Senior Programme Manager - Non-State Actor Engagement

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS, established as a central resource of the United Nations, is dedicated to supporting partners in building a better future through efficient, effective, and sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services. The organization operates in approximately 125 countries, providing services to governments, donors, and various UN organizations. The New York Portfolio Office (NYPO) specifically supports the United Nations Secretariat and other New York-based UN organizations in delivering UNOPS's mandate. The Sustainable Development Cluster (SDC) within UNOPS focuses on peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development operations, combining various portfolios to serve partners with a global perspective.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Manager will play a crucial role in supporting the Climate Action Team (CAT) Project, which aims to address the urgent climate crisis by facilitating the development of ambitious climate commitments from non-state and sub-national actors. The incumbent will work closely with the Assistant Secretary-General for Climate Action, providing senior-level support and guidance on strategies that align with the goals of the Paris Agreement. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for showcasing leadership in climate action, monitoring trends in non-state actor activities, and building networks with various stakeholders to advance the Secretary-General's climate action strategy. The role also involves preparing briefing notes, key messages, and inputs for high-level engagements, ensuring that climate action plans are integrated and inclusive, and advocating for the operationalization of climate finance mechanisms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for designing and developing targeted strategies to support non-state and sub-national actor climate commitments, monitoring and analyzing trends in non-state actor activities, and building networks with business groups and financial institutions. They will also liaise with key stakeholders, including the Secretary-General’s special climate envoys and the UN Framework on Climate Change Secretariat, to ensure alignment with the Secretary-General’s climate action strategy. Additional responsibilities include developing recommendations and briefing materials for senior engagements, horizon scanning for relevant documents, and performing other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's) in International Relations, Public Policy, or a related field, with at least ten years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's) with twelve years of relevant experience is acceptable. Relevant experience includes professional experience in programme/project management, particularly in coordinating climate initiatives and building coalitions. Candidates should also have experience in strengthening relationships with Member States and non-state actors, as well as synthesizing and communicating technical findings to diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's) in International Relations, Public Policy, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's) is acceptable if accompanied by additional years of relevant experience. The educational background should be closely related to the responsibilities of the position, emphasizing the importance of understanding international relations and public policy in the context of climate action.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in programme/project management, with a strong emphasis on climate initiatives and coalition building. Experience in identifying and leveraging relationships with Member States and non-state actors is essential. Desirable experience includes working with standards for measuring climate commitments and direct engagement with the private sector and subnational organizations. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to communicate technical and policy findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Languages:
Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking) is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's global mission.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) at the International level (I-ICA 4/ICS12). The contract duration is ongoing, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. The initial contract is set for one year, with possibilities for extension. UNOPS encourages diversity and strongly encourages qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. The organization emphasizes equal employment opportunities and an inclusive working environment.