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. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to become a key player in environmental governance, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, to address pressing environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices globally.

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 focuses on promoting integrated metropolitan planning and innovative urban technology investments in Brazil. The MTR is a critical evaluation that occurs approximately halfway through the project’s implementation phase, aimed at assessing the project's progress, identifying challenges, and recommending corrective actions. The consultant will work closely with the Latin America and the Caribbean Task Manager for GEF mitigation projects and will be expected to manage the review process effectively, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs. The project is currently in its third year of implementation and is set to conclude technical operations in July 2028.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: coordinating, authoring, and leading the mid-term review in accordance with GEF and UNEP policies; managing the overall review process and ensuring timely delivery of the final report in English; conducting interviews with key stakeholders, including in-person interviews in Brasilia and site visits in Florianópolis; evaluating all project elements in line with UNEP Evaluation Office guidelines; ensuring all deliverables adhere to UNEP Evaluation Office templates; developing mid-term review findings and recommendations based on sound evidence and analysis; and documenting all findings clearly in the final reports. The consultant will also be responsible for triangulating information from various sources to ensure accuracy and reliability in the evaluation process.

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 must have experience in evaluating and monitoring development projects in Latin America, including assessments of project documents such as concept notes, progress reports, work plans, and financial documents. Experience working on projects funded by the GEF, multilateral development banks, or projects implemented by UNEP 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 relevant experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of urban planning and environmental management, which are critical to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience, particularly in the fields of urban planning, sustainability, and green infrastructure. Candidates should have a strong background in evaluating and monitoring development projects, particularly in Latin America. This experience should include familiarity with project documentation and the ability to assess project performance effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Portuguese is mandatory for this consultancy, with both oral and written proficiency required. 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 documentation throughout the review process.

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. It is important to note that the United Nations does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.