Consultant for UNEP FI Risk Programme

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 instrumental in encouraging sustainable development through sound environmental practices. It operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. UNEP FI, a strategic partnership between the United Nations and over 500 banks, insurers, and investors, has been shaping the international sustainable finance agenda for over 32 years, setting global standards and fostering a global network of leading financial institutions. UNEP FI promotes sustainable finance and helps the financial industry align with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals through various initiatives, including the Principles for Responsible Banking and the Principles for Sustainable Insurance. The organization is committed to providing financial institutions with research and tools to assess, manage, and report on sustainability risks, particularly in areas such as climate change and nature loss, thereby enhancing their capabilities for risk assessment and disclosure.

Job Overview:
The Consultant for UNEP FI's Risk Programme will play a crucial role in supporting the development and delivery of projects aimed at integrating sustainability risks into financial practices. The consultant will contribute to various working groups, including the Legal Risks Working Group, and assist in the execution of workshops and training sessions focused on customer transition plans and combating greenwashing. The position requires a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement and project management, ensuring that outputs align with UNEP FI's objectives for sustainable finance. The consultant will also be involved in climate scenario analysis, stress testing, and risk assessment, contributing to the completion of publications and resources that support financial institutions in managing sustainability risks. This role is essential for advancing UNEP FI's mission to promote sustainable finance and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to:

• Contributing to the Customer Transition Plan Working Group by determining the need for a new working group and producing session overviews and publication proposals.
• Overseeing the administration of the Legal Risks Working Group, managing invitations, technical support, and speaker confirmations.
• Managing membership data and session attendance tracking for the Risk Centre.
• Assisting in the completion of publications related to climate scenario analysis and stress testing methodologies, including coordination with communication and design teams.
• Planning and setting up Risk Centre Working Groups for the 2025/2026 period.
• Conducting regional training sessions on climate risk. The consultant will also contribute to outputs related to combating greenwashing, human rights, and environmental crime, ensuring that the work aligns with the interests of the Legal Risks Working Group.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in sustainable finance, climate risks, and stakeholder engagement. A proven track record in supporting international programmes, particularly in the financial sector, is essential. The consultant should demonstrate knowledge of sustainable finance frameworks and the ability to manage complex projects involving multiple stakeholders. Strong organizational and communication skills are necessary to effectively contribute to the various working groups and training initiatives.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in law, economics, finance, risk management, environmental management, human rights, business administration, or related fields is preferred. However, a first degree may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree if the candidate has at least four years of relevant experience in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of experience in the environmental non-profit sector, financial services, commercial consulting, or applied academic research focused on sustainable finance. This experience should be relevant to examining climate risks, climate policies, and the role of the financial sector in climate action, demonstrating the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to UNEP FI's objectives.

Languages:
English is the primary working language of UNEP FI. Knowledge of other United Nations languages is considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to international programmes.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for six months. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Head of UNEP FI and report directly to the Programme Management Officer. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.