level. Candidates should demonstrate experience in developing and reviewing proposals for small-scale interventions in coastal ecosystems conservation and natural resources management, including areas such as ecosystem management, climate change, and community engagement. Proven ability to work with diverse stakeholders at both strategic and technical levels is essential, along with a track record of delivering quality assignments in a timely manner. Experience working with governments in the WIO region is also a requirement.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in disciplines such as Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, or Natural Resources Management. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of marine ecosystems and the policies governing their management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in the field of marine and coastal project management. Candidates should have a strong background in working on regional projects, particularly those that involve technical aspects of marine resource management. Experience in developing proposals for interventions in coastal ecosystems and engaging with various stakeholders is also necessary. Familiarity with the governance structures and environmental policies of the WIO region is highly advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also required, as it is another working language of the UN. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of 10 months. The consultant will work on a full-time basis, contributing to the SAPPHIRE Project's objectives. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also emphasizes that it does not require any information regarding applicants' bank accounts.