Medium-level Consultant for the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC)

Job Posting Organization:
The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) is a prominent education institute established under the auspices of UNESCO, located in Hamburg, Germany. UIL focuses on lifelong learning and supports Member States in developing inclusive learning ecosystems. The institute emphasizes the importance of education rights and aims to create conditions for effective learning. It operates globally, prioritizing least developed countries and addressing challenges related to social inclusion, sustainability, and economic development. The GNLC, initiated in 2015, has expanded to over 400 member cities worldwide, promoting lifelong learning as a strategic tool for urban development.

Job Overview:
The position of medium-level consultant is crucial for the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC), which aims to enhance the quality, visibility, and coherence of its core activities. The consultant will support the GNLC coordination-team" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Coordination Team in developing and implementing key activities, including membership coordination, monitoring and evaluation, and organizing thematic webinars. The role requires a proactive approach to ensure effective communication and collaboration among member cities, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks and deliverables within a specified timeline. The consultant will also contribute to the GNLC Academy and the preparations for the Seventh International Conference on Learning Cities, ensuring alignment with the network's strategic priorities for 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including organizing an online welcome event for new GNLC members, designing a welcome package, and coordinating introductory meetings. They will oversee the organization of six webinars throughout 2026, ensuring all logistical aspects are managed effectively. The consultant will also enhance the GNLC Communities of Practice platform, coordinate monitoring and evaluation efforts, and contribute to the development of the GNLC Academy. Additionally, they will prepare for the Seventh International Conference on Learning Cities by developing timelines, reviewing application processes, and organizing selection procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in political sciences, international relations, education, social sciences, development studies, or related fields. They should have at least four years of relevant work experience in project coordination or management, particularly in education or international cooperation. Experience in planning multi-stakeholder activities, event organization, and data coordination is essential. Familiarity with lifelong learning and urban development, as well as prior experience with UNESCO projects, is highly desirable. Strong drafting, communication, and analytical skills are required, along with proficiency in MS Office and data visualization tools.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as political sciences, international relations, education, social sciences, or development studies is required for this position. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of lifelong learning and international cooperation, which are central to the role.

Experience:
The consultant should have a minimum of four years of relevant work experience, particularly in project coordination or management within the education sector. Experience in organizing events, managing data, and collaborating with local governments or public institutions is crucial. Familiarity with international projects and the UNESCO system will be advantageous, as the role involves working closely with various stakeholders in the field of education.

Languages:
Fluency in English, French, and Spanish is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in Portuguese is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with Lusophone member cities and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is remote and is expected to last between 7 to 11 months. The consultant will be required to submit deliverables by specified deadlines throughout the contract period. The role is open to external candidates, and UNESCO emphasizes the importance of gender mainstreaming and diversity in its recruitment process. The consultant will work under the supervision of the GNLC Coordinator and will be responsible for ensuring that all materials produced align with UNESCO’s branding guidelines.