Director, Global Land Initiative G20 Office

Organizational Context

The UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is a key international agreement addressing land degradation. The G20 Global Initiative on Reducing Land Degradation and Enhancing Conservation of Terrestrial Habitats, launched in 2020, aims to halve degraded land by 2040. This role manages the Initiative's Coordination Office, providing strategic leadership and oversight under the UNCCD Executive Director.

Job Purpose

This role is responsible for managing the G20 Global Initiative Coordination Office, advancing the global ambition to reduce land degradation by 50% by 2040. The Director provides strategic leadership, political engagement, and program oversight, fostering multilateral cooperation, policy dialogue, partnerships, and resource mobilization. Key functions include coordinating the Initiative's work program, leading high-level engagement with G20 member states and international organizations, facilitating negotiations, nurturing strategic partnerships, and providing policy advice. The role also involves resource mobilization, overseeing communication materials, and acting as secretary to the Initiative's governance structure, ensuring alignment with UNCCD objectives and global policy processes.

Responsibilities

Manage the Global Land Initiative's Coordination Office team and work program, ensuring coordination with UNCCD units. Coordinate and manage the substantive program of work, leading the development of innovative programs and advising on results-based management, budget, staffing, and resources. Lead high-level engagement with G20 member states, partner countries, and international organizations to advance policy priorities. Facilitate multilateral negotiations and intergovernmental processes related to sustainable land management and environmental governance. Identify, develop, and nurture strategic partnerships with governments, financial institutions, civil society, and the private sector. Provide strategic policy advice on global environmental governance and sustainable development. Act as secretary to the Initiative's governance, coordinating Steering Committee servicing and reporting to the G20. Assist in high-level advocacy, represent the Initiative at international meetings, and coordinate resource mobilization and fundraising. Oversee the preparation of analytical reports, policy briefs, and communication materials. Perform other related activities as required.

Work Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in sustainable development, multilateral diplomacy, or a related field is required. Extensive senior managerial experience with international negotiation, intergovernmental processes, and environmental governance is essential. Demonstrated leadership, strategic vision, and experience managing complex organizations and engaging with high-level officials are necessary. Experience with the UN system and establishing professional networks is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Partnership Building, Communication, Accountability, Leadership, Vision, Building Trust, Diplomacy, Stakeholder Engagement, Strategic Planning, Resource Mobilization, Policy Advice, Negotiation, Intergovernmental Processes.

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