Result of Service
The consultant will deliver the following outputs: A Functional Review report, including an executive summary, introduction, description of the strategic and functional review methodology, analysis, key findings, conclusions and recommendations. The report will consist of: a) A diagnostic report outlining the current structure, key challenges, risks, and areas of misalignment. b) A set of prioritized and actionable recommendations, including options for structural adjustments, staffing optimization, and efficiency measures. c) An implementation roadmap outlining proposed actions, timelines, sequencing, dependencies and responsibilities to support phased and manageable implementation. The consultant will update the Deputy Executive Secretary on a regular basis on interim findings and progress. All materials should be prepared in consultation with the Secretariat and submitted electronically in editable format (Word/Excel).
Duties and Responsibilities
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The Secretariat of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS Secretariat) brings together the three leading multilateral environmental agreements that share the common objective of protecting human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes. This consultancy is undertaken under the BRS Secretariat Programme of Work for 2026–2027, specifically Activity 37 as it relates to staffing. The Secretariat is undertaking a functional review to ensure that its structure, functions, and resource allocation are fit for purpose, financially sustainable, and aligned with its core mandates and strategic priorities. The functional review aims to provide a comprehensive and evidence-based assessment of the Secretariat's organizational structure, functions, staffing, systems and resource allocation. It will identify practical and implementable measures to enhance efficiency and financial sustainability, while safeguarding the Secretariat's capacity to effectively deliver COP mandates and serving equally balanced to all 3 conventions. Under the general guidance of the Deputy Executive Secretary of the BRS Secretariat, the consultant will examine the Secretariat’s structure, functions, staffing, systems, and financial resources in an integrated manner. More specifically, the consultant will carry out the following tasks: 1) Assess the current organizational structure across branches and units, including the distribution of functions, and determine whether reporting lines, classified job descriptions, and post levels are fit for purpose, while also undertaking a comprehensive staffing analysis covering the number, type, and grade of posts, their funding sources, and their alignment with functional needs. Particular attention will be given to posts funded through voluntary funds and programme support costs (PSC), including the sustainability of such arrangements. The review will further examine the overall sustainability of current staffing structures, especially where core functions rely on extra-budgetary funding, and will identify options for improving alignment between funding sources and organizational functions. 2) Analyze the alignment between functions and the approved programme of work, assessing whether current activities reflect core mandates, priorities, and a balanced approach across all three conventions, while identifying opportunities for streamlining, consolidation, reprioritization, or automation in light of resource constraints. The review will further focus on ensuring coherence between mandates, functions, structure, systems, and resources, and will assess the extent to which current arrangements are driven by strategic priorities rather than historical, long-standing practices. 3) Assess key business processes, including programme implementation, governance, administrative support, provision of IT services, knowledge management, and conference servicing, with a view to identifying opportunities for streamlining, including through digital solutions. Financial sustainability will be a central consideration throughout the review, including analysis of key cost drivers and potential efficiency gains. The review will also identify opportunities to enhance internal coordination, further streamline processes, leverage digital tools, and strengthen knowledge management. 4) Examine the potential implications (risks as well as benefits) of new or evolving UN and UNEP administrative arrangements (such as common administrative platforms or administrative hubs). The review will be conducted by a consultant through a combination of desk analysis, consultations, and comparative assessment. It will include a review of organizational documents, staffing tables, programme and financial data, as well as targeted consultations with senior management and staff across branches in the BRS Secretariat and with UNEP Corporate Services Division. The Deputy Executive Secretary will support the review by facilitating access to information, ensuring coordination, and contributing to validation of findings.
Qualifications/special skills
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in the field of political sciences, business administration, international relations or similar field is required. A first level university degree in combination with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic management within an international organization, including 5 years at a senior level, focusing on coordination of programmatic, legal, political and/or administrative functions is required. Experience working with UNEP Multilateral Environment Agreements, preferably in an MEA Secretariat, as well as leading change management initiatives is required. Experience with the UN Secretariat administrative, financial and human resources regulations, rules and administrative issuances is required. Experience in conducting functional review(s) within an international organization is required. Experience in working with and leading multidisciplinary teams is desirable.
