The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), administered by UNEP, is seeking a consultant to lead its work programme on mainstreaming biodiversity. The role involves supporting implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), facilitating knowledge exchange, analyzing national reporting, and preparing key documentation ahead of COP17 and related meetings. The consultant will also help organize parallel events and contribute to stakeholder engagement and outreach.

Job Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze good practices and tools from Parties and stakeholders, and prepare a structured overview for biodiversity mainstreaming.

• Develop a platform on the CBD clearing-house mechanism to facilitate exchange of best practices related to GBF implementation.

• Organize virtual dialogues to promote sector-specific communities of practice, engaging diverse actors (e.g., subnational governments, Indigenous Peoples and local communities, private sector).

• Analyze national reports to identify trends and gaps in biodiversity mainstreaming and contribute to the Global Review.

• Draft a progress report for the Subsidiary Body on Implementation ahead of COP17.

• Support the organization of events at COP17, including the Business and Biodiversity Forum, Finance and Biodiversity Day, and Action Zone.

• Assist with servicing relevant agenda items at COP17 and subsidiary meetings.

• Contribute to internal communications and broader outreach on mainstreaming.

• Perform other related tasks as requested by CBD leadership.

Job Requirements

• Education: Advanced university degree in international relations or related field is required. Interdisciplinary exposure (environmental, social, or economic disciplines) is desirable. A first-level degree with two additional years of experience may be accepted in lieu.

• Experience: Minimum two years of professional experience in environmental policy and natural resource or ecosystem management. Experience with international organizations or the UN is desirable, as is knowledge of biodiversity mainstreaming and its economic or business linkages.

• Skills: Strong skills in planning, organizing, and drafting policy documents and meeting materials for international audiences.

• Languages: Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of other UN languages is an asset.

• Competencies: Communication, teamwork, planning and organizing.