Associate Programme Officer

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) provides leadership and fosters partnerships for environmental care, aiming to improve quality of life without compromising future generations. For five decades, UNEP has advocated for the environment, ensuring science guides decision-making and environmental law underpins governance. Despite progress, unprecedented environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, threaten human health, prosperity, equity, and peace. UNEP, with its Member States and partners, leads the transformation needed to address this triple planetary crisis.

Job Purpose

The Associate Programme Officer will support UNEP's Country Office in India by managing day-to-day communications and follow-up for programme implementation. The role focuses on strengthening national and sub-national policy alignment and coherence for environmental management and governance. This contribution is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 17, specifically target 17.14.1, by enhancing policy coherence for sustainable development. The incumbent will assist the Head of Office in implementing projects, developing strategic documents, and preparing communication materials, ensuring effective collaboration with partners and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Head of the UNEP Country Office, India, the UN Volunteer will assist in implementing ongoing policy alignment and coherence projects. Responsibilities include supporting the Head and Deputy Head in developing strategic documents, reports, and policy papers through research and analysis. The role involves following up on strategic communications with partners and contributing to research on strategic issues for UNEP in India, particularly those supporting environmental governance and management policy alignment. The volunteer will prepare communication materials, including social media content, and assist with meeting schedules, outcomes, and follow-up plans. Serving as a focal point for daily communications related to project implementation is also key. Any other duties assigned by the supervisor are within the scope of the role.

Work Experience

No prior experience is required, though one month of experience is listed. Demonstrated interest and/or experience (up to two years) in science and technology or policy support is beneficial. Previous volunteer experience or experience in a different cultural context is highly regarded. Skills in communication and graphic design are desirable.

Skills

Core competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Client Orientation, Commitment and Motivation, Continuous Learning, Communication, Creativity, Empowering Others, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Judgement and Decision-making, Knowledge Sharing, Leadership, Managing Performance, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, Technological Awareness, Vision, and Working in Teams. Expertise areas include Development Programmes, Natural and Life Sciences, and Economics and Finance.

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