Senior Coordination Officer
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The Ecosystems Division supports environmental policy implementation and capacity building in developing countries. The Regional Seas Programme, established in 1974, includes 146 countries. The Cartagena Convention, for the Wider Caribbean Region, provides a legal framework for marine and coastal environment protection. The Regional Coordinating Unit (UNEP-CAR/RCU) in Kingston, Jamaica, serves as the Secretariat for this Convention.
Job Purpose
This role serves as UNEP's focal point and coordinator for the Caribbean Environment Programme and the Secretariat of the Cartagena Convention. The incumbent will ensure the implementation of the Convention and its Protocols by coordinating activities, preparing meetings, and liaising with Parties, governments, and stakeholders. The purpose is to facilitate cooperation for the protection and sustainable development of the marine and coastal environment in the Wider Caribbean Region, aligning with UNEP's mandate and decisions from the Conference of the Parties. This includes managing the Regional Coordinating Unit, overseeing financial contributions, and supporting fundraising efforts to ensure effective program delivery and project management.
Responsibilities
Coordinate UNEP's Caribbean Environment Programme and the Cartagena Convention Secretariat, ensuring adherence to the Convention and its Protocols. Supervise meeting preparations for Contracting Parties and translate decisions into action plans. Liaise with Parties, governments, donors, and international organizations in the Wider Caribbean Region. Coordinate activities between the Regional Coordinating Unit and Regional Activity Centres for cohesive deliverables. Manage host country relations with Jamaica and participate in UN Country Team meetings. Support UNEP's Regional Seas Programme and coordinate with other environmental agreements. Oversee the administration and financial management of the Regional Coordinating Unit, including managing the Caribbean Trust Fund and guiding Parties on contributions. Develop and implement fundraising strategies. Coordinate and manage GEF and other subregional projects. Ensure gender mainstreaming in all activities. Lead data collection and analysis for planning and reporting, promoting data accessibility and sharing.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of progressive experience in planning, implementing, and managing marine and coastal programs and policies at national, regional, or international levels is required. This includes at least five years in intergovernmental processes and five years managing large marine environment projects. Three years of resource mobilization experience is also required. Experience in data analytics is desirable.
Skills
Programme and project management; Strategic guidance; Regional partnership coordination; Intergovernmental processes; Financial management; Fundraising; Project management (GEF, Global Funds); Gender mainstreaming; Data analysis and interpretation; Leadership; Teamwork; Planning and organizing; Judgment and decision-making.