Senior Coordination Officer
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The Nairobi Convention, part of the UNEP Regional Seas Programme, focuses on the Western Indian Ocean. This role is within UNEP's Ecosystems Division, Regional Seas Branch, based in Nairobi, reporting to the Chief of the Regional Seas Branch.
Job Purpose
This role leads the administration of the Nairobi Convention and its Secretariat, overseeing the development, implementation, and evaluation of programmes and projects. It involves directing subordinates, reviewing documents, identifying priorities, and proposing corrective actions. The position is responsible for preparing and convening meetings of Contracting Parties, transmitting official information, and executing functions outlined in the Convention's protocols. It also involves liaising with various stakeholders, supporting UNEP's Regional Seas Programme, and facilitating fundraising strategies to ensure the effective management and delivery of regional projects, including those funded by GEF and other global funds.
Responsibilities
Lead the administration of the Nairobi Convention and its Secretariat, including programme/project development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Direct and supervise staff, review relevant documents, identify issues, and propose solutions. Convene meetings of Contracting Parties and conferences, and transmit official notifications and reports. Execute functions assigned by Convention protocols and consult with Contracting Parties on related matters. Coordinate cooperative activities and manage overall administrative arrangements. Liaise with Parties, governments, stakeholders, donors, and international organizations. Support UNEP's Regional Seas Programme and UN Environment Assembly decisions. Facilitate fundraising strategies and coordinate the management of GEF and other funded projects. Ensure gender mainstreaming, support analysis, and document lessons learned. Provide analytical support for knowledge management strategies and supervise the preparation of technical publications. Oversee the management of a Clearing House Mechanism and coordinate regional policy development. Direct substantive support for meetings, manage outreach activities, and lead field missions. Provide financial management, coordinate budget and funding activities, and serve as a spokesperson. Ensure effective staff supervision, development, and performance management, promoting data-driven planning and decision-making.
Work Experience
Requires a minimum of ten years of progressive experience in planning, implementing, and managing marine and coastal programmes at national, regional, or international levels. Five years of experience in intergovernmental processes and five years managing large marine environment programmes/projects are essential. Three years of resource mobilization experience is required. Experience in data analytics is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Teamwork, Planning and Organizing, Leadership, Judgement/Decision-Making, ability to identify strategic issues, analyze data, negotiate, manage operations, and incorporate gender perspectives.