Senior Programme Manager [Senior Advisor]

Organizational Context

UNOPS' Development and Special Initiatives team supports UN partners and Member States in achieving the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals. This role is part of a project with the Executive Office of the Secretary-General (EOSG) to implement the Climate Action Team (CAT) Project, focusing on critical climate action strategies and initiatives.

Job Purpose

The Senior Programme Manager's role is crucial for the success and visibility of the Climate Action Team (CAT) Project, ensuring its alignment with overarching UN priorities. The incumbent directly influences the development and performance of the CAT by providing strategic advice and coordinating transition activities during a period of UN leadership change. This ensures continuity of climate action efforts and maintains momentum on critical global climate goals, directly impacting the UN's agenda and its ability to address climate breakdown.

Responsibilities

The Senior Programme Manager will advise the Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) on transition priorities, sequencing, and political sensitivities. Key duties include developing and executing a comprehensive transition strategy in consultation with stakeholders, leading multi-stakeholder consultations, and serving as an interlocutor between transition teams on climate matters. The role also involves identifying and coordinating the CAT's engagements across the UN system to ensure coherent approaches and seeking opportunities to institutionalize the CAT's work within UN structures. Additionally, the manager will support and advise the ASG on political engagements with Member States, providing substantive analysis and strategic advice.

Work Experience

Requires relevant professional experience in policy, climate, political affairs, human rights, and/or development. Essential experience includes providing strategic advice and direct support to a senior UN official on climate, peace, security, human rights, humanitarian, or development issues, with at least five years within the UN system. Experience in UNHQ departments, EOSG, institutional transitions, or inter-agency coordination is highly desirable.

Skills

Climate, Communication, Human Rights, Partnerships, Program Management, Strategic Advice, Political Engagement, Stakeholder Consultation, UN System Coordination.

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