Consultant - Conduct institutional and capacity assessments for the Ombudsman

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, sustainable development, and resilience to crises. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, contributing to its mission of promoting human development and fostering inclusive growth.

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant involves conducting institutional and capacity assessments specifically for the Office of the Ombudsman in Lesotho. The consultant will be responsible for evaluating the current institutional frameworks and capacities of the Ombudsman’s office, identifying gaps, and providing recommendations for improvement. This role is crucial as it aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the Ombudsman in fulfilling its mandate. The consultant will work closely with stakeholders, including government officials and civil society organizations, to gather data and insights that will inform the assessment process. The assignment is expected to last for a period of 50 days, during which the consultant will engage in various activities such as interviews, surveys, and analysis of existing documentation. The findings from this assessment will be instrumental in strengthening the Ombudsman’s role in promoting accountability and transparency in governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Conducting thorough institutional assessments of the Ombudsman’s office to evaluate its current operational capacity and effectiveness.
• Engaging with key stakeholders to gather qualitative and quantitative data regarding the Ombudsman’s functions and challenges.
• Analyzing existing policies, procedures, and frameworks that govern the Ombudsman’s operations.
• Identifying strengths and weaknesses within the institution and providing actionable recommendations for capacity building.
• Preparing detailed reports that outline findings, conclusions, and recommendations based on the assessments conducted.
• Presenting the assessment results to relevant stakeholders and facilitating discussions on potential reforms and improvements.
• Ensuring that the assessment process is inclusive and considers the perspectives of various groups, including marginalized communities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in public administration, governance, or a related field. A proven track record in conducting institutional assessments or evaluations is essential. Additionally, familiarity with the legal and institutional framework of the Ombudsman’s office in Lesotho will be highly advantageous. The consultant should demonstrate excellent analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear and actionable recommendations. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary to effectively engage with stakeholders and present findings. Experience working with international organizations or in a development context will be considered a plus.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a master’s degree in public administration, political science, law, or a related discipline is required. Advanced qualifications or certifications in governance, public policy, or institutional development will be viewed favorably. The educational background should reflect a solid understanding of governance structures and processes, particularly in the context of Lesotho or similar environments.

Experience:
The consultant should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in institutional assessments, capacity building, or governance-related projects. Experience working with the Ombudsman or similar oversight institutions is highly desirable. The candidate should also have a demonstrated ability to work in multi-stakeholder environments and manage complex projects effectively. Previous experience in Lesotho or the Southern African region will be an added advantage, as it will provide valuable context for the assessment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all reports and communications will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of Sesotho or other local languages will be considered an asset, as it may facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the inclusivity of the assessment process.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an individual contractor role, and the assignment is expected to last for 50 days. The consultant will be required to submit proposals directly through the UNDP procurement portal. The deadline for submitting proposals is set for June 21, 2026, at 4:16 PM New York time. The consultant will be expected to work independently while also collaborating with the UNDP team and other stakeholders involved in the assessment process. Compensation details and specific benefits will be outlined in the contract upon selection.