Director of the UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established to serve as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, UNEP operates through various divisions, including the Climate Change Division (CCD), which focuses on addressing climate change through mitigation and adaptation strategies. The UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre (UNEP-CCC) is a key institution within UNEP, specializing in research and advisory services related to energy, climate, and sustainable development. With a staff of approximately 60 professionals from over 20 countries, UNEP-CCC implements project activities in more than 60 countries, working collaboratively with international institutions, national governments, and research organizations to support developing nations in their transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient development.

Job Overview:
The Director of the UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre will provide strategic leadership and management for the Centre, ensuring alignment with UNEP's Climate Change Division priorities. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing a joint programming strategy that supports organizational excellence and world-class performance. This role involves engaging with various stakeholders, including Member States and partners, to enhance implementation capacity, access to finance and technology, and build resilience against climate change. The Director will also oversee fundraising efforts, manage resources, and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks while promoting sustainable development and effective climate policies. The position requires a proactive approach to thought leadership, alliance building, and advocacy within the climate community, as well as the ability to manage a diverse team and a significant budget.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for the management of the UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre, establishing priorities for targeted investments in growth and innovation.
• Lead the development of a joint programming strategy in alignment with UNEP's Medium-Term Strategy on the Climate Pillar.
• Develop and monitor an annual joint workplan and resource mobilization approach.
• Engage in fundraising and resource mobilization efforts with UN agencies, bilateral donors, and philanthropic institutions.
• Monitor implementation and oversee progress in reaching annual objectives.
• Plan and manage human, financial, and administrative resources to ensure financial sustainability.
• Guide the production of UNEP flagship reports and lead participation in UNFCCC Conferences of the Parties (COP).
• Build and strengthen strategic partnerships within the climate community.
• Manage recruitment and lead a team of over 60 consultants, overseeing a budget of approximately $13 million and a project portfolio of $80 million. 1
• Ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of UNEP-CCC programs and compliance with financial regulations. 1
• Foster a positive work environment that respects diversity and inclusion. 1
• Collect and analyze data to inform decision-making and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 15 years of experience in leadership positions, particularly in change management within an international context. Solid experience engaging with scientific and policy communities on climate change and sustainable development issues is essential. Proven experience in leading fundraising efforts with major international donors and foundations is required, along with experience in managing large teams. Familiarity with climate science linked to intergovernmental agreements on climate change is also necessary. Experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in engineering, environmental science, climate change, sustainable development, international relations, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of experience in leadership roles, with a strong background in change management, particularly in an international context. Candidates should have experience engaging with scientific and policy communities on climate change and sustainable development issues, as well as leading fundraising efforts with major international donors and foundations. Experience in managing large teams and familiarity with climate science linked to intergovernmental agreements on climate change is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable, as it can enhance communication and collaboration within the international context of the role.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension, contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as fixed-term appointment limited (FTA-limited). Candidates selected for this position will retain their current appointment status if they meet the definition of 'internal candidate' as per staff rule 4.1

• The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities may be provided to support participation in the recruitment process when requested.