Consultant for Mid-term Review of GEF-7 Sustainable Cities Project

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 has been operational since 197

• It has a diverse workforce of over 1,000 employees and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide, focusing on various environmental issues including climate change, sustainable development, and biodiversity.

Job Overview:
This consultancy position is situated within UNEP’s Climate Change Division, specifically in the Mitigation Branch and Climate Change Mitigation Unit. The consultant will be responsible for conducting a Mid-term Review (MTR) of the Brazil GEF-7 Sustainable Cities project, which aims to promote integrated metropolitan planning and innovative urban technology investments in Brazil. The MTR is a critical assessment that occurs approximately halfway through the project implementation phase, allowing for an analysis of the project's progress, identification of challenges, and recommendations for corrective actions. The project has been in operation for three years and is expected to conclude its technical operations in July 202

• The consultant will work closely with the Latin America and the Caribbean Task Manager for GEF mitigation projects and will manage the review process, ensuring timely delivery of outputs and adherence to UNEP and GEF guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including coordinating, authoring, and leading the mid-term review in accordance with GEF and UNEP policies. They will be responsible for conducting interviews with key stakeholders, including in-person interviews in Brasilia and site visits in Florianópolis. The consultant will evaluate all project elements based on UNEP Evaluation Office guidelines and ensure that all deliverables adhere to the required templates. They will develop findings and recommendations based on sound evidence and analysis, documenting these in the final reports. The consultant will also conduct a desk review of relevant background documentation, including project documents, theory of change, project reports, and evaluations of similar projects. They will be expected to deliver three high-quality reports within the specified deadlines, ensuring that the reports meet UNEP's quality standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in economics, environmental sciences, management, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level degree with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of five years of technical experience related to urban planning, architecture, sustainability, and green infrastructure is required. Additionally, candidates should have experience in evaluating and monitoring development projects in Latin America, including assessments of project documents such as concept notes, progress reports, and financial documents. Experience working on projects funded by the GEF or multilateral development banks is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as economics, environmental sciences, or management. A first-level degree may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of qualifying experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of urban planning and environmental management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of technical experience in urban planning, architecture, sustainability, and green infrastructure. Candidates should have a strong background in evaluating and monitoring development projects, particularly in Latin America. Experience with GEF-funded projects or similar initiatives is highly desirable, as it demonstrates familiarity with the specific requirements and expectations of such projects.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Portuguese is required for this consultancy, both in oral and written forms. Additionally, knowledge of French is beneficial, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication and reporting within the context of the consultancy.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of five months. The position does not involve any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for applications, interviews, or training. The organization emphasizes that it does not require any personal banking information from applicants.