Consultant for Terminal Review of GEF Project

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is recognized as the global environmental authority, established to set the global environmental agenda and promote 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, working to address pressing environmental challenges and fostering sustainable practices worldwide. The organization operates in numerous countries, engaging with various stakeholders to implement environmental initiatives and policies. UNEP's Climate Change Division specifically focuses on climate change mitigation projects, collaborating with partners across Europe and Central Asia to ensure effective project execution and adherence to Global Environment Facility (GEF) guidelines.

Job Overview:
This consultancy position is situated within UNEP’s Climate Change Division, specifically in the GEF Climate Mitigation Unit, Mitigation Branch, Europe and Central Asia team. The consultant will be responsible for conducting a Terminal Review of the GEF project titled 'Transition Towards Electric Mobility in Armenia.' This role is crucial as it involves evaluating the project's effectiveness and ensuring compliance with UNEP and GEF policies. The consultant will work remotely and is expected to deliver high-quality reports based on thorough analysis and evidence. The position requires a strong understanding of project evaluation methodologies and the ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable recommendations. The consultant will report to the Task Manager, Katarina Barunica, and will be expected to manage their time effectively to meet project deadlines while maintaining high standards of quality in their deliverables.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a comprehensive Terminal Review of the GEF project, which includes several key responsibilities. They will author and lead the review process, ensuring that all project elements are evaluated according to UNEP evaluation office guidance documents. The consultant will be responsible for preparing the final report in English, which will include findings and recommendations based on sound evidence and analysis. Specific tasks include conducting a desk review of relevant background documentation, such as project documents, work plans, and financial statements, as well as performing interviews with various stakeholders, including UNEP team members, project managers, and beneficiaries. The consultant will also be tasked with ensuring that the reports are of high quality and submitted on time, with three deliverables expected by specified deadlines. The evaluation process will involve triangulating information from different sources to ensure accuracy and reliability, and the consultant will need to clearly articulate evaluative judgments based on their analysis.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in economics, environmental sciences, management, regional studies, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of two years of experience in evaluating projects related to climate change, environment, or development is required. Additionally, candidates should have experience in drafting project proposals and assessing project documents, including progress reports and financial documents. Experience working with UN projects is desirable, as is experience with multilateral or bilateral funding entities in the fields of climate change, renewable energy, or development.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as economics, environmental sciences, management, or regional studies. In cases where candidates hold a first-level degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience to be considered for the role. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of project evaluation and the environmental issues at hand.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in evaluating projects, particularly in the fields of climate change, environment, or development. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on similar projects and be familiar with the evaluation processes and methodologies used in this context. Experience with UN projects is considered an asset, as is familiarity with the operations of multilateral or bilateral funding entities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both oral and written, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, proficiency in Russian is required for this consultancy role. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN, but it is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is expected to last for a duration of six months and will be part-time. The position is home-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Applicants should be aware that the UN does not request information regarding bank accounts during the recruitment process.