Deputy Secretary (Senior Programme Management Officer)

About the role

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a Deputy Secretary to serve as a Senior Programme Management Officer within the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on plastic pollution. Based in Nairobi, the incumbent will support the Executive Secretary in shaping strategic priorities, overseeing programme implementation and representing UNEP at high-level meetings.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in framing the strategic priorities and work programme of the INC Secretariat.
• Coordinate implementation of the Secretariat’s programme of work and ensure timely delivery of outputs.
• Represent the Executive Secretary at international, regional and national meetings, providing substantive expertise.
• Prepare work plans, allocate resources, and oversee day-to-day management of activities.
• Manage programme and administrative tasks including budget preparation, performance reporting, and results-based budgeting inputs.
• Support staff recruitment, ensuring gender and geographical balance, and evaluate staff performance.
• Guide, develop and train supervised staff, fostering a results-oriented culture.
• Lead data collection and analysis to inform planning, decision-making and reporting.

Required profile

• Proven experience in senior programme management within an international or multilateral environment.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex work plans, manage budgets and allocate resources effectively.
• Experience representing senior officials at high-level meetings and providing policy expertise.
• Strong leadership skills with experience in staff recruitment, performance evaluation and capacity building.
• Ability to analyse data, identify trends and translate findings into actionable recommendations.

Required skills