Consultant for Gender-Responsive Procurement Ecosystem Study

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. It merges the work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system that focused on gender equality. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men. The organization works in various countries, including Kenya, where it leads efforts to promote women's rights and coordinate initiatives among stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The position involves conducting an ecosystem study to evaluate the impact of gender-responsive procurement (GRP) initiatives in Kenya. The consultant will assess the effectiveness of the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) programme and related initiatives aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs. The study will identify policy and implementation gaps, analyze procurement frameworks, and propose actionable recommendations to enhance women's participation in procurement processes. The consultant will work closely with the Women’s Economic Empowerment Specialist and the Monitoring and Evaluation Unit to deliver comprehensive insights that will inform evidence-based reforms in the procurement ecosystem.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a detailed impact assessment of GRP initiatives across public and private sectors, focusing on the AGPO programme and similar initiatives.
• Analyze existing procurement policies at national and county levels to identify gaps in gender-responsive practices.
• Perform a gap analysis of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act (PPADA) 2015 to evaluate its effectiveness in supporting women-owned businesses.
• Map stakeholders involved in GRP and create a comprehensive database of procurement opportunities.
• Develop evidence-based recommendations and a practical implementation framework to enhance GRP strategies.
• Prepare reports detailing findings, policy gaps, and actionable recommendations for stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in gender and women's economic empowerment approaches, particularly in gender-responsive procurement. Proven analytical and research skills, with experience in both quantitative and qualitative methods, are essential. The ability to manage time effectively and meet tight deadlines is crucial, along with strong oral and written communication skills. Familiarity with Kenya's procurement frameworks and a focus on impact and results for clients are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in public policy, economics, gender studies, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
At least 7 years of experience in procurement, gender equality, or economic development research is required. Candidates should have proven expertise in policy analysis, impact assessment, and stakeholder engagement, along with strong analytical skills and experience with mixed-methods research.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Kiswahili is required for this position, as effective communication in both languages is essential for stakeholder engagement and reporting.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be completed within eight weeks, with a timeline spanning from 11th August to 15th October 202

• The consultant may work in a hybrid model, with limited field trips required. Payment will be structured in installments based on deliverables, including an inception report, draft report, final comprehensive report, and a procurement opportunities database. UN Women emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and has a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct.