The consultant will support tasks implemented by the SP associated with the Global Youth MIDORI platform (GYM), a newly launched youth empowerment project (https://ias.unu.edu/jp/research/global-youth-midori-platform-gym.html#outline). The consultant will undertake various tasks to support and facilitate the participation of UNU delegation, including youth, at the Sixteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD-COP16) in Cali, Colombia. Responsibilities will include ensuring smooth logistics, effective networking, and active engagement for all participants.
Under the general supervision of the UNU-IAS Director and the direct supervision of Programme Manager of the Strategic Programme, the contractor shall:

1.  Support logistical arrangements for the GYM team’s participation to the CBD-COP16 (1 Sep-20 Oct 2024, remotely)
•　Gather general information of the host country and the city (Colombia and Cali), including overview, safety information, currency, health, local laws, local emergency contact addresses and develop a note to support for planning of the GYM team’s travel plan and activities during the CBD-COP16.
•　Gather logistical information specific to the CBD-COP16 and develop a note including the venue information, visa requirements, accommodation, and transportation information between the venue and accommodation to ensure smooth participation and operation of the planned activities by the GYM team.
•　Provide an overall travel advisory to the team, including information on transit schedules, airport details, and local transportation options.
•　Handle communication with local vendors including hotels, CBD-COP16 conference management companies, printing companies, and the conference secretariat as needed for the GYM team’s preparation for the activities during the CBD-COP16.

2.  Provide on-site support to the GYM team during the CBD-COP16 (expected from 21 Oct-1 Nov 2024, Cali, Colombia)
•　Provide operational support for the planned events organized by the GYM team, including stage and equipment setup, time keep, mic-run, and note taking.
•　Provide operational support for the GYM’s panel booth at the CBD-COP16 venue by being present and handle inquiries and manage promotional materials.
•　Provide translation and interpretation between English and Spanish, including local transportation arrangements between accommodation and venue, and communication with local event operation staff for event preparation organized by the GYM team.
•　Address any logistical issues that arise during the conference under the supervision of the Programme Manager.
•　Actively communicate and network with other youth and youth organizations to create networking and exchange opportunities with the youth from the GYM team.

3.  Assist in coordination the overall operational coordination for the delegation (1 Sep-20 Oct 2024 and 2-15 Nov, remotely)
•　Participate in the GYM team meetings for the relevant activities and provide necessary logistical information.
•　Participate in review meetings, post-COP discussion, provide assessment and recommendations for the future engagement. 

4.  Perform other duties requested by the Head of Programme and Administration

Required skills and experience

•　At least one year of working experience in government, academic or research institutions, consulting firms, and NGOs related to sustainability or environment, some of which preferably in an international and multi-cultural environment
•　Experience in providing on-site support for tours or similar events, ensuring smooth logistical arrangements is desirable
•　Experience in research in the field of biodiversity and sustainability science is asset
•　Knowledge with international conferences and biodiversity policies is asset
•　Knowledge with the host city and the country (Cali, Colombia) and ability to provide relevant local information is required
•　Good team player with strong interpersonal skills with sensitivity and respect for diversity
•　ICT literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office
•　Experience in working for a UN organization is asset

Duration of contract: 2 months (from the contract start date to – 15 November 2024)

The payment conditions are divided into two categories based on the support provided:

1. Off-site support (during preparation and post-event) period (expected from 1 Sep-19 Oct 2024 and 2-15 Nov): USD 175 per day.

2. On-site support during the period of CBD-COP16 (expected from 21 Oct-1 Nov 2024): USD 175 per day.

Total contract Amount:  'maximum' to USD 5,250 (maximum) 

To apply:

• Apply via the apply link; https://careers.unu.edu/o/ias-ctc-geoc-gym
• fill out the UNU P11 form (please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organizations)
• provide a motivation statement (in the P11 form); and
• answer a few questions that are tailored to the position.
• Application Deadline: 23 August 2024 (UCT)

Special notice

UNU does not sponsor a working visa for this position.

Consultants do not hold international civil servant status, nor are they considered a “staff member” as defined in the United Nations Staff Rules and Regulations.

UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply. Applications from developing countries, and from women are strongly encouraged.

UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.

If you have supervisory function you need to have awareness on gender related issues.