Individual Contractor for NBSAP Accelerator Partnership

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. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since grown to become a pivotal organization in addressing environmental issues globally. It operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various environmental initiatives. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The Ecosystems Division of UNEP engages with governments and other partners to develop and promote ecosystem-based solutions for sustainable development, focusing on biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Contractor for the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership involves supporting the project 'Accelerating systemic change for gender equality and biodiversity conservation through NBSAPs'. This project aims to facilitate the development and implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) in a country-driven approach, ensuring that partner countries receive effective support in their implementation efforts. The contractor will play a vital role in the administration of the project, ensuring that it runs smoothly and adheres to donor and UNEP requirements. The contractor will assist in contract administration, budget and finance management, and general administrative tasks, contributing to the overall success of the project. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations. The contractor will also be involved in monitoring and evaluation activities, ensuring that the project's objectives are met and that learnings are shared across the participating countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Individual Contractor include:

• Contract Administration: Assisting with the day-to-day administration of contracts between the UN and external contractors, including managing six Small Scale Funding Agreements and one Project Cooperation Agreement. This involves processing payment requests, monitoring payments and disbursement of funds, and advising implementing partners on financial reporting requirements.
• Budget and Finance: Preparing supporting documents for cost estimates and budget proposals, finalizing financial reports for donor reporting, and monitoring expenditures against the approved budget. The contractor will also prepare customized financial reports and coordinate with finance and budget staff on related issues.
• General Administration: Performing various administrative duties such as assisting in travel logistics, monitoring accounts and payments, organizing seminars and conferences, and supporting monitoring and evaluation efforts.
• Secondary Tasks: Providing additional administrative support as required and performing other related duties as assigned. The contractor will be expected to maintain a high level of organization and attention to detail in all tasks.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a university degree, either a bachelor's or advanced degree, in a relevant field. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of experience in administrative services, finance, accounting, audit, or a related area is required. Experience in programme and administrative support within the UN system is desirable, as it provides valuable insight into the operational processes and requirements of UN projects. The contractor should possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. Proficiency in financial management and reporting is essential, along with the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree, which can be either a bachelor's degree or an advanced degree in a relevant field such as finance, business administration, or environmental studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of project management, financial reporting, and administrative processes within the context of international development and environmental conservation.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in administrative services, finance, accounting, audit, or a related area. This experience should ideally include work within the United Nations system or similar international organizations, as familiarity with UN processes and procedures is highly beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of providing effective administrative and financial support in a project environment, showcasing their ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities efficiently.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, a working knowledge of another UN language, particularly French or Spanish, is considered an advantage. This multilingual capability is important for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and for participating in international discussions and collaborations.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of 5 months, with the possibility of extension depending on project needs and funding availability. The contractor will be engaged on a full-time basis, and the role is primarily administrative in nature, focusing on supporting the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership project. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the hiring process is transparent and accessible to all qualified candidates.