Manager Sustainable Land Management

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in India has been a key partner since 1951, working across human development sectors. The current Country Programme (2023-2027) focuses on strengthening institutions for SDGs, enhancing economic opportunities and social protection, and promoting climate-smart solutions. The Action for Climate and Environment (ACE) Unit, within which this role sits, addresses climate change, natural resource management, and biodiversity conservation, supporting national and international commitments.

Job Purpose

This Manager role is crucial for leading and coordinating projects focused on Biodiversity, Land Restoration, Forestry, and Wildlife Conservation, anchored within a key Ministry. The purpose is to ensure effective planning, resource mobilization, proposal development, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of these initiatives. The role requires strong engagement with the Ministry and other stakeholders, liaising with government officials and UNDP to achieve project goals and deliverables. Based in New Delhi, the position directly supports the Senior Advisor and Team Lead – Action for Climate and Environment (ACE) at UNDP India, contributing to sustainable development and reaching marginalized communities.

Responsibilities

Provide technical support for project implementation, including LDN projects and initiatives in biodiversity, land restoration, forestry, and wildlife conservation. Coordinate annual work plans with national and state project units, and lead the development of national/regional LDN strategies. Oversee technical project activities, ensuring alignment with goals and UNDP outcomes, and develop mitigation plans for land degradation drivers. Monitor project progress, ensuring accurate and timely reporting per donor guidelines, and facilitate project audits. Manage project procurement and contract execution. Prepare various progress reports for steering committees, UNDP, and GEF. Conduct field visits for progress tracking and corrective actions. Ensure compliance with UNDP/GEF Social and Environmental Standards and facilitate the implementation of Gender Action and Stakeholder Engagement Plans. Develop strategic partnerships with implementing partners, government, NGOs, and other stakeholders. Support resource mobilization and project development efforts. Facilitate knowledge management, capacity building, and communication through success stories and knowledge products.

Work Experience

Requires demonstrated experience as a project manager or technical expert in at least two projects related to climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, land restoration, or natural resource management, including team management. Experience in resource mobilization for conservation projects, proposal development, and reporting is essential. Familiarity with UN/GEF project management policies and procedures is necessary.

Skills

Proficiency in MS Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word), advanced spreadsheet and database management, research skills. Strong writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement abilities. Experience working with local communities. Fluency in Hindi and English.

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