Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist (UNDP – Paramaribo, Suriname)

February 18, 2025

10 minutes read

This position is a full-time National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10) role under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Suriname. The job is part of UNDP’s Nature, Climate, and Energy practice area and focuses on sustainable finance to support biodiversity and environmental initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:http://UNDP Job Posting

Project Management & Leadership
- Lead and oversee the implementation of the National Biodiversity Finance Plan under the GEF8 Umbrella Programme.
- Manage a national team of experts, including a Policy Expert, Biodiversity Finance Specialist, and Project Support Associate.
- Ensure the project stays on track with timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
- Organize workshops, technical studies, and stakeholder meetings to advance the project.
- Coordinate with government agencies, donors, private sector partners, and UNDP headquarters.
Technical Expertise & Finance Strategy
- Conduct policy and institutional reviews, biodiversity expenditure reviews, and financial needs assessments.
- Develop strategies to scale up biodiversity funding and eliminate harmful subsidies.
- Create financing solutions aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
- Provide high-level technical advice on environmental finance and resource mobilization.
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
- Build partnerships with government institutions, donors, civil society, and academia.
- Prepare reports, policy briefs, press releases, and presentations for stakeholders.
- Facilitate discussions with ministries (Finance, Environment, etc.) and establish a National Steering Committee.
Monitoring, Reporting & Knowledge Sharing
- Track project progress and provide regular reports to UNDP and global teams.
- Ensure alignment with international methodologies such as the BIOFIN Workbook.
- Organize training and knowledge-sharing sessions for local stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:

Education:
- Master’s Degree (with 5 years of experience) OR Bachelor’s Degree (with 7 years of experience) in Environment, Finance, Economics, Political Studies, or related fields.
Experience:
- 5+ years (with Master’s) or 7+ years (with Bachelor’s) in development, finance, or environmental projects.
- Expertise in biodiversity, sustainable finance, climate change, or policy development.
- Experience working with government agencies, donors, and financial institutions.
- Strong skills in research, reporting, and stakeholder communication.
Language:
- Fluency in Dutch is required.
- English proficiency is preferred.

Key Competencies Required:

Project Management – Ability to organize, prioritize, and oversee resources efficiently.
Strategic Thinking – Understanding financial systems, subsidies, and policy frameworks.
Partnership Building – Engaging with diverse stakeholders, from government to private sector.
Finance & Budgeting – Identifying funding opportunities and managing project finances.
Knowledge Sharing – Documenting best practices and providing training to partners.

Why This Job is Important?

Suriname is rich in biodiversity, and sustainable financing is crucial for conservation efforts. This role supports financial planning and policy reform to help Suriname meet its global commitments under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By leading this initiative, the Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist plays a vital role in mobilizing resources for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist (UNDP – Paramaribo, Suriname)

Position Overview

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is recruiting a Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist for its Nature, Climate, and Energy practice area. This full-time role is classified as National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10) and focuses on the development and implementation of sustainable finance strategies to support biodiversity and environmental conservation in Suriname.

The selected candidate will play a strategic leadership role in implementing the National Biodiversity Finance Plan under the Global Environment Facility (GEF-8) Umbrella Programme. They will coordinate the work of technical experts, liaise with government agencies, and engage in policy development to secure financing for biodiversity initiatives.

This position is ideal for professionals passionate about environmental sustainability, finance, and policy-making and who have experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects.

1. Job Responsibilities and Scope of Work@vacancyspaces.com

The Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the National Biodiversity Finance Plan in Suriname. The work is divided into four major categories:

1.1 Project Management & Leadership

Lead the implementation, coordination, and execution of the project, ensuring all activities are delivered on time and within budget.
Supervise a team of national experts, including a Policy Expert, Biodiversity Finance Specialist, and Project Support Associate.
Develop a comprehensive work plan with measurable milestones and objectives to track progress effectively.
Ensure that the project aligns with UNDP’s sustainable development priorities and global biodiversity finance frameworks.
Prepare progress reports, financial statements, and evaluations to be submitted to UNDP and key stakeholders.
Organize technical workshops, stakeholder consultations, and capacity-building events to support the project’s goals.

1.2 Technical Expertise & Finance Strategy

Conduct biodiversity finance assessments, including a review of current financial flows, subsidies, and expenditure for conservation in Suriname.
Identify opportunities for new revenue streams, such as biodiversity credits, conservation funds, and public-private partnerships.
Develop financing solutions that align with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Provide technical support in policy formulation, helping government institutions design incentives for biodiversity-friendly investment.
Work closely with the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank of Suriname, and international donors to strengthen biodiversity financing mechanisms.

1.3 Stakeholder Engagement & Institutional Strengthening

Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with government institutions, financial bodies, NGOs, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
Establish a National Steering Committee to oversee project implementation, ensuring multi-sectoral collaboration.
Organize high-level meetings, policy dialogues, and knowledge-sharing events to engage stakeholders in biodiversity financing discussions.
Work with international organizations to mobilize resources and strengthen technical cooperation between Suriname and global biodiversity finance initiatives.

1.4 Monitoring, Reporting & Knowledge Sharing

Design and implement a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework to track project impacts and ensure accountability.
Provide regular updates to UNDP headquarters, national authorities, and global development partners on project progress.
Collect and analyze data on biodiversity finance to support policy recommendations.
Document best practices and case studies, contributing to global knowledge-sharing platforms on sustainable finance.

2. Required Qualifications & Competencies

The successful candidate must possess a combination of academic qualifications, professional experience, and key skills in finance, environmental management, and project leadership.

2.1 Education Requirements

Candidates must hold one of the following degrees:

Master’s Degree in Finance, Economics, Environmental Policy, Public Administration, Sustainable Development, or related fields (with at least 5 years of experience).
Bachelor’s Degree in the same fields (with at least 7 years of experience).

A background in biodiversity finance, climate finance, or impact investing is highly desirable.

2.2 Work Experience

5+ years (with a Master’s) or 7+ years (with a Bachelor’s) of experience in project management, financial planning, public policy, or environmental finance.
Experience working with government agencies, financial institutions, international organizations, or the private sector.
Proven expertise in developing financial instruments for conservation, climate adaptation, or sustainability programs.
Familiarity with GEF, UNDP, World Bank, and other donor-funded environmental initiatives.
Experience in conducting policy reviews, institutional analysis, and financial feasibility studies.

2.3 Language Proficiency

Fluency in Dutch (Required).
Proficiency in English (Preferred).
Additional knowledge of Sranan Tongo or other local languages is a plus.

2.4 Key Skills & Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

Project Management Skills – Ability to plan, execute, and oversee large-scale development projects.
Financial Analysis & Budgeting – Knowledge of investment planning, revenue generation, and biodiversity finance mechanisms.
Strategic Thinking – Ability to design innovative financial solutions and long-term sustainability plans.
Policy Development & Advisory – Experience in working with national governments on policy reform and economic incentives for sustainability.
Stakeholder Engagement – Strong negotiation and communication skills to manage relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Research & Data Analysis – Ability to conduct financial modeling, expenditure reviews, and impact assessments.
Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) – Familiarity with impact tracking frameworks used by the UN and international donors.

3. Challenges & Opportunities in This Role

This position presents both challenges and opportunities, making it an exciting and rewarding role for professionals in the sustainable finance space.

3.1 Challenges

Limited Financial Resources: Suriname faces constraints in biodiversity financing, requiring innovative financial solutions.
Policy & Regulatory Barriers: Existing policies may not fully support biodiversity investments, requiring legislative reforms.
Multi-Stakeholder Coordination: Engaging different agencies, donors, and the private sector can be complex and time-consuming.
Data & Research Gaps: Availability of reliable biodiversity and finance-related data is sometimes limited, posing challenges for analysis.

3.2 Opportunities

Global Leadership in Biodiversity Finance: Suriname can become a regional leader in sustainable finance by implementing innovative mechanisms.
Access to International Funds: The project can leverage global funds from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), Global Environment Facility (GEF), and World Bank.
Policy Impact: The project offers a unique opportunity to shape national policies on biodiversity finance and sustainability.
Capacity Building: Strengthening financial and environmental institutions in Suriname to drive long-term economic benefits.

4. Why Apply for This Position?

This job offers a unique blend of finance, policy-making, and environmental sustainability. The selected candidate will:

Work with UNDP, one of the world’s leading development organizations.
Contribute to a critical national agenda for biodiversity conservation.
Build high-level partnerships with government agencies, financial institutions, and global donors.
Gain international experience in sustainable finance and policy advisory.
Be part of an innovative initiative that can shape Suriname’s future financial landscape for environmental sustainability.

Final Thoughts

This Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist position is an excellent opportunity for professionals who want to make a real impact in biodiversity conservation, finance, and sustainable development. The role requires a high level of expertise in finance, economics, environmental policy, and project management, along with the ability to engage stakeholders and drive institutional change.

Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist (UNDP – Suriname)

A Deep Dive into the Role and Its Significance

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is hiring a Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist to lead the implementation of the National Biodiversity Finance Plan (BIOFIN) in Suriname. This role is crucial for ensuring that the country secures adequate financing for biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience.

Suriname, known for its vast and rich biodiversity, faces critical financial and policy challenges in protecting its natural resources. The lack of sustainable financing mechanisms and limited government resources hinder efforts to preserve its forests, wildlife, and ecosystems. As such, the Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist will be responsible for designing financial strategies, engaging stakeholders, implementing policy reforms, and securing long-term investment for biodiversity conservation.

This role is at the intersection of finance, public policy, and environmental management, making it an exciting opportunity for professionals passionate about sustainable development, economic policy, and nature conservation.

1. The Bigger Picture: Why This Role Matters

1.1 Suriname’s Biodiversity & Environmental Finance Challenges

Suriname is one of the world’s most forest-rich countries, with over 93% of its land covered by tropical forests. It is home to a diverse range of species, including jaguars, giant river otters, and rare bird species. However, the country faces several challenges, including:

Deforestation due to mining, agriculture, and logging.
Limited financial resources for conservation initiatives.
Inadequate private sector engagement in biodiversity finance.
Gaps in policy implementation and enforcement.
Weak institutional capacity to mobilize and manage biodiversity funding.

The Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist will develop solutions to address these challenges by creating financial instruments, engaging the private sector, and influencing policy decisions to generate funding for conservation.

1.2 The Global Context of Biodiversity Finance

Biodiversity finance is a growing global concern. International agreements like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (2022) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize the need for sustainable financial flows to protect ecosystems. The UNDP’s BIOFIN (Biodiversity Finance Initiative) helps countries identify financial gaps and create strategies to secure resources for biodiversity conservation.

This position in Suriname aligns with these global goals by ensuring that the country adopts financial mechanisms to protect its biodiversity while promoting economic growth.

2. Detailed Job Responsibilities

This role involves four key components:

2.1 Project Leadership & Implementation

Oversee the execution of the National Biodiversity Finance Plan (BIOFIN) in Suriname.
Ensure the project is aligned with national development priorities, UNDP’s strategic goals, and global environmental frameworks.
Develop a multi-year financial plan for biodiversity conservation.
Coordinate with national government institutions, development partners, and financial agencies.
Lead the project team, including policy analysts, finance specialists, and support staff.
Ensure project activities are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.
Organize technical workshops, stakeholder consultations, and knowledge-sharing forums.

2.2 Sustainable Finance & Policy Development

Conduct an assessment of Suriname’s existing financial mechanisms for biodiversity.
Identify new revenue streams such as:
- Biodiversity credits
- Payment for ecosystem services (PES)
- Green bonds and conservation funds
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Work with government agencies to create incentives for biodiversity-friendly investments.
Provide technical support to policymakers in designing fiscal policies that encourage biodiversity conservation.
Align Suriname’s finance strategies with international biodiversity commitments.

2.3 Stakeholder Engagement & Institutional Strengthening

Build strong partnerships with government ministries, including:
- Ministry of Finance
- Ministry of Spatial Planning and Environment
- Central Bank of Suriname
Engage with private sector players, including banks, investors, and businesses.
Organize multi-stakeholder platforms for dialogue, investment discussions, and financial planning.
Support capacity-building programs for government officials, financial managers, and conservation organizations.

2.4 Monitoring, Reporting & Knowledge Sharing

Develop a Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework to track the success of biodiversity financing efforts.
Provide regular reports to UNDP headquarters, national stakeholders, and international donors.
Contribute to knowledge-sharing initiatives to help Suriname become a regional leader in biodiversity finance.
Document best practices and scale up successful financial models for conservation.

3. Qualifications and Skills Required

To be successful in this role, candidates must have a strong combination of technical expertise, policy knowledge, and leadership experience.

3.1 Education

Master’s degree in Finance, Economics, Public Administration, Environmental Policy, Sustainable Development, or related fields (minimum 5 years of experience required).
Bachelor’s degree in similar fields (minimum 7 years of experience required).

A specialization in biodiversity finance, green investments, or impact investing is highly desirable.

3.2 Work Experience

At least 5-7 years of experience in financial planning, project management, environmental policy, or sustainable finance.
Experience working with government institutions, financial organizations, or international development agencies.
Background in developing financial instruments for conservation or sustainability projects.
Familiarity with GEF, UNDP, World Bank, and donor-funded environmental programs.

3.3 Key Skills

Financial Analysis & Budgeting – Strong expertise in investment planning, revenue generation, and economic policy.
Strategic Thinking – Ability to develop long-term financial solutions for biodiversity projects.
Stakeholder Engagement – Experience in building partnerships with government agencies, financial institutions, and the private sector.
Policy Development – Understanding of tax policies, incentives, and regulatory frameworks related to conservation finance.
Project Leadership – Proven track record of managing complex multi-sectoral projects.

3.4 Language Proficiency

Fluency in Dutch (required).
Proficiency in English (preferred).
Knowledge of Sranan Tongo or other local languages is a plus.

4. Career Growth & Future Opportunities

This role provides excellent career development opportunities, including:

Becoming a policy advisor for national or international organizations.
Leading large-scale sustainable finance projects in the Caribbean and Latin America.
Moving into senior roles at UNDP, World Bank, or global financial institutions.
Transitioning into roles in impact investing, green finance, or conservation banking.

5. Final Thoughts: Why This Role is Important

The Project Manager and Sustainable Finance Specialist role is critical for Suriname’s environmental and economic future. By successfully implementing the National Biodiversity Finance Plan, this position will help:

Secure long-term funding for nature conservation.
Integrate biodiversity finance into national policies and budgets.
Engage the private sector in green investments.
Strengthen Suriname’s position as a leader in sustainable finance.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for professionals who want to shape the future of biodiversity finance and make a lasting impact on environmental sustainability in Suriname.

Would you like assistance with your application, resume, or cover letter? 😊

February 18, 2025

10 minutes read