Individual Consultant – Independent Assessment of Grant Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is 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 local partners to address development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, sustainable development, and climate change, and it employs thousands of professionals worldwide to implement its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Consultant for the Independent Assessment of Grant Programme is a deliverable-based consultancy service aimed at evaluating the effectiveness and impact of a specific grant program. The consultant will be responsible for conducting a thorough assessment of the grant program's objectives, outcomes, and overall performance. This role requires a deep understanding of grant management and evaluation methodologies, as well as the ability to analyze data and provide actionable recommendations. The consultant will work closely with UNDP and other stakeholders to ensure that the assessment aligns with the project's goals and contributes to the capacity building of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the field of climate change and biodiversity. The assignment is expected to commence in August 2025 and conclude by January 30, 2026, with the consultant expected to submit a comprehensive report detailing their findings and recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Individual Consultant include but are not limited to: conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the grant program, analyzing data collected from various sources, preparing detailed reports on findings, providing recommendations for improvement, engaging with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback, ensuring that the assessment adheres to UNDP's evaluation standards and guidelines, and presenting findings to UNDP and relevant stakeholders. The consultant will also be responsible for developing a clear methodology for the assessment, including defining key performance indicators and metrics to measure the program's success. Additionally, the consultant may be required to facilitate workshops or meetings to discuss findings and gather further input from stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong background in program evaluation, particularly in the context of grant management. Candidates should possess excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and present findings in a clear and concise manner. Strong communication skills are essential, as the consultant will need to engage with various stakeholders and present findings effectively. Familiarity with climate change and biodiversity issues is highly desirable, as is experience working with civil society organizations. The consultant should also demonstrate a commitment to ethical evaluation practices and possess a strong understanding of the UNDP's mission and values.

Educational Background:
Candidates for this position should hold at least a Master's degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, environmental studies, public administration, or a related discipline. A PhD or equivalent advanced degree is preferred, particularly for those with a focus on evaluation methodologies or climate change issues. Additional certifications in program evaluation or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in program evaluation, with a proven track record of conducting assessments for grant programs or similar initiatives. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of UNDP or similar agencies, is highly desirable. Candidates should also have experience in engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations, to gather insights and feedback for evaluations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. Proficiency in Turkish is also highly desirable, given the local context of the assignment. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region or the field of climate change may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is a deliverable-based contract, meaning that payment will be made upon the successful completion of agreed-upon deliverables. The position is expected to be full-time during the assignment period, and the consultant may be required to travel within Turkey as part of the assessment process. The consultant will work remotely but may need to attend meetings or workshops in person as required. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, and benefits may include access to UNDP resources and networks.