Sooty Falcon Working Group Coordinator

Result of Service An International Single Species Action Plan for the Sooty Falcon is produced based on the most updated and sound information available on the population size, trend, and threats concerning the species. The SFWG is re-established to guide and facilitate the development of the plan, and facilitate its periodic review.

The expected results are: 1) Electronic Sooty Falcon library established; 2) SFWG re-established and active; 3) ISSAP for the Sooty Falcon produced; 4) Information on the Sooty Falcon and related activities shared through CMS’ online channels.

Work Location Home-based

Expected duration 65 days over the course of 12 months

Duties and Responsibilities Background

The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) aims to conserve terrestrial, aquatic and avian migratory species throughout their range. It is an intergovernmental treaty, concluded under the aegis of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), concerned with the conservation of wildlife and habitats on a global scale. As an "umbrella" Convention, CMS maintains close institutional and programmatic linkages with its associated instruments, including with those agreements that are legally independent. The "parent" Convention, CMS, and its "daughter" agreements and memoranda of understanding are often collectively referred to as the "CMS Family".

The CMS Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia (Raptors MOU) aims to promote internationally coordinated actions to achieve and maintain the favourable conservation status of migratory birds of prey throughout their range in the African-Eurasian region, and to reverse their decline when and where appropriate. The Coordinating Unit of the Raptors MOU is based in Abu Dhabi. The Raptors MOU includes a detailed Action Plan for the conservation of migratory birds of prey in Africa and Eurasia. This sets out clear Objectives, Priority Actions and an Implementation Framework which specifically includes Activities, Priorities, Time Schedules, Responsibilities and Targets. The Signatories to the Raptors MOU agreed that, within two years of the MOU coming into effect, they would aim to prepare single species action plans for globally threatened species such as the Sooty Falcon (see Raptors MOU Agreement Text, para 12, and its Annex 3, table 2, activity 6.2).

The Sooty Falcon (Falco concolor) is classified as 'Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List, following a revision of its global population estimate. The species is now estimated to have a single small, declining population, although the precise drivers of its decline remain unclear. Accordingly, the species is listed in Category 1 within the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia (Raptors MoU).

The Signatories to the Raptors MOU agreed that, within two years of the MOU coming into effect, they would aim to prepare single species action plans for globally threatened species such as the Sooty Falcon (see Raptors MOU Agreement Text, para 12, and its Annex 3, table 2, activity 6.2).

A suitably experienced consultant, working under the direct supervision of the Head of the Coordinating Unit of the Raptors MOU and the overall supervision of the Executive Coordinator of the CMS Office - Abu Dhabi, is sought to re-establish and coordinate the Sooty Falcon Working Group (SFWG) and to review, improve, update and finalize an International Single Species Action Plan (ISSAP) that summarizes accurate and comprehensive information on the global population status of, and main threats faced by the Sooty falcon, and that identifies required conservations measures.

Qualifications/special skills Skills: Fully proficient computer skills, covering standard software such as MS Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Earth are required Academic Qualifications: Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in environmental sciences, conservation, species management, zoology or a closely related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. Experience: A minimum of five years' professional work experience in birds of prey conservation is required. Experience translating research results into policy documents (e.g. Species Action Plans) is required. Experience in working with international working groups or other stakeholders on conservation matters is desirable. Experience in Sooty Falcon conservation, in particular, dealing with its range states’ stakeholders, is an advantage. Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentational skills are desirable. Sound judgment coupled with strong analytical and report writing abilities is desirable. Ability to synthesize scientific and other technical content into captivating web posts is desirable. Language: Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required.

No Fee THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.