Evaluation Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 195

• Its mission is to promote the economic and social development of its member states, foster regional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. ECA operates in multiple countries across the African continent, with a focus on providing data, policy analysis, and capacity-building support to its member states. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to addressing the continent's challenges and opportunities, with a commitment to sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Evaluation Specialist will play a crucial role in assessing the performance of the programme against its overall objectives as outlined in the project document. This position requires a systematic and objective evaluation process, culminating in a well-structured evaluation report and summaries that adhere to the ECA's quality standards. The evaluation is scheduled to take place in the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, with the final report due by February 28, 202

• The specialist will be responsible for delivering several key outputs, including an inception report detailing the evaluation methodology, a post-data collection debrief meeting, a draft evaluation report, and a final evaluation report along with evaluation summaries. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of evaluation practices, particularly in the context of land law and governance frameworks, and requires the ability to engage with various stakeholders to ensure the evaluation's success.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Evaluation Specialist will be tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, including: 1) Designing, planning, and implementing the evaluation in accordance with the Terms of Reference (ToR). 2) Leading the data collection process and consulting with project stakeholders, key informants, and partners to ensure the timely delivery of all evaluation deliverables. 3) Analyzing key findings to provide an overall assessment of the project's performance, drawing conclusions and making recommendations based on the evaluation. 4) Drafting the evaluation report in collaboration with the Evaluation Manager, ensuring it meets ECA's specifications and timelines. 5) Preparing and delivering a presentation on the draft evaluation report to relevant stakeholders. 6) Managing and coordinating the data collection support team, providing technical leadership and ensuring high-quality outputs. 7) Participating in briefings and discussions as necessary, either online or in person, to discuss the evaluation process and findings. The specialist must maintain independence, impartiality, and integrity throughout the evaluation process, safeguarding the rights and confidentiality of information providers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Development Studies, Economics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Policy, or a related social science field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with three years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have proven experience in evaluating international development interventions and a strong background in designing and leading theory-based evaluations. Familiarity with strategic planning approaches, monitoring and evaluation methods (including quantitative, qualitative, and participatory approaches), and information analysis is essential. Experience in evaluating capacity-building interventions is desirable, as is knowledge of land law, governance frameworks, and gender mainstreaming within the African context.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Development Studies, Economics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Policy, or a related social science discipline is required. A first-level university degree with a relevant combination of three years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree, highlighting the importance of both formal education and practical experience in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in evaluating international development interventions, with a proven track record of designing and leading theory-based evaluations. Experience with strategic planning approaches and various monitoring and evaluation methods is crucial. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in analyzing data and writing comprehensive reports, as well as experience in evaluating capacity-building initiatives. Familiarity with land law and governance frameworks, particularly in the African context, will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. A working knowledge of French will be considered a distinct advantage, given the bilingual nature of many UN operations. Additionally, knowledge of one or more local languages spoken in the target countries will be an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The evaluation is expected to last for a duration of five months, with the final report due by February 28, 202

• This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The United Nations emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process. Candidates are encouraged to consult the detailed terms of reference for further information regarding the evaluation and its objectives.