Principal Specialist: International Biodiversity Policy

Vacancies

• Closing Date: 25 Aug 2026

Policy | External | Circa GBP £59,000 per annum, depending on skills and experience

Are you looking for a role where you can deliver real impact through the implementation of global ambitions on biodiversity policy? We are seeking an internationally-recognised individual with considerable experience working on international biodiversity policy at a senior level. They will be an accomplished leader and manager, with experience of mentoring a team of diverse and highly expert individuals. 
The role: You will be responsible for leading the development and effective implementation of impactful projects that support global ambitions and commitments on biodiversity. The Policy Support team at UNEP-WCMC has a particular focus on the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), marine policy and the sustainable development agenda. You will help to design and secure funding for projects, support teams to deliver them, and build both internal and external capacity for success. 
What you’ll do: Your week will consist of supporting delivery of existing projects, developing a pipeline of future work, building and maintaining relationships with key partners and stakeholders, and seeking funding for new projects. You’ll also support the dedicated team of policy support specialists to build their capacity and ensure quality of deliverables that have a real impact in international biodiversity policy. Through this role you’ll attend major international meetings, working directly with governments and other decision makers. 
Why join us? We offer you the chance to work for the specialist biodiversity Centre of the UN Environment Programme at the heart of some of the most high-profile aspects of international biodiversity policy. You’ll be part of an established team. This position will report to the Head of Policy, will play an important role in the leadership of the Policy Support team and support teams across UNEP-WCMC on policy engagement. You’ll also work closely with Heads of other teams and other Principal Specialists through the UNEP-WCMC Leadership team. 
If you’re looking for a senior role in international biodiversity policy, we want to hear from you.

To view the job pack please click here:  AD1551 Principal Specialist: International Biodiversity Policy

This is not a United Nations Post. This position is with the charity WCMC, working in collaboration with UNEP.

Please note we reserve the right to close this position as soon as a suitable applicant is found, so please do not delay your application.