Consultant Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus and keeping the global environment under review. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges. Its mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to inspire and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Job Overview:
The Consultant Specialist position is focused on providing expertise in Environment and Social (E&S) risk and impact management, particularly in support of the Pro-Congo program. This program aims to create positive impacts on tropical forest conservation and restoration, emission removals and reductions, job creation, and biodiversity protection in the Congo Basin countries. The consultant will work closely with various partners and UNEP teams to develop and implement E&S management systems, conduct gender analyses, and support capacity building initiatives. The role requires a strong understanding of E&S risks in land use finance and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including vulnerable communities and SMEs in the region. The consultant will also be responsible for monitoring and analyzing impact data to ensure effective reporting and communication of the program's outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will perform specialized tasks under the supervision of the E&S Lead of the Climate Finance Unit. Key responsibilities include: developing the Pro-Congo gender analysis and action plan, creating the Pro-Congo E&S Management System, supporting deal reviews and due diligence processes, assisting companies in monitoring their carbon emission reductions, and conducting topic analyses across various impact areas. Additionally, the consultant will support capacity building efforts by developing training materials, designing and delivering workshops, and synthesizing key topics related to sustainable land use finance. The consultant will also be involved in collecting and analyzing impact data for reporting purposes and will participate in regular team meetings and strategic planning sessions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in environmental studies and/or development studies. A parallel qualification in business and finance is desirable. At least five years of working experience in agriculture-forestry-land use systems, E&S risks and safeguards in land use finance, and E&S impact monitoring and reporting is required. Knowledge of international best practices in E&S risk management, particularly in gender mainstreaming and the inclusion of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and local communities (LCs), is essential. Field experience and a strong network in the Congo Basin, specifically in the countries involved in the Pro-Congo project, are also required. Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills in English are necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent in environmental studies and/or development studies is required for this position. Candidates with additional qualifications in business and finance will be given preference, as this knowledge is beneficial for understanding the financial aspects of environmental projects and investments.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant working experience in areas such as agriculture-forestry-land use systems, E&S risks and safeguards in land use finance, and E&S impact monitoring and reporting. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with diverse stakeholders and managing E&S risks effectively, particularly in the context of nature-based solutions investments.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and French is mandatory for this consulting position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders involved in the Pro-Congo program.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is six months, and the position is based in Kinshasa, DRC, with potential collaboration with teams in Geneva. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.