Senior Programme Manager Role for UNOPS Climate Action Team

As the world grapples with climate change, the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has announced an opening for a Senior Programme Manager (Mitigation) to join its Climate Action Team (CAT) Project. This role, based in New York, USA, at the IICA-3 level (ICS-11), offers a one-year contract with potential for renewal, contingent on performance and funding.

Understanding UNOPS

UNOPS serves as a key operational entity within the United Nations, aiding partners in fostering sustainability through effective project management, procurement, and infrastructure services. With operations in over 80 countries and a workforce of 160 nationalities, UNOPS plays a vital role in helping entities achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The New York Portfolio Office (NYPO) enhances the initiatives of the UN Secretariat and other entities based in New York, focusing on peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. Within this framework, the Sustainable Development Cluster (SDC) manages projects that integrate sustainability with global programs, extending its reach to 125 countries.

The Climate Action Team (CAT) Project

Partnering with the Executive Office of the Secretary-General, UNOPS is propelling the CAT Project to address the urgent need for significant emissions reductions. Current trends suggest global warming could reach nearly 3°C, a figure well above the critical 1.5°C threshold necessary to protect ecosystems and human security.

This initiative echoes the Secretary-General’s appeal for nations, institutions, and businesses to urgently tackle climate change. Despite the looming threat to the 2030 Agenda, climate action presents opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and biodiversity conservation through green investments.

Strategic Focus and Goals

The climate action strategy aims to expedite the transition to a resilient, low-carbon world, in line with the Paris Agreement, by:

• Maintaining the 1.5°C target.
• Aligning financial systems with climate resilience goals.
• Ensuring global accountability in climate commitments.
• Supporting developing countries with finance and technology access.

As COP30 approaches, governments are expected to present new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) that are comprehensive and aligned with the 1.5°C target, focusing on reducing fossil fuel dependency.

Key Priorities

The Secretary-General’s Climate Action Team will focus on several key areas:

1. 1.5°C-Aligned NDC Development – Assisting governments in crafting comprehensive national climate strategies.
2. Energy Transition Partnerships – Promoting models like JETPs for renewable energy adoption.
3. Industrial Decarbonization – Encouraging collaboration on essential minerals and technologies.
4. Integration with the SDGs – Aligning climate strategies with broader development goals.
5. Accountability of Non-State Actors – Enhancing transparency in corporate net-zero pledges.
6. Adaptation and Resilience – Advancing the Global Goal on Adaptation and Early Warnings for All initiatives.
7. Climate Finance Delivery – Facilitating access to finance for developing countries and implementing COP29 outcomes.
8. Loss and Damage Fund – Ensuring effective deployment of resources established at COP28.

The Role

The Senior Programme Manager, reporting to the Director of Climate Ambition, will lead key mitigation initiatives within the CAT framework. This position requires strategic leadership and expertise in international climate policy and multilateral collaboration.

Why Join UNOPS

UNOPS provides a vibrant and inclusive work environment, offering opportunities to engage in significant global initiatives. Emphasizing flexibility and professional growth, UNOPS encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. Please contact the hiring organization directly for inquiries and application submissions. Due to the volume of emails, GSO may not respond to all inquiries.