National Climate Finance Expert

Organizational Context

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) Readiness Project in Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) aims to enhance institutional capacity for designing, implementing, and financing climate-resilient projects. FAO serves as the Delivery Partner, collaborating with the National Designated Authority (NDA) - the Department of Planning and Finance (DPC) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE). The project focuses on capacity building, strategic frameworks, pipeline development, and knowledge sharing to support climate action.

Job Purpose

The National Climate Finance Expert will play a key role in updating the GCF Country Programme for Lao PDR (2024-2027) as the primary drafter. This involves conducting desk reviews of national policies and providing technical support for the prioritization of the GCF project pipeline, ensuring alignment with the GCF Strategic Plan. The expert will also contribute to developing a Climate Finance Guidebook covering various funding mechanisms and support national context inputs for the Readiness Needs Assessment and Funding Proposal development for the Environment Protection Fund.

Responsibilities

The role involves conducting a desk review of national policies (NDC, NCCS, NSEDP) and the existing GCF Country Programme to produce an updated version for 2024-2027. This includes mapping and reviewing GCF pipeline concepts against national priorities and GCF criteria, and identifying new project opportunities. The expert will research and assist in drafting a Climate Finance Guidebook in English and Lao, covering GCF, GEF, Adaptation Fund, and bilateral mechanisms, ensuring it is practical and context-specific. Additionally, the role requires providing technical support for consultation workshops related to the Country Programme update, Readiness Needs Assessment, and PFES pilot implementation, ensuring gender-inclusive participation and documenting lessons learned. Coordination with FAO personnel and contribution to project progress reports are also key responsibilities.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant experience in climate finance, climate change policy, or development finance within Lao PDR is necessary. Experience in policy analysis, strategic framework development, and facilitating multi-stakeholder workshops is also essential.

Skills

Key skills include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Proficiency in GCF programming, understanding of national policy frameworks and strategic planning processes, and experience in developing climate investment plans or adaptation/mitigation projects are crucial. Experience in conducting desk reviews, policy analysis, and facilitating consultation workshops is also required.

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