Subject Matter Expert

Roles and responsibilities

We are seeking a subject matterexpert to provide advisory support for the sixteenth session of theConference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Conventionto Combat Desertification (UNCCD). This important event will takeplace in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 2 to 13, 2024. Theexpert will play a crucial role in the project team coordinatingactivities within the Green Zone, which aims to engage diversestakeholders in meaningful discussions about combatingdesertification.

The primary responsibility ofthe expert will involve reviewing content submissions related tothe Green Zone activities. This will require a thoroughunderstanding of topics pertinent to the UNCCD's goals andobjectives, particularly those addressing land degradation,sustainable land management, and the broader implications forclimate change and biodiversity. The expert will evaluate thesuitability of various submissions, ensuring they align with theoverarching themes of COP16 and contribute positively to thedialogue on desertification and landmanagement.

In addition to content evaluation,the expert will allocate sessions to the appropriate forums andsections of the conference program. This task demands not only acomprehensive knowledge of the subject matter but also an abilityto discern the relevance and credibility of differentcontributions. The expert will need to assess eachsubmission’s potential to foster informed discussions andpromote actionable solutions to combat desertification.

Desired candidate profile

The ideal candidate should possessextensive experience in environmental science, land management, orrelated fields. They should be well-versed in internationalframeworks related to desertification, as well as current trendsand challenges in sustainable land use. A strong understanding ofthe socio-economic impacts of land degradation and the intersectionwith climate policy will be essential for thisrole.

The contract for this position will beginimmediately and extend until December 13, 2024. During this period,the expert will engage closely with the project team and variousstakeholders, contributing to the successful execution ofCOP16's activities. The work will involve bothcollaborative and independent tasks, requiring a proactive approachto ensure that the Green Zone effectively fulfills its mission toraise awareness and drive action againstdesertification.

In summary, we are looking for aknowledgeable and experienced subject matter expert who can providestrategic guidance on content for COP16’s Green Zone. Therole is pivotal in shaping discussions that address critical issuessurrounding desertification and land management, making it anexciting opportunity for someone passionate about environmentalsustainability and global cooperation.