Join the Lusophone Transparency Network as a Part-Time Coordinator (Home-Based) – 65% Role in New York!
Join the Lusophone Transparency Network as a Part-Time Coordinator in a dynamic home-based role! Contribute to important initiatives while working 65% of the time from the comfort of your own space in New York, United States. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact in promoting transparency within the Lusophone community. Be part of a dedicated team and help drive positive change! Apply now to be at the forefront of this vital mission!
Part-Time Coordinator Job Information
Job Identification: 23922
Posting Date: February 4, 2025, at 1:30 AM
Application Deadline: February 11, 2025, at 6:59 AM
Job Schedule: Full-Time
Location: New York, United States
Agency: UNDP
Grade: IPSA-11
Vacancy Type: International Personnel Service Agreement
Practice Area: Nature, Climate, and Energy
Bureau: Bureau for Policy and Programme Support
Contract Duration: 1 Year
Education & Work Experience required for the Part-Time Coordinator:
To qualify, candidates must hold a Master’s Degree with at least 7 years of experience or a Bachelor’s Degree with 9 years of experience.
Required Languages:
Candidates must be fluent in English and proficient in Portuguese.
Vacancy Timeline:
You have 1 week to apply.
Mobility Requirement:
No mobility is required for this position.
Overview of UNDP’s Role
UNDP stands as a leader in sustainable development within the UN system. It acts as a catalyst for collective action, aiming to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization conducts vital policy work at headquarters, regional, and country office levels. This work combines deep local knowledge with innovative global perspectives and advocacy. Additionally, UNDP invests in the Global Policy Network (GPN), which connects field-based and global technical expertise across various domains. This network plays a key role in supporting the solutions outlined in the Strategic Plan.
Functions of the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support
Within the GPN, the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) is essential. BPPS develops critical policies and guidance to advance UNDP’s Strategic Plan. Its staff provides valuable technical advice to Country Offices while also advocating for UNDP’s corporate messages. Furthermore, they represent the organization at multi-stakeholder forums and engage in public-private dialogues to foster collaboration.
Moreover, BPPS works closely with UNDP’s Crisis Bureau to enhance emergency response efforts. It ensures that risk considerations are fully integrated into UNDP’s development programs. By linking results-based management with innovative approaches, BPPS helps achieve better outcomes. The bureau also emphasizes a data-driven and knowledge-based approach in its program support.
Focus Areas of BPPS’s Hubs
BPPS’s Hubs concentrate on Nature, Climate, Energy, and Waste. Importantly, these hubs benefit from support provided by the Vertical Fund Programme Support, Oversight, and Compliance Unit. Moreover, they collaborate with governments, civil society, and private sector partners. Their goal is to embed environmental concerns into national planning while fostering inclusive growth policies. In addition, they assist countries in fulfilling obligations under Multilateral Environmental Agreements and oversee UNDP’s extensive in-country programs related to nature, climate change, energy, and waste.
The newly established UNDP Climate Hub is pivotal in advancing the organization’s commitment to the “Climate Promise.” Specifically, this initiative supports countries in designing and implementing pledges under the Paris Agreement. It focuses on ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions. The Climate Hub ensures that climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies are integrated into national development planning and budget processes. Furthermore, it builds on UNDP’s climate portfolio, which exceeds USD 4 billion across 142 countries. This portfolio includes various programs, such as Climate Change Policies and Strategies, Climate Change Adaptation, and Climate Change Mitigation. Additionally, it addresses Climate and Forests, along with UNDP’s Nature portfolio, Sustainable Finance Hub, and Digital offerings related to youth, gender, health, and climate security.
Responsibilities of the UNDP Climate Hub
The UNDP Climate Hub is vital in several key areas:
- It leads thought leadership on climate issues and safeguards UNDP’s policy positions on climate.
- The Hub formulates effective strategies and visions for its initiatives.
- It collaborates with other hubs and the Vertical Fund Programme Support, Oversight, and Compliance Unit to develop project pipelines.
- Additionally, the Hub provides integrated policy and program support to Country Offices.
- It prioritizes global engagement and advocacy, often partnering with BERA.
- The Hub ensures seamless integration across various thematic areas.
- Moreover, it focuses on building strategic partnerships and mobilizing resources.
- The Hub spearheads global flagship initiatives and partnerships centered on climate.
- It acts as a focal point for UN coordination mechanisms and conventions, such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
- The Hub promotes knowledge sharing and learning across the organization.
- Finally, it drives innovation in climate-related efforts.
Initiative for Climate Transparency Enhancement
As part of this initiative, the Government of Belgium has approved a contribution of 1.2 million euros. This funding aims to enhance transparency capacity in Lusophone and Francophone countries, facilitating south-south exchanges. The project, titled “Enhancing Climate Transparency in Developing Countries – A Contribution to the Climate Promise,” seeks to provide targeted countries with effective governance. It aims to create an enabling environment to accelerate and scale Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) implementation. Support will focus on data and transparency, delivered at both country and regional levels.
In addition, the global CBIT Phase 2 project, led by UNEP and funded by the GEF, will offer targeted technical support and training. This initiative will help developing country parties meet their reporting obligations under the Convention and the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). It will also support south-south sub-regional networks, including the Lusophone network.
To further these efforts, UNDP is seeking a Lusophone Transparency Network Coordinator. This role focuses on climate data transparency in relation to Article 13 of the Paris Agreement. The ideal candidate will have substantial field experience in Lusophone countries. They will lead activities designed to strengthen technical capacities, as outlined in both the Belgium-funded project and the CBIT Phase 2 project.
Scope of Work for the Part-Time Coordinator:
The Network Coordinator will possess direct work experience in one or more Lusophone network participating countries, focusing on climate policy, climate negotiations, climate transparency, and/or climate finance. Additionally, fluency in Portuguese is essential. The coordinator will operate under the direct supervision of the Belgium-funded project manager at the UNDP Climate Hub, as well as the CBIT Phase 2 project coordinator at UNEP-CCC. Importantly, only activities related to CBIT will be reported to the CBIT-GSP project coordinator.
Role and Responsibilities of the Lusophone Network Coordinator
Needs Assessment and Prioritization
First, the Coordinator will identify the needs and priorities for the Lusophone network concerning the transparency workstream. This process will involve thorough consultations with the participating countries to ensure their specific requirements are understood and addressed.
Development of the Annual Work Plan for the Part-Time Coordinator:
Next, the Coordinator will develop and support the implementation of an annual network work plan. This plan will focus on addressing the gaps and priority areas identified during consultations. The development will be guided by the project coordinators and conducted in collaboration with UNEP, PATPA, and the Government of Belgium.
Fostering Collaboration
Moreover, the Part-Time Coordinator: Coordinator will take the initiative to lead constructive collaboration among member countries. This collaborative effort will be achieved by organizing and moderating national-level workshops annually. These workshops will serve as vital platforms for sharing knowledge, best practices, and fostering relationships among participants.
In addition to the workshops, the the Part-Time Coordinator will facilitate the annual dialogue and technical workshops through various communication channels. This includes engaging in discussions via emails, video conferences, and phone calls to ensure continuous interaction and support among member countries. By employing these diverse communication methods, the Coordinator will create an inclusive environment that encourages participation and strengthens collaboration across the network. Ultimately, this approach aims to enhance the collective capacity of member countries to address shared challenges effectively.
Webinars on Technical Matters
In addition, the Coordinator will take the lead in planning, organizing, and facilitating at least two annual webinars conducted in Portuguese. These webinars will focus on key technical matters related to Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV), the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF), gender integration into MRV, and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) tracking.
These sessions will serve as vital platforms for knowledge sharing and capacity building among participants. By providing expert insights and fostering discussions, the webinars will enhance participants’ understanding of complex topics and promote best practices. Furthermore, the interactive nature of these webinars will encourage engagement, allowing attendees to ask questions and share their own experiences. Ultimately, these efforts aim to empower member countries to strengthen their capabilities in implementing effective transparency measures and integrating gender considerations into their climate strategies.
Technical Support and Report Review
The Part-Time Coordinator will assist national project coordinators by providing essential technical inputs and reviewing reports, including BUR, BTR, and NC, along with relevant technical guidelines and toolkits. This support will ensure that the reports meet the necessary standards and requirements.
In-Country Training Sessions
Furthermore, the Coordinator will design and develop agendas for in-country training sessions, conducting at least one training depending on identified needs. These sessions will focus on the Enhanced Transparency Framework, and the Coordinator will support their organization while creating comprehensive training materials.
Addressing Network Needs
Additionally, the Coordinator will be responsible for handling tasks related to the network’s needs. This includes translating documentation and providing ad hoc support requests from countries and project coordinators, ensuring that all members receive the assistance they require.
Facilitation of Cluster Operations
The part-time coordinator will facilitate Lusophone cluster operations and maintain a help-desk function. They will provide monthly reports detailing the support offered, ensuring transparency and accountability in operations.
Organization of Network Activities
Also, the Coordinator will organize network activities as outlined in the CBIT annual work plans, based on thorough regional needs assessments. This strategic approach will help align activities with the priorities of the participating countries.
Maintenance of Focal Points List
The Part-Time Coordinator will establish and maintain a list of country focal points and participants in trainings/webinars, noting their areas of expertise. This resource will facilitate effective communication and collaboration among members.
Knowledge Sharing
Finally, the Coordinator will capture the knowledge generated by the network and share it with CBIT Phase II project staff. This knowledge will be made available to other regions and stakeholders through various formats, including webinars, audio briefings, web content, brochures, and other knowledge products. This effort will promote learning and continuous improvement across the network.
The incumbent will perform additional duties within their functional profile as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.
Institutional Arrangement for the Part-Time Coordinator
The Network Coordinator will report to the project manager and technical advisor on Transparency (of the ECT project implemented by UNDP) regarding activities under the Belgium-funded project. Simultaneously, they will report to the project coordinator of the CBIT Phase 2 project (implemented by UNEP-CCC & DTU) concerning activities under the CBIT-GSP project.
Competencies required Part-Time Coordinator
Core Competencies
- Achieve Results:
- Level 3: Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, creating a lasting impact.
- Think Innovatively:
- Level 3: Proactively mitigate potential risks and develop new ideas to solve complex problems.
- Learn Continuously:
- Level 3: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons and diversify experiences.
- Adapt with Agility:
- Level 3: Proactively initiate and champion change while managing multiple competing demands.
- Act with Determination:
- Level 3: Think beyond immediate tasks and barriers to achieve greater results.
- Engage and Partner:
- Level 3: Demonstrate political savvy, navigate a complex landscape, and champion inter-agency collaboration.
- Enable Diversity and Inclusion:
- Level 3: Appreciate the benefits of a diverse workforce and champion inclusivity.
Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies
Thematic Area: Business Management
Communication
The ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and unambiguously through both written and verbal means is essential. This competency involves tailoring messages and selecting appropriate communication methods based on the audience. Furthermore, it includes managing communications effectively, both internally and externally, through media, social media, and other suitable channels. In addition, it requires adapting to different contexts and ensuring that the intended message is conveyed accurately.
Customer Satisfaction/Client Management
This competency encompasses the ability to respond promptly and appropriately with a sense of urgency. It involves providing consistent solutions and delivering timely, high-quality results that fulfill and understand the real needs of customers. Furthermore, it includes contributing to the development of customer service strategies and finding ways to add value beyond clients’ immediate requests. Importantly, anticipating clients’ upcoming needs and concerns is also a key aspect of this competency.
System Thinking
This competency involves using objective problem analysis and judgment to understand how interrelated elements coexist within an overall process or system. It requires considering how changes to one element can impact other parts of the system. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing patterns and relationships among various components.
Knowledge Facilitation
This competency entails the ability to engage individuals and groups, both internally and externally, while designing and facilitating activities to share and exchange knowledge, information, and ideas. This includes knowledge of tools and approaches that stimulate active participation and contribution. Additionally, it focuses on creating an environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.
Partnerships Management
This competency focuses on building and maintaining partnerships with a broad network of stakeholders, including governments, civil society, private sector partners, and experts. Overall, it aligns with UNDP strategies and policies. Furthermore, it requires effective communication and negotiation skills to foster collaborative relationships.
Climate
This competency involves fostering food security and resilient agricultural systems through climate change adaptation. It emphasizes the importance of integrating climate considerations into agricultural practices and policies. Additionally, it seeks to promote sustainable development while addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
Nature, Climate, and Energy
This competency focuses on climate change adaptation policy and planning, particularly in the development of National Adaptation Plans. It aims to ensure that strategies are effectively implemented to mitigate the impacts of climate change on natural resources and energy systems. Moreover, it highlights the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to achieve these goals.
Minimum Qualifications of the Successful IPSA
Academic Education
To qualify, candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Environmental Economics, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, International Development, or closely related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in these areas, combined with an additional 2 years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.
Relevant Work Experience
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience with a Master’s degree or 9 years with a Bachelor’s degree. This experience must encompass climate change, climate transparency, climate negotiations, agriculture, and/or rural development project management and implementation, along with policy support.
Required Skills and Competencies
- Experience in Enhanced Transparency Frameworks:
Candidates must demonstrate at least 7 years of experience with enhanced transparency frameworks, NDCs, MRV systems, and reporting to the UNFCCC (BURs, NCs, BTRs). - Field-Based Experience:
Previous field-based work experience in one or more Lusophone countries participating in the network is essential, particularly in climate policy and reporting to the Convention or transparency frameworks. - Understanding of Climate Policy:
Candidates should possess demonstrated knowledge of the institutional, political, and social dimensions of climate change and climate policy in one or more Lusophone countries within the network. - Capacity-Building Activities:
Proven experience in organizing, conducting, and facilitating South-South cooperation and capacity-building activities related to MRV systems, GHG inventories, NDC reporting, and Article 13 requirements is required. - Global Climate Negotiations:
Candidates must have experience leading or participating in global climate negotiations processes. - Analytical Skills:
Excellent analytical skills and the ability to draft reports effectively are essential.
Desired Additional Skills and Competencies
- Knowledge of UNDP:
Familiarity with UNDP, UN agencies, or other development organizations is an asset. - Technical Advisory Experience:
Experience in supporting developing countries, particularly Lusophone network countries, in a technical advisory or project development role is beneficial. - Donor Engagement:
Experience working with donors, including bilateral and multilateral banks, is an asset. - Project Design Experience:
Candidates should have experience designing large-scale projects focused on climate change and climate transparency.
Required Language(s)
- Fluency in English is mandatory.
- Proficiency in Portuguese is also required.
Professional Certificates
Membership in the UNFCCC MRV/ETF Transparency Division’s roster within the Mitigation, Data, and Analysis Programme would be advantageous.
Travel Requirements
UNDP will cover the cost of necessary travel while performing the outlined functions, in accordance with its travel policy. At a minimum (COVID permitting), the individual is expected to conduct at least 2 country visits and attend all regional workshops outlined in the work plan.
