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. One of the key agreements adopted at Rio was the Convention on Biological Diversity. The Convention establishes three main goals: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits from the use of genetic resources. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) is in Montreal and is administered by UNEP. This post is in the CBD Secretariat, Scientific, Society and Sustainable Futures Division (SSSF). Under the overall guidance of the Executive Secretary and the direct supervision of the Principal Programme Management Officer of the SSSF Division, the incumbent will perform the following duties:

A. Leads, manages and coordinates the programme of work of the Biodiversity Science, Policy and Governance Unit (BSPG) to ensure the successful delivery of its outcomes, in a timely and effective manner: : (a) Plans and oversees the management of activities undertaken by the Unit (in areas of ecosystem based thematic work programs, agrobiodiversity, global strategy on plant conservation, ecosystem restoration and the interlinkages with climate change and the combat of desertification and the broad forest agenda); ensuring that substantive work programmes and programmed activities are carried out in a timely manner, in collaboration with other relevant organizations and partners, as appropriate (b) Supervises the preparation of various written outputs, e.g. substantive reports, studies, statements, publications etc. (c) Establishes linkages and promotes collaboration with other work programme areas under the Convention to ensure synergies and to further integrate Conservation and Sustainable Use (d) Promotes synergy and coherence with the other units and Divisions including inter alia on issues related to .Conservation, sustainable and customary use, Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS), Traditional knowledge and Article 8(j) and mainstreaming biodiversity into development plans and regional processes (e) Provides leadership, manages staff performance and facilitates the deployment of human, technical and financial resources necessary to implement the programme of work, building close working relationships with Parties and liaising with relevant agencies with a view to follow up cooperative/collaborative arrangements; . (f) Oversees the recruitment of Unit staff as well as short-term staff and consultants; (g) Manages, guides, mentors and train staff under supervision; (h) Fosters teamwork and communication among staff within the unit and across divisions. (i) Promotes interface with donors to raise funding for carryout activities under conservation and sustainable use. B. Plans, organizes and services meetings of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) as well as to ensure the effective contribution of the Conservation and Sustainable Use Unit to the Subsidiary Body on Implementation, Conference of the Parties (COP) and intersessional meetings on issues related to Conservation and Sustainable Use: (a) Develops evidence-based documents from scientific and technical data and information to facilitate decision making by the COP and its subsidiary bodies (e.g. SBSTTA, SBI): (b) Prepares draft decisions and recommendations in an integrated manner to support Parties in reaching a coherent set of outcomes on conservation and sustainable use aspects including Aichi Biodiversity Targets; (c) Provides substantive input to the bureau and chairs of the COP and its subsidiary body meetings, regarding conservation and sustainable use; (d) Designs, plans, organizes and services expert workshops/meetings, regional workshops side events/meetings that provide inputs to the subsidiary bodies (e.g. SBSTTA, SBI) and the COP, regarding conservation and sustainable use; (e) Coordinates the identification of new and emerging issues of particular significance for the work of the Convention on conservation and sustainable use. C. Manages and facilitates implementation of Conservation related actions in the National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) and other actions identified by Member states for achieving Aichi targets 11 and 12 and related Aichi targets through improvement and innovation in pursuit of Programme delivery: (a) Organizes activities for heightened political support for showcasing commitment on conservation and species protection for global biodiversity targets 3, 4 & 5 by mobilizing support from all stakeholders and by making a strong case by showcasing tangible and multiple benefits of implementation of conservation and related activities. (b) Organizes regional workshops for promoting awareness about multiple benefits, available tools, funding opportunities (bilateral and multilateral) and facilitates enabling implementation support networks; (c) Organizes activities for collecting information on the status of implementation of actions identified by Member States on global biodiversity targets 3, 4 &5, as a country driven process for informing the Parties for taking stock on conservation and species protection to take effective policy interventions to facilitate implementation and achieving global biodiversity targets; (d) Strengthens functional relationships with IUCN-WCPA, international non-governmental organizations (The Nature Conservancy, Conservation International, WWF, Bird Life International, Wildlife Conservation Society, etc.), other Conventions (World Heritage UNESCO-MAB, and Ramasar), funding agencies (bilateral, multilateral and private foundations), academic and technical institutions (University departments, UNEP-WCMC), seeking technical inputs and cooperation for facilitating implementation of conservation and related activities by Member States (e) Facilitates enabling implementation support networks at sub-regional, regional and global level for focused and sustained support to Member States. D. Liaises, collaborates and maintains positive working relations with Parties and Governments as well as maintains and builds strategic partnerships with relevant organizations with emphasis on capacity building, technical cooperation, and information sharing activities in support of Parties in their implementation of the Conservation and Sustainable Use of biological diversity programme through exploring and developing professional synergies for transformational change for achieving global biodiversity targets: (a) Develops, facilitates and strengthens cooperation/ functional relationships with UN bodies, in particular UNEP, governmental organizations, indigenous and local communities, and the private sector including through the development of joint work programmes, MOUs and ensuring their follow-up; (b) Organizes capacity building cum training and awareness raising activities on conservation and related issues in collaboration with the Capacity Development Unit; (c) Develops in collaboration with partners and makes available through the clearing-house mechanism and other means a range; of implementation tools for conservation and related areas aimed at different audiences including e-learning modules; (d) Designs communication activities on the role and the importance of the benefits of conservation in overall sustainable development and poverty alleviation, climate change and multiple benefits; (e) Creates awareness among member States on the value and utility of effective implementation of conservation and sustainable use and other related activities. (f) Leads team members efforts to collect and analyze data and provides insight to identify trends or patterns for data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting. Ensures that everyone can discover, access, integrate and share the data they need. E. Performs any other duties as assigned by the Executive Secretary and the Principal Programme Management Officer of the SSSF Division.

PROFESSIONALISM: Strong Scientific, analytical, organizational, writing and computing skills. Good knowledge of international processes in conservation and sustainable use. Ability to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management. Ability to communicate clearly links between the Organization's strategy and the work unit's goals. 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. COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. ACCOUNTABILITY: Takes ownership of responsibilities and honours commitments. Delivers outputs within prescribed time, cost and quality. Operates in compliance with rules. Supports subordinates, provides s\oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments. Takes responsibility for shortcomings. VISION: Identifies strategic issues, opportunities and risks. Clearly communicates inks between the Organization’s strategy and the work unit’s goals. Generates and communicates broad and compelling organizational direction, inspiring others to pursue that same direction. Conveys enthusiasm about future possibilities. LEADERSHIP: Serves as a role model that other people want to follow: Empowers others to translate vision into results. Is proactive in developing strategies to accomplish objectives. Establishes and maintains relationships with a broad range of people to understand needs and gain support. Anticipates and resolves conflicts by pursuing mutually agreeable solutions. Drives for change and improvements; does not accept the status quo; Shows the courage to take unpopular stands. Provides leadership and takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Demonstrates knowledge of strategies and commitment to the goal of gender balance in staffing.

Advanced university degrees in biological or environmental sciences, environmental management, with a specialization in ex-situ and in-sit conservation issues is required. A first level university degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable.

Not available.

A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible working experience in issues relevant to conservation, protected areas, ecosystem restoration, sustainable use on biodiversity and ex-situ and in-situ conservation or related fields is required. Experience at national level, with at least five years’ experience at the international level in a decision-making position dealing with wider environmental issues or dealing with multi-country projects in relevant fields is desirable. Experience with the Convention process and the functioning of the Convention’s bodies is desirable. Experience in data analytics or related area is desirable.

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is 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).

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Required Languages

Language

Reading

Writing

Listening

Speaking

English

UN Level II

UN Level II

UN Level II

UN Level II

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include a substantive assessment which will be followed by a competency-based interview.

This position is temporary and available until 2 February 2027. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. • While this temporary assignment may provide the successful applicant with an opportunity to gain new work experience, the selection for this position is for a limited period and has no bearing on the future incumbency of the post. • Subject to the funding source of the position, the eligibility for this temporary job opening may be limited to candidates based at the duty station. • This temporary job opening may be limited to “internal candidates,” who have been recruited through a competitive examination administered according to staff rule 4.16 or staff selection process including the review of a central review body established according to staff rule 4.15. • Staff members of the United Nations common system organizations who will reach the mandatory age of separation or retirement within the duration of the current temporary need period are not eligible to apply. Submitting an application or selection for the current temporary job opening does not delay or increase the mandatory age of separation. • Retirees above the mandatory age of separation who wish to be considered for the current temporary job opening must indicate the reason for their last separation as "retirement." Such retirees shall not be employed by the Organization, unless (a) the operational requirements of the Organization cannot be met by staff members who are qualified and available to perform the required functions; and (b) the proposed employment would not adversely affect the career development or redeployment opportunities of other staff members and represents both a cost-effective and operationally sound solution to meet the needs of the service. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers in accordance with established rules and procedures. • When completing the Candidate Profile form, ensure ALL fields, ALL professional experience and contact information are completed and up to date. This information is the basis for the hiring manager to assess your eligibility and suitability for the position and to contact you. • The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for this position. • At the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the recruitment and employment of staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity, with due regard to geographic diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications and organizational needs. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. The United Nations recruits and employs staff regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds or disabilities. Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities may be provided to support participation in the recruitment process when requested and indicated in the application. • All applicants are strongly encouraged to apply online as soon as possible after the job opening has been posted and well before the deadline stated in the job opening. Online applications will be acknowledged where an email address has been provided. If you do not receive an e-mail acknowledgement within 24 hours of submission, your application may not have been received. If the problem persists, please seek technical assistance through the Inspira "Contact Us" link.

According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Candidates will not be considered for employment with the United Nations if they have committed violations of international human rights law, violations of international humanitarian law, sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, or if there are reasonable grounds to believe that they have been involved in the commission of any of these acts. The term “sexual exploitation” means any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another. The term “sexual abuse” means the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions. The term “sexual harassment” means any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that might reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause offence or humiliation, when such conduct interferes with work, is made a condition of employment or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment, and when the gravity of the conduct warrants the termination of the perpetrator’s working relationship. Candidates who have committed crimes other than minor traffic offences may not be considered for employment. Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible. The United Nations places no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request, to support their participation in the recruitment process. By accepting a letter of appointment, staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, who may assign them to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations in accordance with staff regulation 1.2 (c). Further, staff members in the Professional and higher category up to and including the D-2 level and the Field Service category are normally required to move periodically to discharge functions in different duty stations under conditions established in ST/AI/2023/3 on Mobility, as may be amended or revised. This condition of service applies to all position specific job openings and does not apply to temporary positions. Applicants are urged to carefully follow all instructions available in the online recruitment platform, inspira, and to refer to the Applicant Guide by clicking on “Manuals” in the “Help” tile of the inspira account-holder homepage. The evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations including the Charter of the United Nations, resolutions of the General Assembly, the Staff Regulations and Rules, administrative issuances and guidelines. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications according to the instructions provided in inspira to be considered for the current job opening. No amendment, addition, deletion, revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in the application. All external candidates recruited in accordance with section ‎2.2 (a) of ST/AI/2025/3 for a fixed term appointment without limitation and all external candidates recruited in accordance with section 2.2. (c) of ST/AI/2025/3 for a fixed term appointment limited to the entity are subject to an initial probationary period of one year under a fixed-term appointment. Job openings advertised on the Careers Portal will be removed at 11:59 p.m. (New York time) on the deadline date.

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.