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 foundational skills and capacities to secure and manage climate financing effectively. The GCF's 2024-2027 strategy for the Readiness Programme introduces a placement scheme for local experts, known as GCF Liaison Officers, to enhance engagement with the GCF and facilitate the development of programming capacities for achieving national climate objectives.

Job Overview:
The GCF Liaison Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical and administrative support to the National Designated Authority (NDA) or relevant agency in Grenada regarding all matters related to GCF climate action. This position requires close coordination with various stakeholders involved in GCF activities to ensure seamless execution of country programming, accreditation, readiness support conceptualization, project preparation, and implementation. The officer will be instrumental in enhancing the capacity of the NDA and relevant agencies to plan, develop, and implement climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives. Additionally, the officer will support the NDA in developing and implementing GCF country programmes, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and raise awareness about GCF funding windows, policies, and processes. The role is designed to ensure effective knowledge transfer and skill development among local stakeholders and communities, ultimately contributing to the achievement of national climate objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The GCF Liaison Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities to ensure the successful implementation of the placement scheme. These include supporting the development of the Grenada country programme in alignment with GCF guidance, coordinating consultative processes to identify key areas for results related to the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and assisting in the identification of potential partners for the country programme. The officer will also engage with the NDA to co-develop terms of reference for readiness support, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and assist in completing the Financial Management Capacity Assessment (FMCA) form as required. Furthermore, the officer will contribute to capacity-building efforts by imparting skills and knowledge to the NDA and relevant stakeholders, provide guidance on GCF policies and procedures, and assist in the development of project ideas and funding proposals. Regular communication with accredited entities and the GCF Secretariat will be essential to ensure timely reporting and resolution of any issues that may arise during the implementation of GCF investments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university or tertiary level degree in climate change, environmental science, climate economics, finance, engineering, project finance, or a closely related discipline. They should have experience in the public or private sector, focusing on climate investment and financing initiatives for climate change mitigation and adaptation. A minimum of 8 years of experience is required for candidates with an undergraduate degree, or 5 years for those with a Master's degree or higher. Candidates should demonstrate in-country experience in developing concept notes and proposals for accessing climate financing and implementing climate change initiatives. An in-depth understanding of the national institutional context and the ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders is essential. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, along with outstanding presentation abilities, are necessary for effective dissemination of information. Familiarity with GCF operational mechanisms and funding modalities is an asset, and candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical standards, including integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university or tertiary level degree in fields related to climate change, environmental science, climate economics, finance, engineering, project finance, or a closely related discipline. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate financing and the implementation of climate action initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in the field of climate investment and financing initiatives. Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience if they hold an undergraduate degree, or at least 5 years if they possess a Master's degree or higher. This experience should include demonstrated in-country involvement in developing concept notes and proposals for accessing climate financing, as well as implementing full project cycle climate change initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages or other United Nations languages is highly desirable, as it can enhance communication and engagement with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The GCF Liaison Officer will be based in Saint George’s, Grenada, operating from the offices of the NDA or relevant agency. 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 Grenada for this position. Candidates are required to indicate their earliest availability and notice period if currently employed. The closing date for applications is 31 May 2025, at 12:00 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 must be submitted in English, and women and citizens from developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply.