Urban Food Systems Consultant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. This consultancy supports UNEP's Urban Food Systems team, focusing on SDG 12.3 delivery and sustainable food consumption in cities. The role is based in Paris and contributes to global cooperation and technical support for member states.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to enhance the delivery of UNEP's mandate on food loss and waste, and sustainable food consumption within urban environments. The role will support the operationalization of the Food Waste Breakthrough Roadmap, contribute to the Initiative on Climate Action and Nutrition (I-CAN), and assist with fundraising for new projects. It involves coordinating advocacy efforts for key international days, supporting the One Planet Network Sustainable Food Systems Programme, and providing thought leadership on circular food systems. The position is crucial for fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among member states, cities, and food system stakeholders to achieve global food waste reduction targets.

Responsibilities

Support the operationalization of the Food Waste Breakthrough Roadmap, including capacity building and knowledge sharing on food waste prevention. Manage day-to-day activities for the Initiative on Climate Action and Nutrition (I-CAN). Assist with fundraising, including initiating new GEF Food Waste projects and developing GEF country projects. Contribute to the One Planet Network Sustainable Food Systems Programme, organizing meetings and supporting communities of practice. Provide coordination services for the Food is Never Waste Coalition, facilitating meetings and developing strategy. Develop and implement multi-stakeholder advocacy approaches for International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste and other relevant events. Support publication development and launch activities. Provide thought leadership on circular food systems in cities. Maintain and update the stopfoodlosswaste.org portal. Manage administrative and reporting processes.

Work Experience

A minimum of 1 year of previous working experience in research or programme coordination is required, preferably with a focus on food waste, circularity, and urban food systems. Prior experience or exposure to working with UN agencies is desirable. Demonstrated ability in coordinating and implementing food waste and urban food systems projects, including advocacy and fundraising, is needed.

Skills

Programme coordination, Food waste reduction, Circular food systems, Urban food systems, Advocacy, Fundraising, Stakeholder engagement, Project implementation, Research, Knowledge sharing, Communication (English fluency required; Spanish, Portuguese, or Japanese desirable).

Explore related opportunities