International Union for Conservation of Nature Careers

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The Finance Officer, BIODEV2030 is expected to support the development of tools, reports, and appropriate procedures to facilitate efficient and effective financial and administrative management of the BIODEV2030 Phase II project and its resources. Generally, the Finance Officer will support the Grants & Contracts Manager in the project implementation and delivery, throughout the full project cycle management. He/she will also work closely with the global project team, based in Gland (Switzerland), to meet the donor requirement in terms of reporting.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Under the direct management of the Grants & Contracts Manager, ESARO, the Finance Officer, BIODEV2030 will have the following specific responsibilities:

Programmatic financial and administrative support;

• Develop and ensure the efficient implementation of systems to support the financial and administration management of the BIODEV2030 Phase II project to enable effective financial performance and minimize risks.
• Develop and maintain internal systems to support financial and administration procedures as the BIODEV2030 Phase II project transition from proposal development, implementation, and closure.
• Ensure that regular project tasks are performed to meet IUCN’s internal procedures, such as time tracking, consistent cost recovery and overheads charging, financial and contractual data archiving, etc.
• Ensure the maintenance of up-to-date financial and administrative data in appropriate systems (Award Vision, Project Portal, etc.) including budgets, consultancy agreements, implementing partner agreements, etc.
• Contribute to annual reporting, work plans and general briefings to respective Finance & Administration Managers.
• Prepare the BIODEV2030 Phase II regional project financial management reports for use at various levels of the organization covering areas such as performance measurement, compliance, and risk.

Project Management Support: Budget, procurement, contracts, donor report, monitoring of budget expenditure and audits;.

• Develop and ensure the efficient implementation of consistent financial and administration systems and services (internally, and externally with countries in the region, sub-contractors and implementing partners) to BIODEV2030 Phase II, from concept and proposal development with budget development ensuring proper cost recovery, and throughout the project cycle management with financial reporting to close-out with project audits.
• Liaise and coordinate with regional colleagues to ensure a consistent approach to project finance and administrational procedures from the set-up of the project.
• Provide support to Country Senior Programme Officers in Africa to develop reliable quarterly forecasts and to optimize cost recovery.
• Ensure that all donor contractual requirements in respect to finance, procurement, forecasting, and reporting are respected through sound monitoring and oversight, and liaison with IUCN countries of the region and HQ, on financial and administration aspects.
• In conjunction with the BIODEV2030 Phase 2 project management team, ensure that cost recovery is optimized between countries, considering the different roles and responsibilities of the project management teams; Ensure and safeguard timely and efficient donor financial reporting, project audits, etc. Track and follow up on reporting deadlines/submissions with the IA project and finance managers.
• Provide support to project audits by collecting requested documents and by responding to requests from the auditors in collaboration with Finance Managers, and countries of the region.
• Support the tracking and follow up on reporting deadlines/submissions with regional finance managers.
• Support the development and management of internal agreements (IAs), including the drafting of agreements. Work with regional colleagues to ensure a consistent and streamlined approach to the administration and management of internal agreements.
• Support the digital and physical financial and contractual data filing and maintenance through the maintenance of a BIODEV2030 Phase 2 Teams Drive, projects files, project reports filing, etc.
• Supervise and ensure timely and efficient procurement and contract clearance processes (implementing partners, consultancy, internal agreements) by:
• Ensuring the respect of donor requirements in all procurement activities and adequate documentation of the process.
• Supervising the preparation of documents for clearance of contracts; Undertaking due diligence checks on all contracts, internal agreements, implementing contracts issued by the countries of the regions.
• Ensure timely procurement process clearance from Procurement officers of PACO and ESARO.
• Issue any necessary explanation of exceptions to IUCN Policy.
• Liaising with all necessary units to ensure a smooth clearance process (Programmes, OLA, Legal department, Regional Directors etc.) and take lead on inputs, revisions, etc.
• Ensure monitoring and oversight of the project’s contracts procurement clearance processes, including liaising with the IUCN procurement officer, documenting the contracts under review, and ensuring timely contract procurement clearance.
• Liaise and coordinate with regional colleagues to ensure a consistent approach to project finance and administrational procedures through streamlining an efficient internal agreement process.
• Any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.

REQUIREMENTS
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Education & Work Experience;

• 6 years relevant experience in a grants finance role preferably in a large or international NGO
• Direct experience with government international development agencies
• Experience building financial tracking and reporting systems.
• Understanding of accounting software
• Accounting designation such as CPA, CMA, CA or related experience and qualifications is a must.
• Fluency in English and French, both written and verbal.

Core Competencies;

• Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
• Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive, and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multiethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
• Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives, and values in a diligent and professional manner.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility for individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.

JOB DESCRIPTION
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The Regional Office Driver is responsible for providing driving and chauffeur duties to assigned staff/guests of IUCN Regional Office. S/he ensures the highest standards of discretion and integrity, sense of responsibility, excellent knowledge of protocol and security issues. The Regional Office Driver also demonstrates a client-oriented approach, courtesy, tact, and ability to work with people of different national and cultural backgrounds. S/he coordinates other drivers in the movement of personnel and deliveries and oversees the maintenance of IUCN Regional Office vehicles.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Transport and logistic support;

• Provide driving services to the Regional Director and other regional office staff as instructed by the line manager.
• Follow up planning and scheduling using Outlook Calendar and register transportation request.
• Deliver payment transfers to the bank and/or the suppliers, conduct cash purchases for Regional Office expenditure.
• Deliver and collect mail, documents, supplies, and other items as required.
• Distribute mail as needed, both incoming and outgoing.
• Ensure that all steps required by traffic rules and regulations are taken and adhered to, in case of involvement in an accident.
• Ensure availability of all the required documents/supplies including vehicle insurance, vehicle registration, vehicle logs, office directory, map of the city/country, first aid kit, and necessary spare parts in the assigned vehicle.
• Keep track of insurance and other tax formalities.
• Support other drivers with the preparation of job cards, inspecting of vehicles and ensuring all vehicles are fully equipped with tools, first aid kits.

Guest management & Protocol Liaison;

• Meet official and high-ranking personnel at the airport and facilitate immigration and customs formalities, as required.
• Drive the vehicle assigned by IUCN for the transportation of staff, Regional Office guests and other authorized personnel.
• Complete visa application forms for RDs office both manually and electronically, submission and collection of Visas.

Vehicle maintenance management;

• Ensure vehicle is always kept in good running condition through addressing minor repairs, planning for major repairs, timely changes of oil, check of tires, brakes, water levels and car washing.
• Responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the assigned vehicle, checks oil, water, battery, brakes, tires, etc., and perform minor repairs and arrange for other repairs.
• Keep records as required and maintain a clear daily record of work done and/or vehicle movement.
• Always ensure the safety of the vehicle and accessories during the time of use.
• Facilitate routine maintenance of office vehicles, including proper and regular completion of vehicle maintenance records.
• Inform the Administration Officer of any major repairs required and ensure that the vehicles are always kept clean and in good working order.
• Log official trips, daily mileage, gas consumption, oil changes, greasing, etc.
• Keep track of timely car insurance renewals
• Ensure compliance with applicable traffic laws, regulations, and/or IUCN rules, standards, and guidelines on vehicle usage.

Act as back-up for Administration & Project teams;

• Assist in planning and participation in field work as required.
• Taking notes during meetings and during field work
• Assist in RD operations and office operations including photocopying, printing basic documents, and making deliveries.
• Act as a backup for the Front Office Administration Assistant on a needs basis by answering the phone and taking care of visitors’ registration, incl. maintaining a register of incoming visitors.
• Liaison for RDs office with taxi companies for pick up and drop offs.
• Creating simple excel forms and data input for basic inventory, transfers as requested.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

REQUIREMENTS
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Education;

• Diploma in any field of study
• Certificate in computer Packages
• Possession of a valid Driver’s license
• A mechanical certificate is required.
• Defensive driving skills required.

Work Experience;

• Minimum 8 years driving experience with 5 years’ experience of driving business executives and leaders in reputable firms within the private or public sector.
• Exceptional knowledge of urban and rural road networks and driving conditions.
• Clean driving record, with no violation of traffic law or major accidents.
• Flexibility to work outside regular business hours and on weekends as needed.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and experience working in a multi-stakeholder project environment.
• Discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
• Punctuality and reliability with a customer-focused mindset.
• Ability to perform a variety of repetitive and routine tasks and duties.
• Ability to handle a large volume of work possibly under time constraints.
• Good knowledge of administrative rules and regulations.
• Ability to operate and maintain a variety of computerized business machines and office equipment to provide efficient delivery of service.
• Ability to organize and complete multiple tasks by establishing priorities.
• Demonstrates excellent knowledge of driving rules and regulations and skills in minor vehicle repair.
• Demonstrates excellent knowledge of protocol and security issues.

Language Proficiency;

• Fluency in English and Kiswahili, both written and verbal.

Core Competencies;

• Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
• Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive, and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multiethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
• Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives, and values in a diligent and professional manner.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility of individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.

JOB DESCRIPTION
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Programme development, implementation and portfolio management;

• Lead responsibility for designing, resource mobilization and implementation of research, and support for new and ongoing coastal and marine science and research projects through all phases from concept and proposal development to implementation and reporting;
• Assist with project-specific research tasks, especially those envisaged in the ‘IslandPlas: Advancing Circular Solutions to Plastic Pollution in African Islands’ project, including but not limited to compiling and synthesizing scientific background information, designing and preparing research tools and materials, assisting with external engagement and management of contractual arrangements with experts, and identifying priority research needs in the region;
• Propose, plan and help facilitate research on initiatives that advance scientific insights relevant to policy reform and business innovation and to biodiversity conservation outcomes, with a particular attention given to addressing plastic pollution;
• Facilitate the synthesis of science-focused informational and knowledge products to help develop an evidence base to inform actionable plastic-reduction policies and strategies for State and non-state actors;
• Assist the IslandPlas and ‘End Plastic Pollution International Collaborative (EPPIC)’ projects to compile or develop resources, collate insights from engagements and preparation of inputs to meetings and/or conferences;
• Support preparation of written project updates (including reports, white papers, presentations, and e-mail text) and their promotion with donors, supporters, partners, collaborators, and with IUCN’s wider Ocean Plastics community;
• Facilitate and support regional deliberations on emerging priority topics of scientific relevance arising from the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs), and regional conventions and agreements to inform reforms in policies, with a particular attention given to plastics pollution discourse;
• Participate in the development of scientifically-relevant key performance indicators (KPIs), with a particular attention for plastics initiatives, and ensure their adequate monitoring and reporting.

Technical scientific leadership and external engagement;

• Function as a COR Programme subject matter expert on ocean plastics science and ensure that IUCN is adequately represented in relevant international, regional and country fora and facilitate discussions on emerging issues of concern to position IUCN as a reference in the region;
• Lead the COR Programme’s convening and participation in regional science-policy-business platforms to contribute to discussions on locally-relevant innovations required, with a particular attention given to plastic value chains;
• Represent IUCN at key conferences, meetings and convenings, presenting information and novel findings from primary research and assessments, and reporting broader convening insights back to the team;
• Act as a focal point in facilitating and supporting the involvement of IUCN Commissions, Members and other members of the Secretariat in the development of innovative projects, with a particular attention given to projects aiming at bridging the gap between the science and business community and enhancing strong collaboration between scientists and private sector/entrepreneurs;
• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of relevant peer-reviewed literature and new publication and select key takeaways for sharing and updating the regional COR Programme team members and for programme development;
• Maintain an up-to-date archive of scientific studies and outputs from IUCN and partners to ensure ease of access to the most up-to-date, reliable and credible data, and the development of a system to maintain up-to-date fact sheets, blog posts, infographics, figures, and other scientific materials for journalists, general audiences, and/or decision- and policy-makers;
• Provide support to develop new and compelling communication assets for use in response to scientific informational requests and opportunities;
• Assist with drafting information outputs and reports that integrate an understanding of the global plastic pollution crisis with policy, waste management, and other relevant upstream, midstream and downstream solutions;
• Work collaboratively with the regional communications team to convey important insights about ocean plastics science in a variety of formats including (but not limited to) blogs, action alerts, comment letters to governments and national authorities, presentations, reports, media inquiry responses, social media posts and peer-reviewed publications.

Other responsibilities;

• Perform other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

REQUIREMENTS
Position requirements;

Education;

• An advanced university degree preferably in relevant disciplines, such as, marine science, marine ecology, oceanography, chemistry, sustainability studies, environmental science, environmental engineering, marine resource management, or related fields; A PhD degree would be considered an asset.
• Professional certification in circular economy, waste innovation, environmental design, sustainable material management or in related areas will be an added advantage;
• Computer literacy in relation to office applications (word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint) use of internet and online communication tools.

Work Experience;

We’re looking for an outstanding, hands-on, highly motivated, autonomous, innovative, solution oriented, results driven and resourceful individual with at least eight to ten (8-10) years of prior proven experience in:

• spearheading science and research, in particular on ocean plastics;
• skilled in collaborative science and research programmes with demonstrated ability to engage across cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary boundaries, displaying sensitivity and respect for diversity;
• highly collaborative mentality, with a record of successfully leading or participating in collaborative research;
• interested and enthusiastic to help drive collaborative scientific research in the Western Indian Ocean;
• advanced quantitative skills, including analysis of quantitative datasets, code-writing and producing effective and captivating data visualizations for communication purposes;
• experienced in engaging global, regional and national stakeholders, and particularly business and industry representatives, in particular on emerging plastics sector innovation;
• able to interact effectively with and directly support or identify experts required to support varying aspects the programme, in particular of the plastics area of work;
• good understanding of core principles that promote environmental justice and equity, including just transition in environmental sustainability;
• interested in marine conservation, and has in-depth knowledge of marine and coastal ecosystems, and societal impacts and threats facing the ocean;
• strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex scientific or technical concepts to varied and cross-sector audiences;
• ability to work under pressure managing competing demands and complex situations and deliver satisfactory and timely results;
• committed to continuous learning and proactive and mature attitude towards self-development.

Language requirement;

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English is essential. Ability to communicate in French and/or Portuguese an added advantage.

Core Competencies;

• Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
• Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multi ethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
• Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives and values in a diligent and professional manner.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility of individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.

Functional competencies;

• Adheres to IUCN core values of Transparency, Inclusiveness, Professionalism and Accountability;
• Strong collaborative scientific research skills and experience;
• Ability to manage complex situations in the design and roll-out of a fully-fledged scientific research programme in the area of ocean plastics;
• Be willing to undertake frequent travel and interact with different stakeholders from diverse cultures

JOB DESCRIPTION
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategy and Planning:

• Lead the development and implementation of the IUCN Great Blue Wall Communications and Outreach Strategy in collaboration with COR team members, regional communications lead, and thematic leads.
• Manage communications strategies, products, and creative campaigns, particularly for the IslandPlas project, across various island areas in Eastern and Western Africa.

Content Development and Management:

• Oversee the creation and distribution of a wide array of communication materials, including advertisements, videos, brochures, press releases, slide decks, and letters.
• Develop and edit internal and external communication materials, such as blog posts, media materials, newsletters, op-eds, website content, and other related products.
• Ideate and support the design and promotion of interactive media pieces, including infographics, slideshows, charts, and videos.

Digital Engagement and Media Relations:

• Enhance digital presence through web-based platforms, social media channels like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
• Develop and maintain key media contacts and coordinate media outreach, including pitching, handling requests, and monitoring news coverage.
• Plan and manage events like publication launches, round-table discussions, and meetings.

Outreach and Advocacy:

• Co-develop and implement outreach strategies for the Great Blue Wall initiative and the IslandPlas project.
• Build and maintain relationships with communications and public relations contacts across various sectors to improve the COR program's image and open new opportunities.
• Spearhead the development of platforms and dashboards for showcasing progress towards the targets of the Great Blue Wall and IslandPlas project.
• Spearhead and oversee the development of web-based platforms and dashboards for showcasing progress towards achievement of the targets of the Great Blue Wall, the IslandPlas project and alignment with targets of global frameworks such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, and Sustainable Development Goal 14.

Internal Communications and Support:

• Facilitate effective internal communication within the COR Programme and IUCN ESARO.
• Provide strategic communications feedback to advance projects' impacts and participate in regional and country teams planning to integrate communications priorities.
• Support the team in developing effective communication tools and managing strategies for reports, events, conferences, and news opportunities.

Administration and Coordination:

• Provide general administrative support, including scheduling, event logistics, and maintaining the regional oceans’ constituency stakeholders contact database.
• Monitor and support the publications process, liaising with the IUCN Editorial Board for advice and publication clearance.
• Other duties as may be assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Position requirements:

Education;

• A degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field combined with an experience in similar organization/s or programmatic setting;
• Computer literacy in relation to office applications (word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint) use of internet and online communication and knowledge management tools.

Work Experience;

We’re looking for an outstanding, hands-on, highly motivated, autonomous, innovative, solution oriented, results driven and resourceful individual with at least seven years of proven experience in:

• Communications, public relations, or journalism, ideally in an international, multicultural context or prior work in a global organization preferred.
• Strategic and innovative thinking with strong leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational, project management, and collaborative abilities.
• Creative problem-solving approach with a commitment to IUCN's mission and values.
• Social media management and how to use it to impact diverse audiences.
• Working with reporters or members of the media and established media contacts.
• Communicating effectively with government officials, private sector and civil society in the African continent or the western Indian Ocean Region.
• Interest in coastal and ocean management, marine conservation and restoration, ocean, and blue economy entrepreneurship development in the western Indian Ocean Region.
• Articulate, versatile, highly skilled writer with professional writing experience with demonstratable professional clips or writing samples.
• Social media savvy with the ability to properly utilize each channel for the best impact to varied targeted audiences.
• Ability to work effectively within a tight deadline in a fast-paced office environment, both independently and as part of a regional team.
• Excellent inter-personal communication skills, including the ability to encourage collaboration with other programs, regional and country offices, global headquarters, and partners.
• Ability to think creatively and collaboratively about all elements of communications work.
• Excellent inter-personal communication skills, including the ability to encourage collaboration with other regional programs, international offices, and partners.
• Experience in working with a content management system (CMS).
• Visual skills and creativity in photography, graphic design, and adobe suite of applications.
• Adaptable to rapidly changing priorities and able to manage multiple deadlines and deliver high quality work products.

Language requirement;

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English is essential, with ability to communicate in French and/or Portuguese is an added advantage.

Core Competencies;

• Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
• Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive, and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multiethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
• Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives, and values in a diligent and professional manner.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility for individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.

Functional competencies;

• Adheres to IUCN core values of Transparency, Inclusiveness, Professionalism and Accountability.
• Ability to develop and implement communications activities as well as communication products based on co-developed communication strategies.
• Ability to manage multiple communications channels (such as websites, social media, blogs, publications, media relations, and events), and ensuring responsive communications coordination among partners and stakeholders.
• Be willing to undertake frequent travel and interact with different stakeholders from diverse cultures

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Implementation and portfolio management;

• Lead responsibility to develop a new program of work on Blue Finance and Innovation across a range of blue economy sectors, including in addressing plastic pollution in collaboration with regional teams and partners;
• Coordinate regional alignment of Blue Finance work with other IUCN affiliated financing initiatives, including the Blue Natural Capital Financing Facility (BNCFF), Blue Carbon Accelerator Fund (BCAF), and others;
• Day-to-day coordination of projects implementation and activities delivery in line with blue finance and innovation in order to ensure the highest quality of outputs and outcomes as well as guarantee that activities are implemented in line with project workplans and budgets;
• Participate in the develop of relevant programme KPIs and ensure its good monitoring and reporting;
• Support the regional COR team on technical reporting and on the development of a regional finance and innovation annual report.

Strategic and Technical leadership;

• Provide leadership, strategic guidance and direction in building a new blue financing constituency for a regenerative and sustainable Blue Economy, including liaising with external partners and organizations in the blue finance and innovation space
• Advise on emerging opportunities on blue finance and innovation that demonstrate potential to change the ocean investment landscape in the WIO;
• In collaboration with the IUCN Ocean team, identify and implement strategic initiatives to support the establishment of a WIO regional Science-Business-Policy platform, incorporating key corporate partners to support agenda-setting and action in blue finance and innovation;
• Act as a driving force for innovation to position IUCN as a leading organization in the region in blue finance and innovative conservation approaches and mechanisms, and in particular on efforts to reach a nature and people positive 30x30 target;
• Ensuring that IUCN’s work in the region is of high technical quality, based on good science and drawing upon state-of-the-art thinking and knowledge;
• Unlock synergies and collaboration with other regional and national COR area of works and IUCN ESARO’s programmes and projects when and where possible;

External engagement and communication:

• In consultation with the Regional Head, Coastal and Ocean Resilience ensure that IUCN is adequately represented in relevant international, regional and country fora and facilitate discussions on relevant marine and coastal emerging issues to position IUCN as a reference in the country;
• Lead responsibility in identification and establishing and sustaining relationships with relevant financial institutions and platforms in the region and internationally;
• Provide evidence-based support and facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues on emerging issues and policy debates around blue finance and innovation;
• Lead coherent and consistent communication of lessons learnt to key decision-makers and other stakeholders within the region and globally as appropriate, including via the web, print and media;
• In collaboration with Regional Head, Coastal and Ocean Resilience identify and manage potential risks associated with IUCN’s public positions in the region and design strategies to mitigate the identified risks;
• Act as a focal point for facilitating and supporting the involvement of IUCN Commissions, Members and other members of the Secretariat in the development and implementation of programmatic activities related to blue finance and innovation.

Programme Development and Resource Mobilization:

• As appropriate contribute in fundraising activities including through development of concepts and projects documents. Contribute to establishing, maintaining and nurturing good relationships with donors, funding agencies and other technical partners so as to ensure the financial viability of the blue finance and innovation area of work in the COR programme;
• Spearhead the development of a pipeline of bankable projects in the coastal and marine conservation realm, including on actions that unlock a regenerative blue economy for coastal communities;
• Undertake research and synthesize briefs on the growing body of work on blue finance and innovation through other strategic opportunities and initiatives in the ocean ESG space.

Monitoring and Evaluation;

• Contribute to the development of the COR Programme Monitoring and Evaluation Framework by providing leadership on identification and mitigation of key risks and barriers to regenerative blue investments in the WIO region;
• Responsible for the coordination of programme monitoring and evaluation in the blue finance and innovation area of work.
• In collaboration with the Regional Head, Coastal and Ocean Resilience, ensure IUCN’s work is accountable to donors and other stakeholders through the establishment and management of effective accountability mechanisms and processes;
• Provide leadership to use data for programme decision-making, for the implementation of management actions based on the findings of monitoring, and to ensure that feedback from stakeholders inform programme development;
• Contribute to programme reporting processes and requirements.

Other responsibilities:

• Perform other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

REQUIREMENTS
Position requirements:

Education;

• An advanced degree in Finance, Sustainable Financing, Development Investment, Innovation, Conservation Finance or related fields;
• Computer literacy in relation to office applications (word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint) use of internet and online communication tools;

Work Experience;

We’re looking for an outstanding, hands-on, highly motivated, autonomous, innovative, solution oriented, results driven and resourceful individual with at least eight to ten years of proven experience in:

• Sound expertise in formulating blue finance and innovation in support of conservation of marine and coastal areas including marine protected areas (MPAs) and conserved areas (LMMAs-locally managed marine areas) or related fields;
• Practical experience in finance and investment roles, preferably in areas related to sustainability, environmental finance, or impact investing. This could involve working at financial institutions, investment firms, asset management companies, or environmental organizations focusing on sustainable finance.
• Strong expertise and experience in engaging global, regional and national stakeholders in blue finance and innovation;
• Up-to-date knowledge on emerging innovations and opportunities on blue finance in relation to coastal and marine biodiversity conservation, with particular focus on financing effective management of MPAs and LMMAs;
• Familiarity with established blue finance biodiversity conservation approaches and methodologies and processes, in particular in the context of the Global Biodiversity Framework and 30x30 target;
• Skilled in network development and alliance building to consult and collaborate across boundaries to build strategic relationships and achieve common goals, with demonstrated ability to build consensus in cross-cultural situations;
• Ability to interact effectively with and directly support or identify experts required to support all aspects of the COR Programme in the blue finance and innovation area of work;
• Experience with result-based portfolio and project cycle management, monitoring and evaluation methodologies and principles and facilitation skills;
• Experience with project and programme development, management and reporting, with demonstrated budgeting and programme planning abilities;
• Strong interpersonal, management and supervisory skills and experience, with a minimum of 2 years’ in managing teams;
• Computer literacy in relation to office applications (word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint) use of internet and online communication tools;
• Demonstrates strong leadership and people-management experience including supervision of staff, consultants and coordination and effective management of virtual team settings;
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure managing competing demands and complex situations and deliver satisfactory and timely results;
• Must be a strong team player with proven communication and diplomacy skills and ability to work effectively with multicultural and multidisciplinary teams displaying sensitivity and respect for diversity;
• Must be a proactive individual who is able to energize and motivate teams;
• Committed to continuous learning and proactive and mature attitude towards self-development;

Language requirement;

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English is essential, with ability to communicate in French and/or Portuguese is an added advantage;

Core Competencies;

• Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
• Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multi ethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
• Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives and values in a diligent and professional manner.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility of individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.

Functional competencies;

• Adheres to IUCN core values of Transparency, Inclusiveness, Professionalism and Accountability;
• Strong interpersonal, management and supervisory skills and experience, with a minimum of 2 years’ in managing teams;
• Ability to manage complex situations and lead the establishment of blue finance and innovation programme portfolios and network and alliance building;
• Be willing to undertake frequent travel and interact with different stakeholders from diverse cultures.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under direct supervision of the IUCN Kenya Country Representative; in close consultation with designated Programme Officers at NDMA, Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and Conservation International and, under the guidance of the Global Programme Manager of the GCF Programme in IUCN, the Chief of Party (CoP) is responsible for the overall management of the TWENDE project on behalf of the Executing partners and within the limitations laid down by the Project Steering Committee (PSC).
• The CoP will provide technical advice and support to the implementation of the different project activities, and in doing so will work to ensure coherence with the TWENDE project framework developed at the national project management unit (PMU) and county levels (coordination/implementation) hubs with relevant parties. The CoP will oversee the overall monitoring of the use of funds and the procurement plan. S/he will be head of the Project Management Unit (PMU) and will be supported by field coordinators, project officers, senior finance officer and a project administrator. In addition, s/he will provide guidance on the strategic direction of the project to other project management unit staff (i.e., coordinators, administration, and finance) and technical experts recruited to deliver project activities. S/he will ensure proper monitoring, evaluation and reporting of all project activities. The CoP will also serve as the Secretary of the Project Steering Committee which is comprised of key stakeholders and project partners.
• The position requires significant coordination skills, broad general and technical knowledge, experience in the region and skills to ensure coherence and consistency despite urgent deadlines.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Manage the overall implementation of the TWENDE Project activities:

• Develop annual activity and procurement work plans, as well as budgets based on expected year-end outputs, and ensure close monitoring of activities and delivery.
• Work closely with the finance team on matters including financial planning, expenditure tracking, sub-contracting to Executing Entities to ensure IUCN policies are applied and GCF requirements are followed.
• Follow up on 1) the compliance of project implementation with GCF policies, IUCN policies and safeguards 2) the performance of the projects with the target indicators, logical framework, workplan and budget through regular reporting and on-site supervision missions.
• Work with project staff to receive, review and synthesize monitoring information to support adaptive management and ensure timely compliance with internal and GCF monitoring and reporting requirements, especially to produce the GCF annual performance reports (APRs).
• Prepare any required updates / summaries on the projects and participate in project-related meetings with the GCF, government, executing entity partners etc.
• Supervise personnel engaged in delivering aspects of the project.

Coordinate partnership with key stakeholders;

• Develop and coordinate the project management unit (PMU).
• Build, maintain and manage effective working relationships with consortium members. Ensure that each consortium partner is performing to the highest standards, support project objectives and targets, and comply with GCF rules and regulations.
• Serve as the single point of contact and project representative with partners and external stakeholders.
• Ensure continuous liaison with the relevant Government agencies, NGOs, Civil Society and IUCN.

Provide technical advice and support to the implementation of the Project activities;

• Provide technical inputs to the implementation of the different project activities and outputs – by providing technical inputs to workshop presentations, to studies, to advisory services and to other activities and outputs of the project.
• Provide technical support and back-up services to project managers.
• Prepare, in consultation with the partners, TORs for consultants and comment on their reports.
• Oversee all cross-cutting activities and ensure their strong support of and synergy with technical implementation objectives and vision, including, but not limited to: communications and outreach; monitoring, evaluation & learning (MEL), knowledge management; and, gender and social inclusion;
• Monitor and report the implementation of environmental and social risk management measures through the programme cycle.

Monitoring, evaluation and reporting of the overall Project deliverables;

• Carry out regular follow-up and monitoring of implementation activities.
• Carry out regular monitoring and reporting on risks and mitigation measures.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of required reports, including bi-annual progress and expenditure reports, per the requirements of GCF.
• Provide regular updates on the project’s progress where possible for all parties and reporting requirements.
• Facilitate independent evaluations.

Other responsibilities:

• Fundraising and programme development support
• Perform other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

REQUIREMENTS
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Education;

• Master’s degree in environmental science/natural resources/management/policy, finance, economics or other relevant subject.

Work Experience;

• Ten (10) years or more of progressively responsible national/region work experience implementing large programs with demonstrated strong management and coordinating skills.
• At least five (5) years of management experience, including direct supervision of professional and support staff and assembling teams working on multi-faceted programs.
• Expertise and experience in climate change and relevant sectors such as energy, agriculture, water and cross-cutting issues such as gender, environmental and social impact assessments.
• Experience leading teams in the country/region and/or proven ability to establish productive working relationships with multi-sectoral partners/counterparts/stakeholders.
• Experience in gender mainstreaming in programmes.
• Experience in programme design, monitoring and evaluation is an asset.

Language Proficiency;

• Fluency in written and spoken English is a must.

Core Competencies;

• Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
• Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multi ethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
• Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives and values in a diligent and professional manner.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility of individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.

Functional competencies;

• Excellent oral and written communication skills including ability to summarize complex donor program.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to interact effectively with all levels of staff and partners from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Capability to develop and implement effective strategies and tactics for accomplishing assigned duties.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically and synthetically across fields and topics.
• Strong ability to work independently and/or remotely, while maintaining productivity.
• Demonstrated ability to work in team environments and cultivate productive partnerships across a diversity of stakeholders.
• Ability to go beyond established procedures and models, propose new approaches which expand the range of projects.
• Proven networking, team building, organizational and communication skills.
• Clear commitment to fostering a culture of high performance and accountability, demonstrated in the ability to manage by results,
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills:
• Committed to continuous learning and proactive and mature attitude towards self-development.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• The primary task of the Programme Officer will be to contribute to the effective implementation of the SOS Lemurs (Phase II) initiative in Madagascar. This position will also contribute to delivering other species-related initiatives, project development, and liaison with IUCN Programmes, Members, commissions, and partners.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

• Ensure the efficient implementation of the SOS Lemurs (Phase II) initiative and other initiatives with the same geographic scope;
• Be responsible for the day-to-day management of the grants following IUCN SOS standardised procedures and in coordination with the Grants Coordinator;
• Support the development of operational guidelines and templates and contribute to preparing the documentation for calls for proposals to be published on the IUCN Grants Portal;
• Assist in reviewing applications received by the SOS Secretariat, including review of applications’ eligibility under SOS criteria and supporting the SOS Technical Advisory Group's review of applications;
• Liaise with grantees;
• Monitor grants and organise and conduct project monitoring missions, as well as prepare mission reports in coordination with the Grants Coordinator;
• Review progress and final reports submitted by grantees and prepare project evaluation reports;
• Lead on the data collection process for SOS Lemurs (Phase II) grants to feed into the SOS monitoring and evaluation framework and other tracking tools;
• Support the collation of impact data and the capture of lessons learned towards the development of various communication outputs;
• Support the organisational development and capacity-building activities of SOS Lemurs;
• Support policy interventions at national, regional and international level and make linkages between the IUCN Save Our Species on-the-ground work and relevant policies at these levels;
• Ensure timely and quality communication of the SOS Lemurs (Phase II) initiative through IUCN’s regional and global communications channels;
• Support the organisation of workshops and webinars;
• Keep the IUCN Eastern and Southern Regional Office and other programmes implemented in the Western Indian Region updated on SOS Lemurs projects and beneficiaries in order to avoid duplication and increase efficiency, e.g. updates on calls for proposals, the project pipeline, joint visibility and communications opportunities, grantee due diligence processes, etc.
• Contribute to drafting yearly progress reports to the donor;
• Regularly liaise with relevant donors (i.e French Development Agency, EU Delegation, KfW, etc.) in the country, providing regular updates on the status of relevant SOS Lemurs projects;
• Assist in identifying opportunities for partnerships and project development, and support IUCN SOS fundraising efforts;
• Support the development of proposals for the Species Conservation Action team.
• Represent IUCN at relevant international events;
• Contribute towards knowledge management for conservation in conjunction with the Center for Science and Data;
• Carry out other relevant tasks at the request of and in agreement with the line manager.

REQUIREMENTS

• MSc degree (or higher) in biodiversity conservation, species/habitat management, environmental sciences or other relevant discipline;
• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in the field of biodiversity conservation, preferably involving on-the-ground conservation activities;
• Knowledge of and experience with the main biodiversity conservation challenges in Madagascar;
• Experience in grant-making or project management, with strong project management skills at multiple levels, including planning, implementation, reporting, and monitoring;
• Experience in developing and implementing activities aimed at building the capacity of civil society organisations;
• Fundraising experience is an asset;
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation is an asset;
• capacity to produce high-quality briefs and reports;
• Good knowledge of IUCN standards and knowledge tools for species conservation is an asset;
• Fluency in Malagasy, excellent spoken and written English and French;
• Computer literacy in MS Office packages;
• Excellent organizational and networking skills;
• Solution-oriented approach: demonstrates a ‘thinking outside the box’ attitude;
• Demonstrated ability for critical thinking, analysis and strategic planning;
• Proven ability to bring ideas from concept through realization and implementation;
• Outstanding writing and editing skills; strong attention to detail;
• Strong interpersonal and presentation skills;
• Ability to cope with varied workload and flexible working hours;
• Capacity to work effectively under time pressure and extended hours;
• Willingness to travel sometimes at short notice;
• Team-oriented attitude and ability to work independently;
• Proven ability to work with multi-disciplinary groups, including governments, experts, civil society and local communities;
• Respond well to remote supervision;
• A demonstrated high-level ability to work in a multi-cultural, international organisation, applying high standards of respect, tolerance, and support as required.

Closing date:      31 January 2024

DUTIES:

The Finance Officer- Coastal & Ocean Resilience (COR) will perform the following specific duties:

Projects financial management and reporting;

• Oversee and guide integrated financial management and reporting for the COR programme.
• Assess, review, and ensure application of IUCN and donors finance-related policies, instructions, and procedures.
• Updating projects expenditure into the NAV financial system ensuring they are properly and accurately coded and captured into the correct budget lines.
• Assign new signed projects award numbers on award vision and ensure the project is converted into a C-project on the project portal.
• Maintain projects and donors’ database information and files in both hard and soft copies.
• Support in updating the project portal ensuring projects budgets are well captured on the portal.
• Provide direct, proactive, hands-on budget and reports management support by providing monthly analyzed budget information / expenditure report to the Project Managers.
• Ensure compliance of all donor requirements, as per signed agreements, when reviewing expenses and preparing financial reports.
• Commission projects and specific audits as per donor reporting requirements and ensure completion on a timely basis and submission as per contract deadlines to donors.
• Ensure compliance by continually staying up to date on changes in donor and IUCN regulations and ensuring documentation and communication of all relevant regulations to unit members and program unit e.g., Program and Project Managers.
• Periodically review the donor receivables and follow up on projects income to ensure IUCN receives projects income as per funds requests on a timely basis.
• Update the time management system (TMS) with the staff time budget allocations on projects and ensure that staff time cost recovery is up to date and as per budget.
• On a quarterly basis, prepare the projects in deficit analysis report and ensure project balances are well justified, follow up on income receipt and allocations from donors and other allocations from internal IUCN offices and ensure closed projects are properly closed in the award.
• Coordinate, review and endorse responses to audit from internal and external audits and ensure the implementation of accounting audit recommendations.
• Perform other relevant duties as required.

Sub grants/Partners contractual/Financial Management Accountabilities;

• Participate in the Due Diligence process of partner’s selection for all sections relating to financial management and reporting.
• Carry out periodic sub-grantee/partner monitoring and financial reviews and provide appropriate follow up actions to ensure timely Implementing Partners (IPs) reporting in line with contractual obligations and entered in Nav.
• Under the guidance of the Senior finance officer, carry out financial management training for sub-grantee and support them to maintain proper books of accounts.
• Act as a resource to IPs on grant compliance issues related to donor requirements.
• Reconcile IP records on a quarterly basis and ensure that IUCN and partners records are reconciled.
• Monitor settlement of disbursements to IPs to ensure timeliness in disbursements to IPs.

Budget and Proposal Development;

• Focal point in COR programme budget development, including all projects, working with the programme team, HR and Admin teams to support in the proposal development process.
• Support in the proposal development processes through development of budgets of new projects funded by different donors eg GAC, EU, GCF, GEF, USAID, BMU IKI among others ensuring adequate costs are included based on IUCN’s budgeting guidelines as required.
• Support reviews that ensure proposal budgets/budget amendments are in line with donor regulations.
• Recommend or facilitate opportunities to help build staff and partners capacity in budget formulation and management.
• Support in annual IUCN budgeting process and development.

Others;

• Support in review and sign off process of donor contracts and consultancy contracts ensuring that IUCN contract and procurement compliance regulations are adhered to.
• Maintain an update memorandum register of fixed assets acquired by the various projects in order to track the acquisition, movement and disposal of such project fixed assets in line with donor agreements.
• Assist the Senior Finance Officer - Programmes in preparing and reviewing the project status report when called upon.
• Support in annual IUCN audits.
• Carry out any other duties that may be assigned by supervisors from time to time.

REQUIREMENTS
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Education;

• First degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Relevant professional qualification in accounting – CPA, ACCA level II, CIMA preferred.

Work Experience;

• At least 8 years’ relevant work experience in the field of accounting/finance, project management, business analysis, quality assurance and/or risk management.
• Prior experience in a similar role with a recognized regional or international development agency is highly desirable.
• Hands on experience in project proposal development and implementation with the following donors - GAC, GEF, GCF, EU, USAID, BMU IKI, KFW among others.
• Working knowledge and use of ERP-Navision.

Language Proficiency;

• Good verbal and written communication skills in English working knowledge of Kiswahili and another IUCN/Regional language would be an added advantage.

Functional competencies;

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Proficiency in advanced excel would be an advantage.
• Maintains high personal integrity and confidentiality.
• Result oriented person with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, work under pressure and meet deadlines while maintaining work relationships in the face of conflicting demands.
• Excellent relationship management and communication skills with the ability to work in a dynamic team environment.
• A confident and positive attitude with excellent cultural awareness and sensitivity.
• Willingness to travel.
• A self-starter who requires minimum supervision.

Core Competencies;

• Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
• Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive, and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multiethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
• Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives, and values in a diligent and professional manner.
• Accountability: Takes responsibility of individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.

JOB DESCRIPTION
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Reporting to Country Representative, Kenya, the Technical Advisor, Integrated Water Resources Management will work with relevant project with the TWENDE team, county government staffs, service providers, local communities, Water Resources Authority (WRA), DAI partners/staff and IUCN staff from the regional and Kenya country offices as an IUCN technical lead for water management and development interventions both planning and technical delivery.
• The Technical Advisor, Integrated Water Resources Management will be responsible for technical and operational delivery of key objectives of the IUCN component of the STAWI project.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

• Under the direction of the Country Representative, Kenya and ESARO Water Programme Officer, the specific responsibilities of the Technical Advisor, Integrated Water Resources Management are to:

Project Management;

• Facilitate the preparation of detailed work plans, budgets and schedules for project activities implementation in collaboration with partners and stakeholders;
• Assist in processes related to inception, contracting and start-up of activities including establishment of indicators, benchmarks, work plans and inception workshops;
• Coordinate and monitor the administration of project budgets and work plans according to approved external contracts and internal agreements, work plans, internal procedures and policies, and donor requirements;
• Lead the organization’s field level workshops and similar events.

Technical Direction and Capacity building;

• Support the development of evidence-based water allocation plans through synthesis of data to develop water balances for target counties.
• Assess the potential for nature-based solutions that will increase water supply for drinking and productive uses
• Design specific watershed restoration interventions
• Generate potential financing options for watershed protection measures.
• Support the capacity building for WRA and Counties to implement the water allocation plans and the sub-catchment management plans (SCMPs).
• Develop policy-relevant materials to communicate the relevant information arising from STAWI to stakeholders.

Monitoring, Evaluation, Communications and Knowledge Management;

• In coordination with M&E Officer, develop and apply the projects monitoring instruments and systems.
• Contribute development and timely submission of all required IUCN reports
• Undertake regular visits to project sites, evaluate programmatic outputs, and impacts both quantitatively and in terms of quality implementation.
• Document case studies, best practices and lessons learned and develop communication materials for dissemination to target audiences.

Fundraising and Project Development;

• Support the identification of new funding opportunities to scale-out project activities in the water sector
• Support networking with key development partners, national institutions and NGOs to support project implementation.
• Keep abreast of development needs and Programme opportunities in the landscape including those in line with IUCN’s sectoral priorities and programmatic principles.

Representation;

• Network and liaise with all the partners and potential partners, developing and maintaining partnerships and strong relationships across all sectors (including the private sector).
• Maintain good working relationships with MDAs, non-state actors, private sector, community leadership and visiting donor teams
• Represent IUCN on issues at strategic, political and technical meetings, seminars and other events and processes as may be required from time to time.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Programme Managers

REQUIREMENTS

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Education;

• Masters in a relevant field preferably, Water Resources Management, Environmental Studies, Hydrology, Natural resources management.
• Knowledge on issues related to sustainable agriculture, climate change, will be an added advantage.
• Solid knowledge and understanding of the water sector in Kenya and related topics such as biodiversity conservation, forest landscape restoration, natural resources management, climate change/REDD+, governance, or in sustainable development.
• Practical knowledge in the implementation of field projects, with linkages to national policy processes and programmes.
• Knowledge in fundraising and resource mobilization.
• Understanding of Multi-Stakeholder Processes, Creation and Facilitation Dialogues, Partnerships and Synergies;

Work Experience;

• At least 7 years of technical experience in Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM);
• Demonstrated experience in adaptive management, as applied to climate change adaptation projects and ecosystems management;
• Work experience in the Kenya water sector is preferable;
• Demonstrable experience in working in ASALs of Kenya;
• Demonstrable experience in political, advisory and facilitation skills;
• Demonstrable experience in engaging with governmental institutions at county and national levels especially in the water, natural resources and environment sector;
• Experience in working with or engaging with the private sector is an asset;
• Excellent technical leadership and understanding of surface water, catchment planning, ground water, water legislation and regulations;
• Maintaining active networks on IWRM and related topics with donors, government and other stakeholders at national/county level;
• Demonstrated affinity with the social, political, gender aspects of catchment-level IWRM;
• Experience in working for an international organization is an added advantage
• Computer literacy in relation to office applications (word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint) use of internet and online communication tools

Language Requirements;

• Fluency in English and Kiswahili (both written and verbal).

Closing date:  29 June 2023