Senior Programme Management Officer

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 a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it operates in over 150 countries. The organization employs thousands of staff members and collaborates with various international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy, thereby strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Management Officer will be located in the Coordinating Unit (CU) for the Mediterranean Action Plan (UNEP/MAP) within UNEP's Ecosystems Division. The incumbent will be responsible for supporting the Coordinator in strategic and operational planning, implementation, and monitoring of the Barcelona Convention and the Mediterranean Commission for Sustainable Development (MCSD). This role involves organizing and leading the preparation and delivery of the MAP Programme of Work, ensuring effective coordination among various stakeholders, including Contracting Parties, MAP Components, and other partners. The officer will also oversee the operational implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of projects, ensuring alignment with UNEP policies and the requirements of the Contracting Parties. Additionally, the incumbent will be involved in fundraising strategies, coordination of information and reporting activities, and may represent UNEP/MAP at various forums. The position requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex projects in a politically sensitive environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the Coordinator in developing and executing strategies for the Barcelona Convention, MAP, and MCSD;
• Organize and lead the preparation and delivery of the MAP Programme of Work;
• Coordinate operational implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the Programme of Work and projects;
• Ensure integration and coordination of MAP Components;
• Monitor and report on performance of activities and projects;
• Liaise with Governments, IGOs, and NGOs;
• Implement the MAP fundraising strategy;
• Oversee preparation of publications and dissemination of reports;
• Represent UNEP/MAP at various forums; 1
• Supervise staff and consultants; 1
• Collect and analyze data for decision-making; 1
• Perform any other relevant duties assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) and related environmental concepts. They should demonstrate the ability to identify strategic issues, opportunities, and risks, and communicate effectively with various stakeholders. The role requires innovative technical leadership and the ability to negotiate and apply good judgment in complex situations. Candidates should show a commitment to professional excellence and the ability to meet deadlines and achieve results.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in disciplines related to environment, law, environmental management, or sustainable development is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in managing marine environment-related projects or programmes is required. Experience in regional or international environmental organizations or national administration is essential. Candidates should have experience in diplomatic negotiations and politically sensitive matters, as well as in partnership and resource mobilization issues within an international context. Experience in drafting policy briefings and analytical reports is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and knowledge of French are required for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages and languages spoken in the Mediterranean Region is considered an asset. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, understanding), while 'knowledge of' is rated as 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension, contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as fixed-term appointment limited (FTA-limited). Candidates selected for this position will be subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various activities or offices of the United Nations. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.