UNESCO is seeking a qualified consultant for the role of “Marine Biodiversity Programme Officer” to support various tasks related to the implementation of the Ocean Decade in the Western Pacific region.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Under the overall authority of the Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok (UNESCO Bangkok) and the direct supervision of the Head of the WESTPAC Office/DCO, the Marine Biodiversity Programme Officer will be responsible for the development and implementation of programmes related to marine biodiversity and ecosystems within the framework of the IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030). Specific responsibilities include:

• Lead and coordinate the development and implementation of WESTPAC marine biodiversity and ecosystem-related programmes and activities.
• Identify emerging issues and develop strategies, programmes, or activities aligned with the mission of the IOC and WESTPAC, supporting the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 14, and the Ocean Decade.
• Provide assistance to member states, institutions, and relevant networks in project development, implementation, and evaluation. This includes monitoring project progress, reviewing documents, preparing reports, liaising with stakeholders, and tracking follow-up actions.
• Foster partnerships and pursue fundraising opportunities with national governmental agencies, research institutes, universities, international organizations, and donor communities.
• Organize workshops, meetings, capacity-building, and awareness-raising activities that align with the overall mission.
• Deliver timely information on scientific advances, programmatic directions, and new opportunities to diverse audiences.
• Undertake other relevant assignments as instructed by the Head of the WESTPAC Office.
• Submit deliverables associated with the specific tasks outlined above and provide regular updates on progress by the end of each month.

The consultant is expected to integrate a gender perspective in all activities and apply gender mainstreaming concepts whenever feasible, in line with UNESCO’s overall gender mainstreaming strategy.

Qualifications and Skills Required

Education

• Advanced University Degree in ocean science, environmental science, ocean management, or programme development and management.

Work Experience

• At least 5-7 years of professional international experience, including demonstrated experience in marine biodiversity-related programme development and management.
• Experience in fundraising, partnership development, and resource mobilization.

Skills/Competencies

• Agility and flexibility to meet tight deadlines and manage changing priorities.
• Highly organized, able to work on several tasks simultaneously, prioritize, and manage time efficiently.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate and work in a multicultural team environment.

Languages

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English with strong attention to detail.

Desirable Qualifications

• A deep understanding of the United Nations system, the IOC-UNESCO, and the Ocean Decade and its significance.