Climate Finance Specialist
Organizational Context
The UNOPS Global Portfolios Office (GPO) supports sustainable development and climate action globally. The Water, Environment and Climate (WEC) portfolio, part of GPO, manages significant funds for environmental initiatives. The NDC Partnership, jointly hosted by UNOPS, WRI, and UNFCCC, strengthens country-led climate and development action by aligning partner support and generating evidence for effective NDC implementation.
Job Purpose
This role provides technical advisory services to the Kingdom of Eswatini to enhance climate finance mobilization, strengthen the national capacity and enabling environment for climate action, and translate Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0 priorities into actionable, fundable programs. The objective is to foster climate-resilient and low-carbon development pathways by improving the country's ability to access and manage external climate finance, develop a robust NDC Investment Plan and Finance Strategy, and identify bankable project proposals. The specialist will also promote mitigation and adaptation actions, build in-country capacity, and strengthen coordination among stakeholders.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include leading the technical screening and appraisal of climate-resilient proposals to ensure bankability and alignment with Eswatini's NDC, and preparing high-quality concept notes and project proposals for various funding sources. The role involves coordinating bankable project documentation, including safeguards and gender mainstreaming, and maintaining a pipeline of potential funding sources. Additionally, the specialist will support the integration of climate change into national planning and budgeting, adapt policy frameworks, and provide technical support for the operationalization of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Capacity building through needs assessments and training programs, along with facilitating collaboration among ministries, agencies, and partners, are crucial. The role also requires regular reporting, producing advisory notes, and contributing to knowledge management and exchange.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in climate policy development and program management within climate change, energy, or related fields is required. Demonstrated expertise in climate finance, grant proposal writing, and capacity building is essential. Experience in resource mobilization, stakeholder engagement with government and donors, and developing knowledge products is also necessary. Experience with blended finance or public-private partnerships is desirable.
Skills
Analytical Skills, Capacity Building, Communication, Donor Engagement, Fundraising, Natural Resource Management, Partnerships, Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement