Associate Programme Management Officer

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD), administered by UNEP and located in Montreal, Canada, focuses on conservation, sustainable use, and equitable benefit sharing of biological diversity. This role is within the SCBD's Scientific, Society and Sustainable Futures Division.

Job Purpose

This role provides substantive support for the implementation and management of the Programme of Work on Article 8(j) of the Convention on Biological Diversity, with a specific focus on traditional knowledge and indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs). The incumbent will support meeting preparation and servicing, manage partnerships, disseminate information, and provide technical advice. The position also contributes to developing outreach and partnerships, assisting Parties and stakeholders in Convention implementation, and supporting capacity-building activities related to traditional knowledge. Furthermore, the role involves data collection, analysis, and reporting to inform planning and decision-making.

Responsibilities

Provide substantive support for the implementation and management of the Programme of Work on Article 8(j), focusing on traditional knowledge and IPLCs. This includes supporting the preparation and servicing of meetings, managing partnership initiatives, and producing/disseminating relevant information. Offer technical advice to Parties and Secretariat staff on mainstreaming Articles 8(j) and 10(c), and support fundraising for the Voluntary Fund for IPLCs. Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with IPLCs, NGOs, and international agencies to support Article 8(j) work. Disseminate guidelines, publications, and training materials for IPLCs, and enhance web content related to Article 8(j). Assist Parties and stakeholders in implementing the Convention, particularly concerning traditional knowledge, and contribute to awareness-raising activities. Document and develop partnerships for capacity-building activities on traditional knowledge. Collect, analyze, and synthesize data, identifying trends and providing insights for data-driven planning and reporting. Undertake other assigned activities.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of progressive experience in programme/project management, policy development, environmental governance, or engagement with indigenous peoples and local communities is required. Experience supporting international biodiversity or sustainable development programs, conducting research and analysis for intergovernmental processes, and organizing international meetings is also required. Experience in data analytics, within the UN system, and working with indigenous peoples/local communities or traditional knowledge systems is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, knowledge of biodiversity and environmental management, policy development, traditional knowledge, data analysis and interpretation, planning and organizing, teamwork, communication, and partnership building.

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