Consultant for Strategic External Review

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and operates in various countries around the world, focusing on issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and resource efficiency. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges and fostering sustainable practices globally. The organization collaborates with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement its mission and objectives.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position is aimed at conducting a Strategic External Review (SER) of the Global Alliance on Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency (GACERE). This review will assess the achievements and shortcomings of the Alliance since its inception, focusing on its resources and operations within the context of the GACERE Concept Note and the evolving global policy landscape. The consultant will be responsible for preparing various reports, including an Inception Report, Preliminary Findings Note, Draft and Final Review Reports, and a Table of Recommendations. The SER will involve mapping existing government-led circular economy networks, evaluating the quality and relevance of GACERE's knowledge dissemination, and assessing the engagement of strategic partners. The ultimate goal is to enhance the impact of the Alliance by improving its outreach and engagement at political levels and in multilateral discussions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including drafting an Inception Report for review by the Programme Officer, conducting online interviews and consultations with stakeholders, and preparing a PowerPoint presentation on preliminary findings and recommendations. The consultant will also draft the External Review report and incorporate feedback from the Programme Officer and other stakeholders into the final report. Additionally, the consultant will be responsible for logistical arrangements related to travel, stakeholder identification, and organizing online surveys. The review process will utilize both quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate the initiative's achievements against expected outputs and outcomes, ensuring a participatory approach that keeps key stakeholders informed and consulted throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental management, international development, management, business administration, or a relevant field in political or social sciences. A minimum of 7 years of programme evaluation experience is required, with a preference for experience in evaluating large, regional, or global programmes using a Theory of Change approach. An excellent understanding of resource efficiency and circular economy policy development is desired, and experience in evaluating intergovernmental initiatives is considered an advantage. Candidates should be able to articulate their relevant experience in programme evaluation, particularly in the context of intergovernmental initiatives.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields such as environmental management, international development, management, business administration, or other relevant areas within political or social sciences. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively conduct the external review and provide strategic recommendations.

Experience:
The consultant must have a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience in programme evaluation, with a strong preference for experience in evaluating large-scale, regional, or global programmes. Familiarity with the Theory of Change approach is crucial, as it will guide the evaluation process. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of resource efficiency and circular economy policies, as well as experience in evaluating intergovernmental initiatives, which will enhance the consultant's ability to assess the GACERE initiative effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also necessary, given that it is another working language of the UN. Additionally, knowledge of Spanish is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders involved in the review process.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is part-time and home-based, with an expected duration of 3 months. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Programme Officer managing the GACERE initiative at UNEP. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not require information regarding applicants' bank accounts.