Chief, Economics and Trade Branch, D-1
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 21 July 2009
DATE OF ISSUANCE: 22 May 2009
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT: United Nations Environment Programme
DUTY STATION: Geneva
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT NUMBER: 09-PGH-UNEP-4212BO-R-Geneva
The Executive Director reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level lower than the advertised level of the post. 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.
Remuneration
Depending on professional background, experience and family situation, a competitive compensation and benefits package is offered. More Info…
United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity
Responsibilities
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the United Nations system’s designated entity for addressing environmental issues at the global and regional level. Its mandate is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP’s Division of Technology, Industry and Economics (DTIE) works with international governmental and non-governmental organizations, national and local governments, business and industry to develop and implement policies, strategies and practices that are cleaner and safer, incorporate environmental costs, use natural resources efficiently, reduce pollution and risks for humans and the environment, and enable the implementation of conventions and international agreements. The work of UNEP’s Economics and Trade Branch (ETS) examines how economics, trade and finance interact with the environment and contribute to sustainable development at the local, national, regional and global levels, It makes the economic case for the environment, in particular through the “Green Economy Initiative,” This post is located in the Economics and Trade Branch (ETB) of UNEP/DTIE in Geneva, The position reports to the Director DTIE and as Branch Chief, is responsible for the formulation and management of UNEP’s Programme on Economics and Trade with the following main functions:
- Ensures the integration and use of economic rationale, analyses and tools across the various UNEP priority areas and Divisions and maintains a network of institutions and experts to provide inputs/advice to UNEP’s work on economics and trade.
- Evaluates and analyses the developmental and environmental implications of policies, plans and programmes proposed by governments, advise on policies that facilitate sound environmental management and sustainable development.
- Provides technical advice and assistance to UNEP clients, including governments, NGOs on developing and implementing conceptual frameworks to achieve sound environmental management and sustainable development.
- Integrates and ensures coherence and consistency between the economics related activities developed by the Branch with other relevant activities developed and implemented across the United Nations Environment Programme and provides expert advice to UNEP Management on the interface between environment, economics and development.
- Develops programmatic strategies and policies and determines the related financial and human resource requirements.
- Manages the personnel and financial resources of the Branch.
Competencies
Professionalism: Knowledge of environmental economics with specific focus on the sustainable development dimensions of macroeconomic and sectoral policies and the impacts of such policies on ecosystems and the services they provide. Ability to prepare reports and papers on related technical issues and to review, analyze, and comment on research papers; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; performs efficiently under stressful situations. Communication: communicates both verbally and in writing clearly and effectively; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping others not only informed but involved in the design and implementation of programmes and activities. Negotiates to align parties, builds networks, listens and communicates effectively to engage others Teamwork: Builds support for mandate toward achieving a vision; inspires others to translate vision and values into day-to-day activities and behaviors. Works collaboratively with colleagues across the organization to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; Strong network inside and outside the UN and ability to create teams across the organization, Planning and Organizing: Formulates, implements and evaluates; Establishes courses of action that ensure that work is completed efficiently; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary. Accountability: Is conscientious and efficient in meeting deadlines and commitments, and achieving results; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable. Leadership: inspires staff members to perform their duties willingly, competently and enthusiastically; imaginatively directs, guides and influences goals by mediating between individuals and the organization in such a manner that both gain maximum satisfaction; leads by example and talent; performs a directing role and yields influence over others; empowers others to translate vision into results; 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.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Advanced university degree in economics, environmental economics and environmental accounting, A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Work Experience
At least 15 years of working experience, some of which should be at the international level, strong track record in environmental economics, human resources management, administration, logistics, financial management, budget or related field. Developing country experience is essential and experience in working in or with the United Nations an asset.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the advertised post, fluency in oral and written English or French is required. Working knowledge of the other is desirable. Knowledge of other United Nations languages an asset.
Other Skills
Knowledge of the structures of the UN and other bodies and of the different structures of international coordination mechanisms. Solid knowledge of UNEP’s global environmental strategy, the Bali strategic plan and issues related to mainstreaming the environment in development policies, poverty reduction strategies, environmental economics and trade and environment. Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office, e-mail, internet) are required,
The United Nations shall place 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. (Charter of the United Nations -Chapter 3, article 8). English and French are the two working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.
PLEASE NOTE THAT APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE DEADLINE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. For more information click here.