Director, Environmental Sustainability Division

Job Overview: 

Under the leadership of the Director General, the Director of Environmental Sustainability Division is responsible for providing a compelling vision and strategy to drive the work of the Environmental Sustainability Division (ESD). As a key member of the Leadership Team, s/he will be accountable for ensuring the successful implementation of the Commission’s overall strategic plan.

The incumbent will lead the development and implementation of a cohesive plan towards the realization of the aim of the St. George’s Declaration of Principles of Environmental Sustainability (SGD) through programmes and thematic areas such as: Sustainable Energy; Climate & Disaster Resilience; Ocean Governance & Fisheries; Biodiversity and Ecosystems; Land and Water Resources; Chemical, Waste and Pollution Management.

The role will be responsible for creating an environment of trust, open communication and innovative thinking in which teams can be developed and engaged.

The Head will be accountable for achieving measurable environmental outcomes, demonstrating efficient management of resources, and advancing a culture of performance excellence and innovation across the Division.

Job Responsibilities:

Technical

• Develop and implement an Environmental Sustainability strategy in line with the St. George’s Declaration of Principles for Environmental Sustainability in the OECS (SGD).
• Lead on resource mobilisation efforts to develop and advance programmes to support the ESD strategy.
• Apply innovative thinking and adaptive solutions to develop and implement programmes which contribute to building a “world-class” brand for the OECS Environmental Sustainability Division.
• Facilitate the development of regional strategic plans that incorporate policies and strategies of OECS Member States into the wider Caribbean region and facilitate implementation of agreed regional and international governance instruments and frameworks.
• Lead the development and implementation of annual and multi-annual work plans and budgets that reflect the approved program, functions and strategic plan.
• Work closely with Programme Managers and Environmental partners at the national, sub-regional and international levels to coordinate and implement strategies and plans for the advancement of Environmental Sustainability.
• Apply results-based management approaches and appropriate, robust and best practice administrative, fiduciary, monitoring and reporting systems and tools, in collaboration with relevant core functions within the Commission.
• Collaborate closely with other Divisions within the Commission to promote cross-functional cooperation, shared learning, and coordinated implementation of integrated sustainable development initiatives.
• Assist the Director General with the programming, implementation and coordination of technical cooperation programmes, including project preparation and preparation of project audits.
• Lead the delivery of agreed/specific transformation initiatives within the commission and provide support to employees to realise the change.
• Assist in the development of policies and procedures with key stakeholders to support strategy implementation.
• Provide strategic oversight and guidance to the portfolio of projects within the Division, working closely with relevant Project Directors to ensure that the conceptualisation, design, implementation and transitioning of the projects adhere to key principles of strategic relevance and impact, effectiveness, equity, participation, efficiency and sustainability.
• Continuously review and enhance divisional processes, resource allocation, and project delivery mechanisms to drive operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and impact.
• Lead and represent the OECS Commission at relevant governance and technical fora at all levels (ranging from international to communities) to mobilize, leverage and advance strategic advocacy, positions, alliances, functional cooperation, partnerships and resources.
• Provide thought leadership on emerging global sustainability issues, advising the Director General and Member States on risks, opportunities, and innovative approaches to position the OECS as a leader in environmental resilience.

Leadership

• Act as a key member of the Leadership Team responsible for the overall development and implementation of the Commission’s strategic goals.
• Recognise and develop strategic relationships to create effective partnership opportunities.
• Develop a high-performing team by acquiring, developing and engaging talent.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to the Director General, and his Office and to the Leadership Team on plans and trends which may impact the work of the ESD, the Commission and Member States.
• Act as a coach and mentor for the ESD team.
• Perform other relevant duties and responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time by the Director-General.
• Manage Employee Engagement, Succession and workforce planning within the ESD.
• Establish clear performance metrics and accountability systems within the Division to ensure delivery of measurable results, efficient use of resources, and continuous improvement in divisional performance.

Experience and Knowledge:

• At least 10 years’ proven experience in senior leadership and management positions.
• Solid experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Subject Matter expert with at least 15 years’ technical experience in one or more of the areas of responsibility.
• Ability to challenge and influence at all levels.
• Strong negotiation and decision-making skills.
• Applies expert knowledge and broad understanding of multiple disciplines within the technical space.
• Evaluates current and creates new and innovative functional strategies, processes, and tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across multiple levels.
• Ability to analyse problems and recommend a suitable course of action.
• Positive and pragmatic approach to achieving results.
• Minimum qualification of a Master’s Degree in a relevant discipline.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

JOB LOCATION

The OECS Commission is headquartered in Castries, Saint Lucia. The position of Director, Environmental Sustainability Division is stationed at the OECS Commission headquarters.

The OECS Commission values workforce diversity and is open to considering eligible applicants of all backgrounds, genders, religions, and sexual orientations.

Strong emphasis will be placed on recruiting nationals from all OECS Member States. The Commission is particularly underrepresented by nationals of Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Anguilla, The British Virgin Islands, Martinique, Guadeloupe and St Martin. 

Candidates from these Member States are encouraged to apply.