National Climate Finance Expert

Organizational Setting

Lao PDR faces ongoing challenges in accessing and effectively utilizing climate finance due to outdated strategic frameworks, limited knowledge of innovative financial mechanisms, and insufficient capacity for developing quality funding proposals. The country requires updated climate finance programming that aligns with the GCF Strategic Plan 2024-2027 and national priorities, while exploring new domestic financial mechanisms for sustainable climate action investment.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative, direct supervision of the Assistant FAOR-Programme, technical guidance from the Lead Technical Officer (LTO), and in close coordination with the national project team, the incumbent will perform the following tasks and responsibilities.

Technical Focus

To address these challenges, the National Climate Finance Expert will be stationed within the NDA Office at MAE and play a pivotal role in updating strategic frameworks, developing innovative financial mechanisms, and supporting the preparation of high-quality funding proposals. This position is essential for ensuring Lao PDR's climate finance programming remains current, comprehensive, and effective in mobilizing resources for climate action.

Tasks and responsibilities

•     Undertake desk review and update of national policies, plans and priorities for updating the GCF Country Programme
•     Work with the National Institutional Specialist on the consultation process for Country Programme update
•     Lead the review of the pipeline and support alignment with GCF Strategic Plan 2024-2027
•     Document lessons learned and best practices from PFES pilot implementation
•     Contribute to studies to develop a Funding Proposal with Environment Protection Fund (EPF) as Direct Access Entity
•     Support EPF in developing high-quality concept notes and funding proposals
•     Provide technical input on innovative financial mechanisms for project development
•     Develop Climate Finance Guide Book including GEF, GCF, Adaptation Fund and other climate finance mechanisms
•     Support preparation of technical documents and strategic analyses for climate finance programming
•     Work under guidance of International Climate Finance Expert to ensure quality and alignment with international standards
•     Perform any other related tasks as assigned

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements    

•     University degree in Natural Resources Management, Economics, Climate Change, or related field.
•     Minimum seven (7) years of relevant experience in developing climate investment plans and climate change mitigation and adaptation programs/projects.
•     Working knowledge of English
•     National of Lao.

FAO Core Competencies

•     Results Focus
•     Teamwork
•     Communication
•     Building Effective Relationships
•     Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•     Knowledge of the GCF, preferably with experience in GCF programming
•     Understanding of national policy frameworks and strategic planning processes
•     Knowledge of the GCF, preferably with experience in GCF programming
•     Extent and relevance of experience of the national policy frameworks and strategic planning processes. 
 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION