The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The overall objective of the UNEP's Industry and Economy Division is to encourage decision makers in government, local authorities and industry to develop and adopt policies, strategies and practices and technologies that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production, make efficient use of natural resources, ensure safe management of chemicals and contribute to making trade and environment policies mutually supportive. It promotes the development, use and transfer of policies, technologies, economic instruments, managerial practices and other tools that assist in environmentally sound decision making and the building of corresponding activities. The position is located in the Industry and Economy Division, Chemicals and Health Branch, Chemicals Science and Policy Unit (CS&PU), at the Nairobi duty station. The Chemicals and Health Branch works closely with governments, industry, and civil society organizations around the world to develop mainstream solutions for the sound management of chemicals and waste.

Under the direct supervision of the Chief of the Chemicals and Health Branch, the incumbent will be responsible for the following:

Responsibilities

The incumbent will be responsible for the following:

• Leading the development and implementation of scientific and policy initiatives related to chemicals management.
• Providing scientific and technical advice to governments and international bodies on chemicals and waste.
• Managing and coordinating projects and programmes within the Chemicals Science and Policy Unit.
• Fostering collaboration and partnerships with stakeholders, including governments, industry, academia, and civil society.
• Contributing to the development of UNEP's strategies and policies on chemicals and waste.
• Representing UNEP in relevant international forums and meetings.
• Supervising and mentoring staff within the Unit.

Competencies

The incumbent should possess strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of chemicals management and international environmental policy.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in chemistry, environmental science, public policy, or a related field. A first-level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and extensive experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in chemicals management, environmental policy, or a related area, with at least 5 years at the international level. Experience in programme management and leading scientific teams is required.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of other United Nations official languages is an asset.

• Leading the development and implementation of scientific and policy initiatives related to chemicals management.
• Providing scientific and technical advice to governments and international bodies on chemicals and waste.
• Managing and coordinating projects and programmes within the Chemicals Science and Policy Unit.
• Fostering collaboration and partnerships with stakeholders, including governments, industry, academia, and civil society.
• Contributing to the development of UNEP's strategies and policies on chemicals and waste.
• Representing UNEP in relevant international forums and meetings.
• Supervising and mentoring staff within the Unit.

• Leadership
• Analytical skills
• Communication skills
• Chemicals management
• International environmental policy
• Programme management
• Leading scientific teams

• Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in chemistry, environmental science, public policy, or a related field.
• A first-level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and extensive experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
• Fluency in English is required.
• Knowledge of other United Nations official languages is an asset.