The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the world’s largest and most diverse environmental network, bringing together more than 1,400 member organizations, including states, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, as well as 17,000 voluntary experts in its Commissions.
The IUCN Regional Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia (ECARO) is responsible for promoting and implementing IUCN’s Programme in Eastern Europe, North and Central Asia. With a long-term goal of conserving biodiversity and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, IUCN has developed a strong partnership network and an expanding project portfolio in Central Asia.
The IUCN Representative Office in the Republic of Uzbekistan coordinates activities across the five Central Asian countries, develops and implements a portfolio of projects aligned with regional priorities and strengthens the engagement with IUCN Members and partners in Central Asia.
The Central Asia Project Officer will coordinate and manage implementation of the project "Integrated Conservation Management and Restoration of High-Level Landscapes in Uzbekistan" (GEF8 EcoLand Uzbekistan) with end date 31.05.2029, which is funded by UNDP and implemented by IUCN ECARO, as well as support the development of new initiatives in Central Asia.
Under direct supervision of Central Asia Regional Coordinator/Head of Representative Office in Uzbekistan and working in close cooperation with the ECARO Nature-based Solutions and Conservation Action team, the Central Asia Project Officer will actively represent IUCN’s work in the region, promote and apply IUCN knowledge and tools and maintain strong relationships with IUCN members, experts and donors.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Project implementation
• Coordinate and manage projects under the Central Asia Programme, with a particular focus on the project ““Integrated Conservation Management and Restoration of High-Value Landscapes in Uzbekistan” (GEF8 EcoLand Uzbekistan).
• Ensure high-quality project planning and implementation, including preparation of work plans, technical and financial reports, partnership agreements and service contracts for provision of goods and services;
• Ensure that all project-related entries on the IUCN Project Portal are accurate and up-to-date;
• Undertake logistical and administrative tasks related to project implementation, including the organisation of capacity building events, technical workshops, meetings, preparation and dissemination of meeting material (i.e. minutes), liaison with other IUCN team members and project partners, contracting with service providers, procurements, assessments of budget needs and resources and liaison with financial team;
• Oversee the work of external experts, consultants, project partners and implementation of project activities, including field activities;
• Contribute with expert input to the project work related to nature conservation, coordinating thematic work packages and activities, leading thematic discussions with project experts, developing thematic reports and materials;
• Communication with project stakeholders: political partners, other government bodies, international organisations, CSOs, research and educational institutions, local communities.
• Monitor and evaluate project implementation following project indicators, ensuring compliance with IUCN indicators;
• Assess the risks and develop risks mitigation action plans;
• Complete the relevant project portal entries on indicators.

Fundraising and project development
• Support the identification and assessment of new funding opportunities in the region;
• Contribute to the development of high-quality project proposals in line with IUCN’s strategic priorities;
• Identify potential partners and support the establishment of strategic partnerships;
• Assist in the preparation and submission of Expressions of Interest (EoIs), Calls for Proposals, and Calls for Tenders.

Other tasks
• Contribute to the development of IUCN knowledge standards and tools, and support their proper dissemination and uptake among partners;
• Support the development and dissemination of project-related communication materials and content;
• Provide administrative and logistical support for organization of workshops, meetings, and events;
• Represent IUCN at national, regional, and international events;
• Carry out other relevant tasks as requested and agreed upon with the line manager.

SALARY
The gross annual salary for this position is in the range from 27,997 EUR to 34,996 EUR subject to deductions for social security contributions and before tax.