ThaiNGO

1. Background

Plastic pollution is an urgent problem with major, adverse impacts on the health of ocean ecosystems, the integrity of food supplies, and on livelihoods. It is estimated that between 4.8–12.7 Mt of plastics accumulate in oceans every year (Jambeck et al., 2015), 80% of which is believed to originate from land-based sources whereas the remaining 20% from ocean-based sources, such as fisheries and the shipping industry (Ocean Conservancy, 2017). Roughly 75% of the leakage from land-based sources is thought to stem from uncollected waste (Ocean Conservancy, 2017). 

WWF has a vision of an economy and a society that has zero tolerance for plastic pollution and all harm caused to the environment from such pollution. As part of this vision, WWF has launched the global initiative “No Plastic in Nature”, aiming to address the plastic problem using a holistic approach. One key guiding document within this initiative is the Plastic Smart Cities (PSC) Strategic Framework, which is compiled in the PSC Playbook. This document represents a step-by-step approach on how to activate city stakeholders on tackling their specific plastic problem.

In order to stop plastic pollution, action plans based on reliable local data, identified through the baseline studies, are required. Under the Plastic Smart Cities framework, the Scoping and Action Planning approach includes a comprehensive baseline assessment and stakeholder mapping before defining reduction targets and actions. The beneficial impact of projects needs to be measured by formulating key performance indicators (KPIs) and measuring them before and after the intervention.

2. Major Function

Under the project ‘Marine Litter Prevention Through Reduction, Sustainable Design and Recycling of Plastic Packaging (MA-RE-DESIGN) or New Approached to Tackling the Plastic Waste Challenges in Thai Tourism and Local Municipalities (NAPTAM)’ aiming at reducing plastic waste leakage into the sea in Thailand, the incumbent is responsible for initiating relationships and cooperating with local stakeholders to foster long-term collaboration on tackling plastic pollution and promoting circular economy solutions, including local governments, departments, businesses, academics, and other influential stakeholders. S/he will be based in the respective city and report to the Program Manager on a regular basis.

3. Major Duties and Responsibilities

1. Stakeholder engagement

• Working closely with local government and relevant departments (e.g. DMCR, PCD, etc) to support the plastic pollution reduction
• Oversee partnerships with local CSOs, including managing sub-grants, coordination and communication and supervision as needed.
• Identify, entice, and mobilize local champions and community groups to tackle plastic pollution reduction in assigned work location and surrounding area
• Plan and facilitate meetings with local communities and stakeholders, training workshops and visits
• With support from Community Engagement Manager, facilitate local capacity building and registration of appropriate community-based structures to receive grants from WWF

2. Project planning and implementation

• Work in close collaboration with the Program Manager and other Field Coordinators to initiate, appraise and develop concepts, workplans and budgets for new projects in respective cities; and provide relevant local insights to ensure project sustainability and scalability
• Support in developing Action Plan with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure local ownership
• Assist Program Manager in developing and/or reviewing TORs for project contracts and consultants
• Assist Program Manager in working with local government to establish local policy to support plastic pollution reduction
• Assist Program Manager in developing local business linkages for adopting circular economy solutions
• Carry out any other appropriate tasks as need may arise during implementation of the projects

3. M&E and donor reporting

• Support in conducting baseline surveys to determine characteristics and amounts of plastic waste
• Assist Manager to ensure adequate and timely technical reporting internally and to relevant donors

4. Administrative support and assets management

• Follow internal guidelines to ensure that appropriate administrative procedures are implemented
• Arrange key resources required by local partners for improving local waste management
• Update inventories and maintain all equipment provided by the project at field level
• Provide logistical and procurement support and other administrative tasks required by the team
• Perform other duties as assigned

4. Profile

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum five years of professional experience in international and/or local development work
• Demonstrated success in project management and local empowerment would be a strong asset
• Training and academic qualification in conservation and ecology would also be a strong asset
• Experience in a multi-cultural environment and with international organizations is an asset

5. Required Skills and Competencies

• Effective written communication and presentation skills for diverse audiences in Thai and English
• Team player with strong organizational, multi-tasking and problem-solving skills
• High work standards with ability to initiate & maintain relationships, especially with local governments
• Adheres to WWF’s values, which are: Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration

6. Working Relationships

• Internal – Works closely with Program manager, Program Officers, and relevant conservation teams.
• External – Interacts with respective municipalities, governmental agencies, academic institutions, specialists/consultants, local communities and other stakeholders.

This job description covers the main tasks and conveys the spirit of the sort of tasks that are anticipated proactively from staff. Other tasks may be assigned as necessary according to organizational needs.

WWF is an equal opportunity employer and committed to having a diverse workforce