GCF Liaison Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was established in 2010 by the 194 countries that are Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It is recognized as the world’s largest dedicated climate fund, focusing on financing transformative climate projects across developing countries. The GCF aims to empower these nations to effectively respond to and combat climate change while promoting sustainable development within their communities. The organization mobilizes public and private sector investments through a diverse range of financing instruments and strengthens the capacity of developing countries to undertake climate action through its Readiness and Preparatory Support Programme. This initiative equips countries with the necessary resources to build foundations, skills, and capacities to effectively secure and manage climate financing. The GCF's 2024-2027 strategy for the Readiness Programme introduces a placement scheme to deploy local experts known as GCF Liaison Officers within National Designated Authorities (NDAs) or other relevant agencies, ensuring continuous engagement with GCF and facilitating the development of programming capacities for enhanced access to climate finance.

Job Overview:
The GCF Liaison Officer will serve as the primary liaison between the GCF Secretariat and the country, providing essential support to the NDA or relevant agency in all matters concerning GCF climate action. This role requires close coordination with stakeholders involved in GCF activities to ensure seamless execution of various tasks, including country programming, accreditation, readiness support conceptualization, oversight, project preparation, and implementation. The officer will play a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of the NDA and relevant agencies to plan, develop, and implement climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives. The position also involves raising awareness about GCF funding windows, policies, and processes, as well as facilitating knowledge transfer and skill development among local stakeholders and communities. The GCF Liaison Officer will be instrumental in supporting the NDA in achieving its objectives related to climate action and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The GCF Liaison Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities to ensure the successful implementation of the placement scheme. This includes facilitating and assisting the NDA in the implementation of the country programme, which involves annual reporting and identifying challenges and opportunities for discussion with the NDA and GCF Secretariat. The officer will support the review and update of Kiribati’s country programme, assist in coordinating consultative processes to identify key areas for results related to national development strategies, and help identify potential partners for project implementation. Additionally, the officer will engage with the NDA to co-develop draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for readiness support, facilitate stakeholder engagement, assist in completing the Financial Management Capacity Assessment (FMCA) form, and contribute to midterm reviews of readiness activities. The officer will also contribute to capacity-building efforts by imparting skills and knowledge to the NDA and relevant stakeholders, provide guidance on GCF policies and procedures, assist in developing project ideas and funding proposals, maintain communication with accredited entities, and support the NDA in organizing events to showcase GCF results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in climate change/environmental science, climate economics/finance, engineering, project finance, or a closely related discipline. They should have at least five years of experience in the public and/or private sector with a demonstrated focus on climate investment and initiatives for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Proven experience in institutional strengthening and capacity-building within developing economies is desirable, showcasing the ability to enhance stakeholders' capabilities in addressing climate change. Candidates should also have at least three years of experience in developing climate change proposals, demonstrating expertise in crafting impactful funding applications and monitoring climate initiatives. Familiarity with the GCF, including operational mechanisms and funding modalities, will be an asset. Strong interpersonal skills, excellent communication abilities, and a commitment to ethical standards are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a postgraduate degree in a relevant field such as climate change, environmental science, climate economics, finance, engineering, or project finance. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate finance and the necessary skills to effectively engage with stakeholders and develop impactful climate initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the public or private sector, with a strong focus on climate investment and initiatives aimed at climate change mitigation and adaptation. Additionally, candidates should have at least three years of experience in successfully developing climate change proposals, showcasing their ability to create compelling funding applications and monitor climate initiatives effectively. Experience addressing climate change issues specifically in Kiribati is highly desirable, as it provides a deep understanding of local contexts and challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all applications and communications will be conducted in English. Proficiency in I’Kiribati or other United Nations languages is highly desirable and will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with local stakeholders and communities effectively.

Additional Notes:
The GCF Liaison Officer will be based in Tarawa, Kiribati, operating from the offices of the NDA. The initial assignment is for 11 months and 29 days, with a maximum of 180 working days, and there is a possibility of extension based on annual performance evaluations and continued funding availability. Preference will be given to nationals or residents of Kiribati for this position. Candidates are required to indicate their earliest availability and notice period if currently employed. The closing date for applications is 18 April 2025, at 23:59 Korea Standard Time (KST). Applications submitted after this date may not be considered. Individuals currently employed as civil servants are not eligible to participate in this procurement process. Applications from women and citizens from developing countries are strongly encouraged.