Consultant Specialist in Climate Finance

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) seeks a Consultant Specialist in Climate Finance to support the effective implementation of project outcomes related to climate change adaptation. This role will contribute to developing and integrating adaptation strategies into national and sectoral planning and budgeting processes within Panama.

Job Purpose

The Consultant Specialist in Climate Finance will play a crucial role in advancing Panama's climate change adaptation efforts. The purpose of this role is to develop and implement strategies for mobilizing and managing climate finance, ensuring that adaptation measures are integrated into national and sectoral plans and budgets. This involves establishing working groups, conducting financial analyses, developing financing strategies, and facilitating stakeholder engagement to secure funding and build capacity for adaptation. The ultimate goal is to enhance Panama's resilience to climate change by strengthening its financial architecture and investment in adaptation.

Responsibilities

Establish and coordinate six thematic working groups focused on key sectors for climate adaptation. Conduct screening analyses of development plans and budgets against climate change risks. Develop six thematic adaptation mainstreaming strategies, recommending integration into sectoral planning and budgets. Organize and facilitate stakeholder workshops for strategy development and validation. Consult with national and international financing partners to identify funding opportunities. Develop a comprehensive Climate Change Adaptation Financing Strategy, including funding needs, options, mobilization mechanisms, and expenditure tracking. Assess and propose recommendations for the National Adaptation Fund. Coordinate with the Private Sector Engagement Consultant to integrate financial instruments and business models. Facilitate the validation of the financing strategy with relevant national bodies.

Work Experience

Requires at least five years of relevant working experience in climate finance mobilization, including developing financing strategies and engaging public, private, and external financing resources. Experience in climate finance, adaptation finance, project development, and working with diverse stakeholders from public, private, and financial sectors is desirable. Experience in developing climate change policies and integrating costs into national planning is also beneficial.

Skills

Ability to identify financial information gaps and propose solutions. Skills in building partnerships, facilitating dialogue, and resolving conflicts in multisectoral settings. Capacity to assess and design financial instruments and blended finance mechanisms. Strong analytical, reporting, and communication skills. Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively. Proficiency in Spanish is required; English proficiency is desirable.

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