Mountain Biodiversity Specialist - Level B

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and promoting sustainable development. The Ecosystems Division collaborates with partners on environmental policy and capacity building. This role is within the Biodiversity, People and Landscapes Unit in Vienna, supporting the "Vanishing Treasures" project.

Job Purpose

This role contributes to the "Vanishing Treasures" project by focusing on its global advocacy and communication components. The purpose is to deliver against project outputs and milestones, advocating for the mainstreaming of mountain biodiversity within international processes like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The project aims to enhance climate change adaptation for vulnerable mountain species, improve ecosystem services, protect flagship species, and promote alternative livelihoods for local communities, aligning with global biodiversity frameworks.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include conceptualizing and designing thematic sessions on mountain biodiversity, including financing, and developing detailed event plans. This involves co-organizing events at international forums such as CBD COP17. The role requires providing input for dialogues on mountain ecosystems and freshwater, preparing background materials for consultations and high-level meetings, and developing innovative communication products to showcase project achievements. Additionally, responsibilities include drafting project proposals for upscaling solutions in regions like the Hindu-Kush Himalayas and facilitating regional consultations with stakeholders to review proposals and gather feedback.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in project/programme management at national and/or international levels, preferably in the Asia-Pacific region, is required. Experience in global advocacy and policy mainstreaming, particularly related to biodiversity (e.g., CBD, MEAs), is essential. Experience managing projects or events in biodiversity conservation or ecosystem restoration is desirable.

Skills

Project/programme management, global advocacy, policy mainstreaming, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, event organization, communication product development, proposal drafting, stakeholder engagement, research, environmental science, wildlife management.

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