BIOFIN Project Management Associate(UNDP)

February 16, 2025

8 minutes read

Job Overview

The BIOFIN Project Management Associate role is a full-time, fixed-term position under the United Nations Development (UNDP) within the Bureau for Policy and Support (BPPS). The job falls under the Nature, Climate, and Energy Practice Area, focusing on the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), which aims to integrate finance solutions for biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.

The position requires experience in financial management, budget planning, project administration, and coordination with country teams and global UNDP stakeholders. The selected candidate will support the financial and administrative aspects of BIOFIN projects at both global and national levels, ensuring compliance with UNDP policies and donor requirements.

About UNDP & BPPShttp://BIOFIN Project Management Associate – UNDP

1. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

UNDP is a leading global development agency that works in over 170 countries to promote sustainable development, poverty eradication, and climate action. As part of the UN Development System, UNDP plays a central role in integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national policies, fostering climate resilience, and strengthening governance systems worldwide.

2. Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS)

BPPS is responsible for policy development, strategic guidance, and technical support across UNDP’s core thematic areas. Within BPPS, the Nature, Climate, Energy, and Waste (NCEW) Hubs work on sustainable solutions related to:

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services
Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Sustainable Energy and Circular Economy
Water and Ocean Governance
Chemicals and Waste Management
Sustainable Land Management and Desertification
Green Finance and Environmental Governance

BIOFIN: The Biodiversity Finance Initiative@vacancyspaces.com

BIOFIN is a global initiative aimed at addressing the financial challenges of biodiversity conservation. It provides a comprehensive framework for governments to:

Assess existing biodiversity finance mechanisms
Identify gaps in funding for biodiversity initiatives
Design and implement finance solutions
Enhance policy frameworks to support biodiversity conservation efforts

BIOFIN has been implemented in 41 countries and is supported by multiple international donors, including:

Germany
Canada
Flanders
Norway
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Belgium
European Union

BIOFIN’s Phases

Phase 1 (2012-2019): Focused on assessments, policy recommendations, and initial financial planning.
Phase 2 (2018-2030): Emphasizes the implementation of finance solutions at national levels to meet global biodiversity targets.

For more details, visit: www.biofin.org.

Key Responsibilitieshttp://BIOFIN Project Management Associate – UNDP

The Project Management Associate will play a crucial role in managing financial, administrative, and operational aspects of BIOFIN projects. The responsibilities are divided into four primary areas:

1. Budgeting, Planning, and Resource Management

Coordinate annual multi-year workplans across BIOFIN country projects.
Review financial and budget proposals to ensure compliance with donor requirements.
Support budget revisions and process necessary approvals in UNDP systems.
Facilitate fund transfers and Authorized Spending Limits (ASL).
Monitor budget execution and ensure efficient financial resource allocation.

2. Monitoring and Oversight

Run financial and expenditure reports from Quantum and PowerBI.
Identify implementation delays, budget deficits, or financial risks.
Support country teams in prioritizing expenditures based on funding timelines.
Ensure compliance with donor financial reporting, audits, and UNDP regulations.

3. Capacity Building & Knowledge Sharing

Provide training to BIOFIN country teams on financial processes and project management.
Assist with guidance on budgeting, financial monitoring, and operational compliance.
Support knowledge sharing across UNDP country offices and BIOFIN teams.

4. Project Management & Administrative Support

Ensure database accuracy in systems like Quantum and PowerBI.
Manage financial resources, donor records, and project documentation.
Organize international meetings, workshops, and capacity-building events.
Perform ad-hoc project coordination tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications

Education

Secondary education (high school diploma) is required.
A university degree (Bachelor’s) in:
- Business Administration
- Public Administration
- Finance
- Economics
- Environmental Sciences
- Political/Social Sciences
will be given preference but is not mandatory.

Experience

7 years of experience (with a high school diploma) OR
4 years of experience (with a Bachelor’s degree) in:
- Finance, budgeting, or accounting
- Project administration
- Environmental policy and sustainability projects

Preferred Experience

Previous work in an international organization or with developing countries.
Experience with UNDP policies, financial regulations, and project management.
Proficiency in PowerBI, Quantum, and web-based financial tools.
Strong training, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Language Requirements

Fluency in English and Turkish (mandatory).
Knowledge of another UN language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, or Chinese) is a plus.

Core Competencies

UNDP looks for candidates who demonstrate strong technical, managerial, and interpersonal skills:

1. Core Behavioral Competencies

Achieve Results – Strong problem-solving and deadline management skills.
Think Innovatively – Open to new ideas and pragmatic problem-solving.
Learn Continuously – Adaptable and willing to improve knowledge.
Adapt with Agility – Ability to handle change and uncertainty.
Act with Determination – Demonstrates motivation and resilience.
Engage and Partner – Builds strong professional relationships.
Enable Diversity & Inclusion – Promotes equity and fair treatment.

2. Cross-functional & Technical Competencies

Budget Management – Ability to allocate and manage financial resources.
Results-based Management – Ensuring high-impact project outcomes.
Project Management – Planning, organizing, and coordinating projects.
Resource Management – Strategic allocation of funding and human resources.
Digital Awareness – Proficiency in financial software, data visualization, and digital project tools.
Data Analysis – Ability to extract and interpret financial data for decision-making.

Contract & Job Details

Grade: G7 (General Service Level)
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Duration: 2 years (possibility of extension)
Job Schedule: Full-time
Location: Istanbul, Türkiye
Mobility Requirement: No mobility required
Application Deadline: February 18, 2025, at 06:59 AM

Application & Selection Process

1. Online Application

Submit an application via the UNDP Careers Portal.
Ensure compliance with UNDP’s anti-fraud policies.
No fees or payments required during the hiring process.

2. Screening & Shortlisting

Applicants will be reviewed based on qualifications, experience, and competencies.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for further assessments or interviews.

3. Interview & Final Selection

Candidates will undergo competency-based interviews.
Additional technical tests may be required.
Reference and background checks will be conducted.

Conclusion

The BIOFIN Project Management Associate role is ideal for professionals with experience in finance, project management, and environmental sustainability. Working with UNDP and BIOFIN, the selected candidate will play a vital role in enhancing global biodiversity finance solutions, contributing to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Would you like assistance in preparing your resume, cover letter, or interview responses? Let me know how I can help! 😊

Certainly! I’ll provide an even more detailed explanation of the BIOFIN Project Management Associate role at UNDP in Istanbul, Türkiye by covering all aspects in greater depth. This includes background information on UNDP, BIOFIN, the responsibilities, required skills, expected outcomes, and potential career growth for someone in this role.

BIOFIN Project Management Associate – UNDP Istanbul, Türkiye

1. Introduction to the Role

The BIOFIN Project Management Associate position is a financial and administrative role within UNDP’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), a global program dedicated to identifying and implementing finance solutions for biodiversity conservation.

This position is based at the Istanbul Regional Hub, which serves as a coordination center for UNDP’s operations across multiple countries. The role requires budgeting, financial management, project coordination, and administrative support to ensure the smooth implementation of BIOFIN at global and national levels.

2. Understanding UNDP and BPPS

A. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the largest UN agency focused on global development. It operates in over 170 countries to:

Eradicate poverty
Promote economic growth
Address climate change
Strengthen governance and institutions
Ensure gender equality and social inclusion

UNDP aligns its work with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal blueprint for development, ensuring prosperity and sustainability by 2030.

B. Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS)

The BPPS provides policy expertise, strategic guidance, and technical support to UNDP country offices. It works across various sectors, including:

Nature, Climate, and Energy
Democratic Governance
Sustainable Development and Innovation
Crisis Prevention and Recovery
Gender Equality and Social Inclusion

Within BPPS, the Nature, Climate, and Energy Practice Area leads initiatives like BIOFIN, which integrate biodiversity and ecosystem services into financial decision-making.

3. What is BIOFIN?

The Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) is a global effort to bridge the funding gap for biodiversity conservation. It helps governments assess current biodiversity financing, identify challenges, and design strategies to mobilize additional resources.

A. Why is BIOFIN Important?

Biodiversity is essential for human survival, economic stability, and climate resilience. However, there is a significant funding gap for biodiversity protection. BIOFIN aims to:

Analyze national biodiversity expenditures
Improve financial planning for conservation
Develop innovative finance solutions (e.g., green bonds, carbon pricing, public-private partnerships)
Enhance government policies on environmental finance

B. BIOFIN’s Work Across the Globe

BIOFIN operates in 41 countries, including Turkey, India, Brazil, South Africa, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It receives funding from donors such as:

Germany (BMZ)
Canada
Norway
Switzerland
European Union (EU)
United Kingdom (UK)

Each country uses BIOFIN’s methodology to develop national biodiversity finance plans and implement financing solutions.

4. Key Responsibilities of the Project Management Associate

The BIOFIN Project Management Associate will be responsible for ensuring financial accuracy, operational efficiency, and compliance with UNDP’s global standards. The role is divided into four key areas:

A. Budgeting, Planning, and Financial Coordination

Prepare multi-year financial plans and annual budgets for BIOFIN projects.
Ensure alignment of budgets with donor agreements and UNDP policies.
Manage financial transactions, fund transfers, and budget allocations.
Track expenditures, financial risks, and spending efficiency.
Assist in budget revisions to meet changing project needs.

B. Monitoring and Oversight

Generate and analyze financial reports using Quantum, PowerBI, and other UNDP tools.
Identify funding gaps, under-utilization, and budget constraints.
Support financial audits and donor reporting requirements.
Ensure compliance with UNDP financial policies and donor agreements.

C. Capacity Building and Training

Train BIOFIN country teams on budget planning and financial monitoring.
Provide guidance on UNDP financial systems, procurement, and expenditure tracking.
Support knowledge sharing and best practices across UNDP teams worldwide.

D. Project Administration and Logistics

Ensure efficient document management and financial record-keeping.
Organize international workshops, meetings, and training sessions.
Assist in contract management and procurement processes.

5. Required Qualifications & Skills

A. Education

High school diploma (minimum requirement)
Bachelor’s degree (preferred) in:
- Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Environmental Science, Political Science, or a related field

B. Experience

7 years (with a high school diploma) or 4 years (with a Bachelor’s degree) in:
- Financial management, budgeting, or project administration
- Working in international development or sustainability projects

C. Technical Skills

Experience with financial systems (e.g., Quantum, PowerBI, Excel, SAP, or similar tools)
Strong budgeting and financial reporting skills
Ability to analyze and interpret financial data
Knowledge of donor funding regulations and compliance standards

D. Language Requirements

Fluency in English and Turkish (required)
Knowledge of an additional UN language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, or Chinese) is a plus

6. Competencies Required for Success

A. Core Competencies

Results-Oriented – Delivers high-quality work under tight deadlines.
Analytical Thinking – Uses data to make informed financial decisions.
Innovation & Problem-Solving – Identifies financial inefficiencies and proposes solutions.
Adaptability – Works effectively in changing environments.
Collaboration – Engages with stakeholders, donors, and country teams.

B. Technical & Cross-Functional Skills

Project Management – Ensures timely and efficient project execution.
Budget Management – Plans and monitors financial resources effectively.
Digital Proficiency – Uses data visualization tools to enhance financial reporting.

7. Career Growth & Future Opportunities

Working as a BIOFIN Project Management Associate at UNDP provides opportunities to:

Gain experience in global biodiversity finance and environmental sustainability.
Develop expertise in UN financial management and policy frameworks.
Network with government agencies, donors, and international organizations.
Advance to roles such as Project Finance Officer, Programme Specialist, or Policy Analyst.

8. Application & Selection Process

A. How to Apply

Submit an online application via the UNDP Careers Portal.
Attach a resume (CV) and cover letter highlighting relevant experience.
No fees are required—UNDP does not charge applicants at any stage.

B. Selection Stages

Shortlisting – Based on education, experience, and competencies.
Assessment – May include technical tests or written assignments.
Interviews – Competency-based questions to assess skills and experience.
Final Selection – Background checks and contract offer.

9. Conclusion

The BIOFIN Project Management Associate position is ideal for individuals passionate about finance, sustainability, and biodiversity conservation. It offers an opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental policy and financial planning, contributing to global biodiversity goals while gaining valuable experience in the UN system.

Would you like assistance with preparing a strong resume, crafting a compelling cover letter, or practicing for interviews? Let me know how I can help! 😊

February 16, 2025

8 minutes read