REDD+ AND GOVERNMENT LIAISON ADVISOR, MADAGASCAR

Key responsibilities

1.  Government collaboration and capacity sharing

• With government partners, support the development and implementation of a jurisdictional program that values project-based REDD+ through a nested approach.
• Act as focal point and liaison between WCS and government partners for all REDD+ matters. 
• Support improvements of the political, jurisdictional, institutional, and financial frameworks necessary for effective governance of REDD+.
• Provide technical assistance for the development of national and regional REDD+ strategies and action plans, and ensure the value of project-based REDD+ is represented.
• Work closely with government officials to support understanding and implementation of national REDD+ strategies and their contribution to the 2030 vision for Madagascar.
• Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to integrate REDD+ into national policies and frameworks.
• Facilitate capacity building and training workshops for government personnel and stakeholders.

2.  Project support and management

• Support the technical development and implementation of specific REDD+ projects within Madagascar.
• Provide technical expertise in areas such as carbon accounting, and ensure compliance of biodiversity and community engagement programs, working with social safeguards teams.
• Support development of project documentation for validation and verification.
• Support validation and verification processes including site visits by validation and verification bodies.
• Ensure inclusion of forest carbon project development and implementation in relevant work planning and funding proposals.
• Provide capacity building of WCS staff as needed.

3.  Stakeholder engagement and partnership development

• Build and maintain relationships with government, NGOs, and private sector entities related to REDD+.
• Facilitate inclusive and participatory approaches in REDD+ project planning and implementation.
• Promote knowledge sharing and best practices among various stakeholders.
• Represent WCS’ interests to the Government of Madagascar and other REDD+ stakeholders.

4.  Reporting and communication

• Prepare regular reports on program and project progress for government and donors as required.
• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability.
• Represent WCS’ REDD+ program in regional, national, and international forums as required.
• Ensure WCS global REDD+ team is informed of any relevant developments, challenges, and opportunities.

Required qualifications and skills

• A master’s degree in Environmental Science, Forestry, Climate Change, or a related field, or bachelor's degree with demonstrated professional experience.
• Four years’ experience in REDD+, carbon markets, climate change mitigation, or related fields.
• Understanding of international carbon markets and jurisdictional and nested standards.
• Proven experience in program and project management, ideally in Madagascar.
• Familiarity with the political, social, and environmental landscape of Madagascar.
• Fluency in Malagasy, and professional-level English or French
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multicultural team.