National Consultant to conduct an institutional needs assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, poverty reduction, crisis prevention and recovery, and environmental sustainability. UNDP has a diverse workforce of over 17,000 employees and collaborates with numerous partners to implement its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant will be engaged in conducting an institutional needs assessment aimed at improving the processes for integrated service provision in the field of social assistance in Moldova. This role is crucial as it will help identify gaps and opportunities within the current systems, ensuring that social protection services are effectively delivered to those in need. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and community representatives, to gather data and insights that will inform the assessment. The consultant is expected to provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing institutional framework, recommend improvements, and develop actionable strategies for enhancing service delivery in social assistance. This position requires a deep understanding of social protection systems, strong analytical skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a thorough institutional needs assessment of the current social assistance processes in Moldova.
• Engage with stakeholders to gather qualitative and quantitative data regarding service provision.
• Analyze existing policies, procedures, and institutional frameworks related to social assistance.
• Identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT analysis) within the current system.
• Develop recommendations for improving integrated service provision based on the assessment findings.
• Prepare a detailed report summarizing the assessment results, recommendations, and proposed action plans.
• Present findings to UNDP and relevant stakeholders, facilitating discussions on implementation strategies.
• Collaborate with UNDP and other partners to ensure alignment with national development goals and strategies.
• Provide ongoing support and expertise throughout the implementation of recommended changes.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in conducting institutional assessments, particularly in the field of social protection or social assistance.
• Strong understanding of the social assistance landscape in Moldova or similar contexts.
• Excellent analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear recommendations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proficiency in using relevant software tools for data analysis and report writing.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in social sciences, public administration, international development, or a related field is required. Additional certifications or training in social protection, project management, or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in social protection, institutional assessments, or related fields is required. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs in Moldova or similar contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in Romanian and English is mandatory. Knowledge of Russian is an asset and will be considered a plus.

Additional Notes:
This position is a consultancy role under an individual contractor agreement. The contract duration will be determined based on the project timeline and deliverables. The consultant is expected to work full-time during the assessment period, with flexibility in working hours as needed. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and in accordance with UNDP standards. The consultant may be required to travel within Moldova to conduct stakeholder interviews and gather data.