The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a Specialist in Sustainable Blue Economy for Vanuatu. The consultant will work closely with the global SIDS Flagship team, national government, and national stakeholders, including relevant ministries, research institutions, bilateral development partners, the private sector, NGOs, and local communities. The primary objective is to utilize the UNEP Sustainable Blue Economy Transition Framework and related Rapid Readiness Assessment tool to support Vanuatu's transition towards a sustainable blue economy.
Responsibilities
- Analyze relevant legislative and policy frameworks related to a sustainable blue economy in Vanuatu.
- Assess institutional capacities, infrastructures, and cross-sectoral coordination systems.
- Compile and assess existing data on marine and coastal ecosystem services, resource management, and social and economic features.
- Identify key economic sectors, challenges, and opportunities to advance a sustainable blue economy in Vanuatu.
- Propose strategic recommendations to strengthen SBE governance, including the application of area-based management frameworks and tools (e.g., ICZM, IWRM, Land-Sea Planning, marine spatial planning).
- Organize inclusive multi-stakeholder consultations, in collaboration with the National Team, to ensure ownership of the process.
- Compile and review existing national frameworks, policies, strategies, and financing plans relevant to their ability to support a sustainable blue economy transition.
- In close consultation with the Government of Vanuatu and relevant stakeholders, prepare an integrated SBE strategic action plan and associated theory of change to support the sustainable blue economy transition for feedback and consultations with relevant national and local stakeholders.
Requirements
- Education: Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in marine sciences, environmental economics, natural resource management, coastal development, or a related field. A first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
- Experience: At least 7 years of experience in designing sustainable blue economy strategy and policy, marine resource management, integrated coastal zone management (ICZM), or marine spatial planning (MSP) protocols and guidelines.
- Regional Expertise: Experience working in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), preferably in the Pacific region, is required.
- Communication: Excellent writing, communication, and presentation skills, preferably with proven experience in subjects related to Sustainable Blue Economy.
- Consultancy Experience: Proven experience conducting similar assignments at regional or global levels is desirable.
- Facilitation: Experience conducting assessments and facilitating multi-stakeholder participatory workshops is desirable.
- Policy Knowledge: Knowledge of international policy frameworks and SDGs, particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water), is desirable.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the United Nations careers portal. Visit careers.un.org to complete the application process.
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