Consultant for Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to create a workplace where everyone can belong and grow.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to provide technical support to the National Planning Commission (NPC) in Nepal, focusing on effective monitoring, evaluation, and learning for the implementation of the Multi-Sector Nutrition Plan (MSNP-III). The consultant will be part of the National Nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security Secretariat team, responsible for ensuring the achievement of Disbursement Linked Indicators (DLIs) essential for fund disbursement under EU budgetary support. The role involves developing training manuals, facilitating monitoring of MSNP interventions, preparing reports, and supporting capacity development initiatives. The consultant will also engage in data management and strategy development, ensuring timely and accurate reporting of data related to nutrition and food security initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop a training manual/toolkit for Nutrition Facilitators (NFLG) orientation and provide technical guidance on data recording and reporting practices.
• Facilitate monitoring of MSNP interventions at provincial and local levels, preparing reports with follow-up actions.
• Monitor progress against annual targets of the MSNP through field visits and ensure data quality.
• Prepare a consolidated MSNP Annual Report for FY 2025/2026 and support data collection and analysis for UNICEF's reports to the EU.
• Document proceedings of high-level committees and prepare presentations.
• Provide technical inputs for revising NFLG indicators and assist in preparing nutrition profiles for local governments.
• Support capacity building and surveys at provincial and local levels.
• Prepare regular bi-monthly updates on MSNP implementation and document best practices and success stories.
• Conduct capacity development programs and prepare reports on M&E activities. 1
• Ensure timely reporting of data through an efficient management system and support the preparation of annual review and planning meetings.

Required Qualifications:

• University Degree in Public Health, Nutrition, Statistics, or related fields.
• At least 5 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) and Information Management Systems.
• Substantial experience working with federal, provincial, and local governments.
• Good understanding of Result Framework and M&E Framework of MSNP-III.
• Proven experience in developing Theory of Change and Result Frameworks for multi-sectoral government plans.
• Experience in managing and updating information management systems and integrated dashboards.
• Familiarity with multisectoral coordination and capacity building is an asset.
• Previous work experience with UNICEF or UN-supported projects is preferred.

Educational Background:
A university degree in relevant fields such as Public Health, Nutrition, or Statistics is required. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of nutrition and food security initiatives and for effectively contributing to the monitoring and evaluation processes.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in MEAL and Information Management Systems, with a strong emphasis on working with government entities at various levels. Experience in developing frameworks for multi-sectoral plans and familiarity with the operational dynamics of nutrition and food security initiatives are crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with proficiency in Nepali being highly desirable. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be full-time, with specific deliverables outlined throughout the contract period. UNICEF promotes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from female candidates and under-represented ethnic groups. The selected candidate will not be considered a staff member under UN regulations and will be responsible for their own tax liabilities. The position may involve flexible working arrangements, and UNICEF provides various benefits to support work-life balance.