The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is inviting applications for the position of Director (D-1) within the Mitigation Division. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for the Division’s work supporting mitigation under the Convention and the Paris Agreement.
Duty Station: Bonn, Germany
Contract Duration: One (1) year, with the possibility of extension.
Expected Start Date: As soon as possible.
Job Purpose:
The Director will lead the Mitigation Division in supporting Parties to the UNFCCC through technical, analytical, and operational leadership on climate change mitigation. The role oversees work related to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS), Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, response measures, sectoral mitigation pathways, and international cooperation while ensuring the integrity of the intergovernmental process.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Planning and Policy Advice
- Lead the Division’s technical and analytical support for mitigation under the Convention and the Paris Agreement.
- Provide strategic leadership for implementing mitigation-related mandates and decisions.
- Lead analysis and knowledge sharing on mitigation and Article 6 cooperative approaches.
- Guide the operational development of Article 6 mechanisms.
- Advise the Executive Secretary and Senior Director on strategic and political developments.
- Contribute to overall UNFCCC policy and management.
Representation, Partnerships and Resource Mobilization
- Oversee operational support to constituted bodies and expert groups.
- Build strategic partnerships with UN agencies, international organizations, development banks, private sector partners, and other stakeholders.
- Represent the UNFCCC Secretariat during negotiations and consultations.
- Provide technical expertise during climate negotiations.
- Support communications and public engagement on mitigation.
- Contribute to resource mobilization and partnership development.
Management
- Manage activities supporting constituted bodies under the Convention and Paris Agreement.
- Develop and oversee results-based work programmes and performance indicators.
- Manage the Division’s financial and human resources.
- Lead recruitment while promoting geographical and gender balance.
- Foster staff development, coaching, continuous learning, and innovation.
- Strengthen analytical and digital capabilities across the Division.
Leadership
- Direct the Division’s support to the Conference of the Parties (COP), Subsidiary Bodies (SBs), CMP, CMA, and related meetings.
- Ensure the Division remains responsive to evolving mandates and Party needs.
- Identify strategic risks and implement mitigation measures.
- Inspire and lead a high-performing, diverse workforce.
- Guide teams through organizational change while promoting staff wellbeing.
Required Qualifications:
- Advanced university degree in Economics, Development Studies, Natural or Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Political Science, Law, or a closely related field.
- A Bachelor’s degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
Experience:
- At least 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience in climate change policy and mitigation.
- Extensive experience supporting multilateral processes.
- Proven leadership of large multidisciplinary teams and complex international programmes.
- Experience in policy implementation, partnerships, or climate mitigation programmes is essential.
Language Requirements:
- Fluency in written and spoken English.
- Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
- Strong understanding of global climate change and sustainable development.
- In-depth knowledge of the UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol, and Paris Agreement.
- Experience working with governments, international organizations, or the private sector.
- Strategic leadership and organizational management.
- Partnership development and stakeholder engagement.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
Remuneration:
- Indicative net annual salary: US$117,953
- Plus a variable post adjustment (currently 35.4% of net salary).
- Additional United Nations benefits apply.
How to Apply:
Apply online through the UNFCCC recruitment portal:
http://unfccc.int/secretariat/employment/recruitment
Applicants are required to submit a motivation letter as part of their online application.
Application Deadline:
30 August 2026 at 23:59 hrs CET
Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted. UNFCCC is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all nationalities, including persons with disabilities.