Adaptation Specialist and NAP technical lead

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO), based in Panama City, works to support countries in implementing climate change adaptation strategies aligned with the Paris Agreement and national commitments. This role contributes to the broader NAP portfolio in the region, focusing on technical guidance and knowledge sharing.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to provide technical guidance for the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) projects in Panama and El Salvador, contributing to the wider NAP portfolio in Latin America and the Caribbean. The role involves technical follow-up, knowledge sharing, and lessons learned dissemination. The Adaptation Specialist and NAP Technical Lead will support the effective implementation of adaptation strategies, coordinate inter-institutional linkages, track progress, and evaluate outcomes. The position also focuses on promoting private sector engagement and strengthening capacities for climate vulnerability and risk management, ensuring gender equity and women's empowerment are integrated into adaptation efforts.

Responsibilities

Provide technical expertise and guidance for the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) projects in Panama and El Salvador, and contribute to the broader NAP portfolio in Latin America and the Caribbean. Analyze opportunities for inter-institutional coordination to bolster adaptation strategies at the regional level. Liaise with NAP lead entities, government institutions, civil society, and the private sector. Establish and manage a mechanism to track adaptation progress, report advances, and evaluate outcomes, including the utilization of sex-disaggregated and gender-based indicators. Synthesize lessons learned and best practices, introducing innovations to enhance project performance. Provide technical advice on climate change adaptation, including strategies for gender equity, disaster risk reduction, and private sector engagement. Support the development of climate change adaptation financing strategies and mobilize public and private sector financing. Facilitate technical discussions and participatory processes with multiple stakeholders.

Work Experience

Two years of relevant work experience in environment, conservation, private sector engagement, or climate change activities is required. Experience in project management, resource mobilization, coordinating technical advice for national policies, and engaging with stakeholders at national and subnational levels in Latin America and the Caribbean is desirable. Understanding of climate finance and experience with international organizations are also beneficial.

Skills

Technical leadership in climate change adaptation concepts, principles, and policies. Ability to provide guidance on development planning related to climate adaptation. Excellent political, advisory, and facilitation skills. Ability to facilitate technical discussions and participatory processes with diverse stakeholders. Strategic perspective for product development and impact maximization. Professionalism, communication, teamwork, and planning/organizing competencies.

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