Regional Biodiversity Specialist Consultant
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO) in Panama City supports 33 countries in implementing global environmental programs. This role supports the Nature Action Subprogramme, focusing on biodiversity and ecosystem management, and contributes to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The consultant will work with governments, UN agencies, the private sector, and academia to promote regional cooperation and action on environmental issues.
Job Purpose
The consultant will serve as the regional technical focal point for UNEP's Nature Action Subprogramme in Latin America and the Caribbean. This role is crucial for facilitating the effective implementation of biodiversity and ecosystem management initiatives across the region. Key contributions include strengthening regional collaboration, enhancing the implementation of biodiversity commitments, providing technical advice to intergovernmental bodies like the Forum of Ministers of Environment, supporting ecosystem restoration efforts, and developing project concepts and partnerships. The purpose is to advance UNEP's Programme of Work in the region by ensuring coordinated and impactful nature-related activities, contributing to conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of biodiversity.
Responsibilities
Serve as the regional technical focal point and advisor for UNEP's Nature Action Subprogramme in Latin America and the Caribbean. Contribute to the implementation of the subprogramme and the Regional Action Plan on Ecosystem Restoration. Provide technical advice to the Regional Nature Action Subprogramme Coordinator and support planning, programming, and implementation activities. Develop project concepts and proposals, and contribute to resource mobilization efforts. Collect, curate, and report information on nature-related activities. Conduct political, technical, and policy analyses related to biodiversity and ecosystem management. Collaborate with subregional and country offices to identify Member State needs and opportunities. Establish and maintain partnerships with UN agencies, MEA Secretariats, governments, academic institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders. Facilitate the implementation of biodiversity-related decisions of the Forum of Ministers of Environment, including providing technical guidance for its working groups.
Work Experience
A minimum of three years of progressively responsible professional experience in environmental affairs is required. Experience in developing, implementing, or coordinating initiatives related to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, or sustainable use of natural resources is necessary. Experience within the UN system or other international organizations is desirable, as is experience in stakeholder engagement, partnership-building, and intergovernmental processes.
Skills
Technical coordination, stakeholder engagement, partnership development, knowledge management, intergovernmental support, programme development, resource mobilization, technical advice, policy analysis, project concept development, communication, collaboration, planning, organizing, client orientation, professionalism.