Climate change poses a threat to all life on Earth. Its impacts are being felt earlier and with greater intensity than ever before in recorded history. A recent WMO study predicts a 70% likelihood of the planet reaching 1.5°C of global warming above pre-industrial levels in the next few years. A ‘circularity’ focused transformative partnership is being catalysed through an international collaborative effort in the form of a “Global Alliance for a Sustainable Planet” (hereinafter, Global Alliance), which focuses on identifying champions; incubating ideas with system-scale potential; leveraging private finance for the public good; and garnering lessons learned and replicating success on a planetary scale. This, in turn, will aid and abet the achievement of climate goals and all seventeen Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Objective of the position
The Global Alliance is seeking a Consultant to serve as a Nature-Based Solutions Officer to support its ongoing initiatives on developing a path-breaking World Climate and Nature Guarantee Finance Facility (WCNGF), a large-scale development finance mechanism for countries globally. The facility will support the natural climate solutions and reforms of the global food systems, both offering major climate mitigation and adaptation opportunities.
The Consultant will report directly to the Director – Programme Coordination and will play a crucial role in advancing the Global Alliance’s mission by engaging with key stakeholders and ensuring deliverables. The Consultant will also work with the management team to support a range of GASP partners and ensure the successful development of landscape-scale NbS and Food Systems projects.
Deliverables and Output
- Identify scalable Nature-based solutions (NbS) and Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) initiatives globally and support the development of these initiatives and fundraising efforts to help WCNGF prepare the project pipeline;
- Support the management team to conceptualize and draft bilateral and multilateral funding and grant proposals with a focus on NbS and SFS;
- Support the coordination and decision-making on initiatives related to regenerative agriculture, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, nature-based solutions, circular economy, food loss and waste, reducing emissions from deforestation, etc;
- Ensure smooth programme management and implementation, including preparation of work plans, technical and financial reports, and partnership agreements;
- Actively pursue opportunities for project identification and formulation with GASP Members, donors and partners and assist in the development of the NbS and SFS Programme Area;
- Maintain good working relationships with GASP partners, as well as expand and grow relationships with new stakeholders and potential partners as required.
- Support the GASP fellows in developing pertinent research methodologies for producing high-quality white papers on topics related to NbS and SFS;
- Support the communications team in preparing and disseminating communication materials such as web stories, presentations,and brochures that help raise the understanding of Nature-based solutions and Sustainable Food Systems solutions globally;
- Providing support and coordination for the Global Alliance’s strategic events and special initiatives, including but not limited to events like CoP29 and NYC Climate Week.
Work Experience and Skills
- Master’s/Bachelor’s in a subject related to food systems, agriculture, climate, climate finance, blended finance, and environment;
- Experience in managing international projects and reporting to donors is a plus;
- Deep understanding of NbS and SFS systems and its relationship with the climate commitments;
- Excellent communication skills – especially the ability to write coherent reports, emails, opinion pieces, and concept notes;
- Excellent organizational and networking skills, team-oriented attitude and ability to work independently;
- An interest and ability to guide the junior and senior research fellows in developing research papers on related topics;
- Excellent organizational and networking skills, team-oriented attitude and ability to work independently.
Compensation
Competitive compensation commensurate with experience and industry standards, and to be discussed during the interviews.
Contract period
The position is full-time on a 24-month fixed-term contract. The role is expected to continue, subject to performance and funding.
Part-time work options are available and can be discussed during the interview.
Location
The GASP office is based in New York. However, the position allows remote work/work from home to accommodate diverse work styles and different timings while ensuring the successful execution of work.
Application
Applicants are requested to apply by sending their CV and cover letter with ‘Application: Nature-based Solutions” as the subject line and share them at niti.gupta@gaspworld.org.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We appreciate your interest.