Capacity-building Expert

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The CITES Secretariat, administered by UNEP and located in Geneva, is an international agreement ensuring trade in endangered species does not threaten their survival. This role supports the CITES Secretariat's implementation of the capacity-building framework programme of work.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to support the CITES Secretariat in developing an integrated capacity-building framework. The role will involve preparing a background paper, conducting a survey of CITES Parties on capacity-building needs and approaches, analyzing survey results, and preparing materials for regional consultations and workshops. The ultimate goal is to improve the implementation of the Convention by establishing a common language and clear definitions for capacity-building, ensuring diverse regional and stakeholder perspectives are represented.

Responsibilities

The consultant will prepare a background paper mapping existing CITES capacity-building activities, reviewing relevant frameworks from other organizations, and identifying best practices. A survey will be developed and administered to CITES Parties to gather data on current support, priority needs, gaps, and preferred approaches. Survey results will be analyzed, and a summary report will be produced. Additionally, the consultant will assist in organizing regional consultations and/or technical workshops to support the framework development process.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in capacity-building, institutional strengthening, or related fields within international environmental governance is required. Experience in conducting analytical reviews, mapping exercises, comparative assessments, and designing/analyzing surveys is essential. Familiarity with multilateral environmental agreements, particularly CITES, is desirable.

Skills

Strong technical expertise in capacity-building frameworks. Ability to conduct analytical reviews, mapping, and comparative assessments. Proven experience in survey design, administration, and analysis. Skills in qualitative data analysis and synthesis. Knowledge of CITES or other multilateral environmental agreements. Professionalism, client orientation, planning, organizing, and creativity are essential competencies.

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