Programme Management Officer

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global authority on the environment. It sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the UN system, and serves as a trusted advocate for the global environment.

At the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, world leaders adopted a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development. One of the key agreements signed at the Summit was the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which has three main objectives:

• The conservation of biological diversity;
• The sustainable use of its components; and
• The fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources.

The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) is based in Montreal, Canada, and is administered by UNEP.

This position is located within the Secretariat, specifically in the Scientific, Society and Sustainable Futures (SSSF) Division. Under the general guidance of the Director of the SSSF Division and the direct supervision of the Head of the Peoples and Biodiversity Unit, the incumbent will perform the following functions:

Key Responsibilities

A. Project and Programme Implementation

Ensure effective delivery of projects and activities related to traditional knowledge, human rights, biodiversity, and area-based conservation.

B. Conference and Meeting Coordination

Coordinate the preparation and servicing of the Conference of the Parties (COP), the Subsidiary Body on Article 8(j) (SB8J), and other intersessional meetings. Facilitate meaningful engagement of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Strengthen collaboration with UN entities and international organizations.

C. Technical Guidance and Knowledge Products

Provide technical advice and develop materials on traditional knowledge, customary sustainable use, and Article 8(j). Ensure integration across Secretariat programmes. Maintain and disseminate key resources, including publications, training materials, and technical reports.

D. Partnerships and Inter-agency Collaboration

Build and maintain strong partnerships with UN agencies, Indigenous networks, and international organizations such as UNESCO and IUCN to support joint initiatives and policy coherence.

E. Resource Mobilization and Fund Management

Manage the Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities, ensuring effective fund allocation, accountability, and alignment with programme goals.

F. Programme Monitoring and Reporting

Monitor programme performance and provide regular updates to the Head of Unit, Division Director, and Executive Secretary. Ensure alignment with the Convention’s strategic priorities.

G. Impact Evaluation

Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation tools to assess the effectiveness of activities related to traditional knowledge and Indigenous engagement. Provide recommendations for improvement.

H. Stakeholder Engagement

Strengthen collaboration with Indigenous leaders, local communities, civil society organizations, and private sector partners to promote inclusive decision-making and knowledge-sharing.

I. Policy Development

Support the formulation of policies and strategic guidance on integrating traditional knowledge and Indigenous rights into biodiversity conservation at national, regional, and global levels.

J. Communication and Advocacy

Design and implement targeted communication strategies—including social media, reports, and advocacy materials—to raise awareness about the role of Indigenous Peoples and traditional knowledge in biodiversity conservation.

K. Threat Analysis

Identify and respond to emerging threats to biodiversity—such as climate change, deforestation, and land rights conflicts—that may affect Indigenous Peoples and ecosystems.

L. Data Collection and Analysis

Collect and analyze data to identify trends and provide insights using visual tools such as graphs, charts, and tables. Support data-driven planning, decision-making, and reporting.

Education:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental studies, education, law, sociology, anthropology, international affairs, or a related field.
• A first-level university degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Training in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration, policy development, or related natural resources fields.
• At least 5 years of experience in biodiversity work involving Indigenous Peoples or local communities is desirable.
• Experience in the field of human rights is desirable.
• Experience working at the international level or within the UN system is desirable.
• At least 2 years of experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable.

Languages:

• Fluency in English is required.
• Knowledge of French or Spanish is desirable.
• Knowledge of another UN official language is an asset.

Deadline - 18/06