SENIOR PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT OFFICER

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and promoting sustainable development within the UN system. This role is based in UNEP's Southern Africa Sub-Regional Office in Pretoria, South Africa, focusing on addressing environmental issues and supporting SADC countries in tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Job Purpose

This Senior Programme Management Officer role supports UNEP's mandate in the Southern Africa region by developing and implementing programmatic work. The incumbent will engage with governments, UN entities, and regional bodies to foster cooperation and align with UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks. Key functions include facilitating South-South cooperation, capacity building, technology transfer, and resource mobilization through strategic partnerships with donors and governments. The role also involves communication and liaison to ensure UNEP's visibility and effective response to emerging environmental issues, contributing to the region's sustainable development goals.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement the Programme of Work for the Southern Africa region, maintaining contact with governments and identifying national priorities. Coordinate cooperation with UN entities, representing UNEP in UN Country Teams and UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks. Engage with key stakeholders including government counterparts, regional bodies, UN Country Teams, and donors. Facilitate South-South cooperation, capacity building, and technology transfer with South Africa and other SADC countries. Mobilize resources by developing strategic partnerships, mapping donors, and researching funding opportunities. Maintain communication and liaison with the UNEP Africa Regional Office, facilitating timely responses to environmental issues and enhancing UNEP's visibility. Manage administrative and operational matters, including budgeting and office management, and support the Regional Director's Team.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of experience in environmental or natural resources management is required, with at least five years at the international level. Experience within a UN context or similar international organization in a developing region is desirable, as is experience in implementing environmental policies, working with UN Country Teams, resource mobilization, and data analytics.

Skills

Professionalism, communication, teamwork, leadership, performance management, UN system knowledge, data analysis, programme management, resource mobilization, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, capacity building, technology transfer.

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