Head of International Environmental Technology Centre

About the role

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) seeks a senior leader to head its International Environmental Technology Centre (IETC) in Osaka, Japan. The incumbent will shape and drive UNEP’s waste reduction and circular‑economy strategy, overseeing programme design, resource mobilisation and implementation across high‑impact sectors.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, implement and assess IETC’s waste‑reduction and recycling strategy, ensuring alignment with UNEP’s global agenda and circular‑economy objectives.
• Lead the design and execution of sector‑specific programmes (electronics, plastics, textiles, construction) and manage a portfolio of projects to scale impact.
• Mobilise resources, secure financing, and coordinate with inter‑agency partners to expand pilot initiatives into large‑scale solutions.
• Oversee programme monitoring, budget management, and reporting, ensuring corrective actions and high‑impact outcomes.
• Provide technical guidance, supervise staff, and mentor team members while integrating gender‑mainstreaming principles.

Required profile

• Expert knowledge of waste management, recycling, and circular‑economy approaches across multiple sectors.
• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret waste data, trends and digital assessments.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, resource mobilisation and multi‑stakeholder coordination.
• Demonstrated leadership, mentorship and gender‑balance commitment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to influence senior decision‑makers.