UNEP Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) - Sustainable Finance and Client-Facing Banking Professional

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) is a strategic partnership between the UN and over 500 financial institutions. It drives the international sustainable finance agenda, setting global standards and fostering a network of leading institutions. This role supports the Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) worktrack, focusing on client engagement regarding sustainability impacts, risks, and opportunities.

Job Purpose

This role aims to bridge sustainability expertise with front-office banking realities, supporting banks in translating sustainability ambitions into practical client engagement and business opportunities. The professional will help connect business units and sustainability functions within banks, ensuring commitments lead to tangible actions, products, and client engagements. The purpose is to strengthen client engagement practices within the banking sector, contributing to the real economy transition by helping banks support their clients' sustainability journeys. The role will lead, strategically advise, and participate in key workstreams of the PRB initiative, focusing on practical implementation and fostering a community of client-facing practitioners.

Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate strategic workstreams under the PRB client engagement initiative, focusing on sectors like agriculture, digital infrastructure, and SMEs. Develop commercially relevant approaches for sustainability engagement, highlighting business opportunities, risks, and transition dynamics. Support banks in embedding sustainability into client coverage, product development, portfolio management, and risk processes. Build and grow a practitioner network through peer exchanges and workshops, identifying emerging needs and fostering collaboration. Facilitate stronger collaboration between sustainability, strategy, risk, and front-office teams within banks by creating practical materials like engagement scripts and training modules. Develop concise outputs from workstream activities, including sector guidance and client engagement tools. Liaise with external partners to integrate relevant expertise and collaborate with other UNEP FI teams to support the broader banking strategy.

Work Experience

At least seven years of experience in a commercial banking role (corporate, SME, or investment banking), preferably client-facing, is required. Demonstrated expertise in sustainable finance, ESG integration, or sustainability strategy is necessary. Experience in dealing with commercial clients, including those from high-impact/risk sectors and SMEs, is valuable.

Skills

Client-Facing & Commercial Mindset, Sustainable Finance & Banking Expertise, Stakeholder Engagement & Network Building, Excellent written and verbal communication, Strong organizational and project management capabilities, Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

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