Associate Programme Management Officer, P2

Org. Setting and Reporting

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. At the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, world leaders agreed on a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development. A key agreement opened for signature at Rio was the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Convention has three objectives: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) is located in Montreal, Canada and is administered by UNEP. This post is in the Secretariat of the CBD, within the Scientific, Society and Sustainable Futures Division (SSSF). Under the overall supervision of the Head of the Peoples and Biodiversity Unit and the direct supervision of the Programme Management Officer responsible, the incumbent will carry out the following functions:

Responsibilities

A. Contributes to provide substantive support to the implementation and management of the Programme of Work on Article 8(j); (i) Supports the preparation and servicing of meetings of the Conference of Parties and intersessional meetings, with a focus on traditional knowledge (Article 8 (j) issues and related provisions as well as programme of activities for indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs). (ii) Manage partnership initiatives, parallel events and side events; (iii) Prepare and service meetings of the Subsidiary Body on Article 8(j) and Other Provisions of the Convention on Biological Diversity Related to Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (SB8J). (iv) Produce, maintain and disseminate information related to the programme of work through publications such as the CBD Technical Series. (v) Provide technical advice to Parties and staff of the Secretariat on mainstreaming of Articles 8(j),and10(c). (vi) Supports the management of and fundraising for the Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. B. Contributes to develop outreach and partnerships in support of the Programme of Work on Article 8(j); (i) Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with IPLCs and NGOs, and other relevant international agencies, to support the work on Article 8 (j) and related provisions, in particular with the Inter-Agency Support Group on Indigenous Peoples Issues (IASG), the United Nations Permanent Forum on (Indigenous Issues as well as contributing to the System-Wide Action Plan (SWAP) for ensuring a coherent approach to achieving the ends of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. (ii) Develop and disseminate guidelines, publications, newsletters and training materials to support IPLCs. (iii) Develop and improve the web pages on Article 8 (j). C. Assists Parties, indigenous peoples, local communities and stakeholders in the effective implementation of the Convention, especially articles related to traditional knowledge. (i) Provide advice relevant to the implementation of the Convention as it relates to indigenous peoples and local communities. (ii) Contribute to awareness-raising activities on the Convention, among indigenous peoples and local communities. D. Contributes to the capacity building activities; (i) Document capacity-building activities and approaches on traditional knowledge, including good practices and lessons learned. (ii) Develop a partnership with academic and educational sector with regard to the Convention on Biological Diversity-related issues. E. Contributes to the collection and analysis of data as well as identification of trends or patterns and provides draft insights through graphs, charts, tables, and reports using data visualization methods for data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation, and reporting. F. Undertakes other activities as assigned by the Programme Officer on Traditional Knowledge, the Head of the Unit or the Executive Secretary.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to biodiversity, environmental management, international environmental policy and law and issues related to indigenous peoples and local communities under the Convention on Biological Diversity. Provides substantive support for the effective Implementation of the programme of work on Articles 8(j) and other provisions of the Convention on Biological Diversity related to indigenous peoples and local communities. Supports the preparation and servicing of meetings and related processes under the Convention. Outreaches partner line with the relevant decision of the Conference of the Parties for capacity-building activities. The ability to perform analysis, modeling and interpretation of data in support of decision-making. Shows pride in work and in achievements; Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter. Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results. Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns. Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges. Remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. PLANNING AND ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses efficiently. TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; Places team agenda before personal agenda; Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Education

An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in indigenous affairs, public policy, environmental law, education and/or a biodiversity-related area is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable.

Job - Specific Qualification

Not available.

Work Experience

A minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project management, policy development, environmental governance, engagement of indigenous peoples and local communities or related fields is required. Experience in supporting the implementation of international programmes, projects or initiatives related to biodiversity, sustainable development, traditional knowledge or related areas is required. Experience in conducting research, analysis and preparation of technical, policy or briefing documents for intergovernmental, governmental or international processes is required. Experience in supporting the organization and servicing of international meetings, workshops, consultations or conferences involving multiple stakeholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, is required. Experience in collecting, analyzing and synthesizing information from diverse sources to support decision-making processes is required. One year or more experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable. Experience within the United Nations system or another international organization is desirable. Experience working with indigenous peoples and local communities, traditional knowledge systems or community-based approaches is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English and French are required. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult https://languages.un.org for details).

Required Languages LanguageReadingWritingListeningSpeakingEnglishUN Level IIUN Level IIUN Level IIUN Level IIFrenchUN Level IIUN Level IIUN Level IIUN Level II Assessment Evaluation of qualified candidates may include a substantive assessment which will be followed by a competency-based interview. Special Notice The appointment against this post is for an initial period of one (1) year and may be subject to extension. An external candidate selected for this position will be granted a fixed-term appointment limited ("FTA-limited") in accordance with section 2.2 (b) of the administrative instruction ST/AI/2013/1 on Administration of fixed-term appointments. Renewal of appointment is contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and the availability of funding. If this position is discontinued, the incumbent will be separated from service. 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