DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) is a United Nations multi-partner trust fund established to close the weather and climate data gap that undermines effective climate action and sustainable development. With a Secretariat hosted by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and co-sponsored by UNDP and UNEP, SOFF provides long-term, predictable support for the generation and international sharing of essential weather and climate observations, with a particular focus on Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
SOFF supports countries in meeting the requirements of the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON), ensuring that all nations can both contribute to and benefit from improved global weather and climate data. By strengthening systematic observations, SOFF enhances early-warning systems, climate services, and resilience to climate risks.
To broaden its impact and secure sustainable financing, SOFF is expanding its engagement with the private sector. The Facility seeks to leverage private capital, innovation, and expertise through innovative finance mechanisms, including for the new Systematic Observation Impact Bond.
Under the supervision of the Deputy Director/Head of Partnerships, the Innovative Finance Officer will support the resource mobilization from the private sector with a focus on innovative finance, contributing to a USD 200 million target by 2027.
This temporary assignment is intended to provide focused technical and coordination support during the preparatory and early implementation phase of SOFF’s private sector and innovative-finance work stream.
ACCOUNTABILITIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
(a) Innovative Finance
- Contribute to the design, coordination and engagement for the new Systematic Observation Impact Bond, including the establishment of a coalition with committed partners.
- Support analytical and coordination work related to other innovative financing mechanisms.
- Assist in the preparation of investment briefs, financial concept notes, and outreach materials to engage prospect investors and donors.
- Liaise with financial, legal and technical experts to ensure consistency with SOFF’s governance and fiduciary standards.
- Liaise with the COP30 Presidency to follow-up on the new Impact Bond.
(b) Private Sector Engagement
- Support the development and implementation of the broader SOFF’s Private Sector Engagement Strategy.
- Conduct mapping of relevant corporate and philanthropic actors (corporates, financial institutions, data and technology companies, insurers, and foundations) and identify priority engagement opportunities in coordination with WMO, UNEP and UNDP.
- Draft and maintain partner profiles and outreach databases.
- Develop tailored proposals and funding requests.
- Organize meetings, events, presentations, and partnership dialogues with private sector representatives.
- Contribute to communication and visibility materials targeting corporate and philanthropic audiences.
(c) Knowledge and Thought Leadership
- Contribute to the documentation of lessons learned and good practices in innovative finance and private sector engagement.
- Support preparation of knowledge products and communication materials for external dissemination.
- Assist in organizing internal learning sessions or external events on innovative finance and partnerships.
DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 12, 2025
