Project and Senior Sustainable Finance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and the eradication of poverty. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, providing expert advice, training, and support to develop local capacity. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and works collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement solutions that address pressing global challenges. UNDP's mission is to help countries achieve sustainable development by integrating economic, social, and environmental dimensions into their policies and programs. The organization emphasizes the importance of local knowledge and global perspectives, ensuring that its initiatives are tailored to the specific needs of each country. UNDP's Global Policy Network (GPN) plays a crucial role in this mission by providing technical expertise and support across various domains, including nature, climate change, energy, and waste management.

Job Overview:
The Project and Senior Sustainable Finance Specialist, also referred to as the Project Lead, will oversee the implementation of the GEF8 Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP) Umbrella program in Eswatini. This role involves managing in-country activities, ensuring that work plans and budgets are effectively executed within set timelines. The Project Lead will collaborate with a technical team comprising an Environmental Policy Expert, a Biodiversity Finance Specialist, and a Project Support Associate to establish implementation mechanisms and technical working groups. The position requires substantial technical expertise to ensure the integration and consistency of workstreams and to provide advisory services throughout the project duration. The Project Lead will be responsible for producing key documents such as the Policy and Institutional Review, Biodiversity Expenditure Review, and Financial Needs Assessment, as well as leading outreach activities to engage national and international stakeholders. This role is critical in advancing biodiversity finance solutions and ensuring that the project meets its objectives in alignment with national and global biodiversity targets.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Lead will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Overseeing the identification, selection, and supervision of national consultants and experts in collaboration with the UNDP Country Office and the Global Project Management and Technical Support Unit (GPMTSU).
• Writing and revising terms of reference for national BIOFIN team members.
• Developing and revising work plans and budgets in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
• Supervising the work of national experts and institutions to ensure timely delivery of outputs that meet high-quality standards.
• Organizing project workshops and facilitating stakeholder engagement across various sectors, including government, private sector, NGOs, and academia.
• Maintaining regular communication with key ministries and stakeholders to ensure alignment with national planning processes.
• Identifying and communicating risks in project implementation to the GPMTSU.
• Leading project monitoring, reporting, and evaluation, including drafting monthly and quarterly reports.
• Ensuring the integration of global methodologies into national work and liaising with relevant initiatives and programs. 1
• Supporting knowledge sharing and capacity building activities to enhance stakeholder engagement and project outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as environment/natural resource management, project management, biodiversity, political studies, economics/finance, or a related area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in a relevant field combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered. The role requires a minimum of 7 years of experience (with a master's degree) or 9 years (with a bachelor's degree) at the national or international level in implementing environment, biodiversity, or finance projects. Proficiency in using office software packages and web-based management systems is essential, along with advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database applications. Experience with UNDP projects and knowledge of environmental or biodiversity-related policies are highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as environment/natural resource management, project management, biodiversity, political studies, economics/finance, or a related discipline. Candidates with a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in a relevant field, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of biodiversity finance and sustainable development initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience, specifically a minimum of 7 years at the national or international level in the implementation of environment, biodiversity, or finance projects. Candidates with a master's degree should have at least 7 years of relevant experience, while those with a bachelor's degree should have a minimum of 9 years. This experience should include managing projects, working with diverse stakeholders, and demonstrating a strong understanding of biodiversity finance mechanisms and policies.

Languages:
Proficiency in both the national language (siSwati) and English is required for this position. Knowledge of any other UN language or national language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role within the National Project Management Unit (NPMU) and is expected to be co-located with relevant government agencies. The Project Lead will be the senior representative of the NPMU, responsible for the overall management of the project. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for other similar positions. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination in any form. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UNDP's policies and standards.