Mid-Term Review Consultant

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 a mission to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members, working collaboratively with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy and to strengthen the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition.

Job Overview:
The Mid-Term Review Consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive mid-term review of two significant projects: 'Ecosystem Restoration and Sustainable Land Management to Improve Livelihoods and Protect Biodiversity in Nauru' and 'Integrated Land Management, Restoration of Degraded Landscapes and Natural Capital Assessment in the Mountains of Papua New Guinea.' The consultant will assess the overall achievements of these projects at their mid-point, identify challenges faced, and engage with project counterparts to address issues through effective corrective measures in project activities and outputs, monitoring and evaluation, resource allocation, and related GEF and co-financing arrangements. This position requires a strong understanding of environmental policies, project management, and evaluation methodologies, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to ensure the review process is participatory while maintaining independence.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include conducting a preliminary desk review and introductory interviews with project staff, preparing the review framework in line with UNEP's evaluation guidelines, identifying stakeholders, developing an interview/questions matrix, and planning the review schedule. The consultant will also conduct further desk reviews and in-depth interviews with project implementing and executing agencies, project partners, and stakeholders, as well as undertake field assessment missions to Nauru and Papua New Guinea. Regular reporting to the Task Manager on progress and any potential problems encountered is essential. The consultant will draft the Mid-Term Review Reports, ensuring they are complete, coherent, and consistent with the Terms of Reference and Task Manager guidelines. Additionally, maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders and communicating promptly with the Task Manager on any issues requiring attention is crucial.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum advanced university degree in environmental sciences, international development, or another relevant political or social sciences area. A first-level university degree in the same area is acceptable with two additional years of relevant experience. At least seven years of technical/evaluation experience is required, preferably including evaluating large, regional, or global programs and using a Theory of Change approach. Experience in GEF Biodiversity projects is desirable, as is knowledge of the UN system, particularly the work of UNEP. Professional work experience in the Pacific region on ecosystem restoration, sustainable land management, and natural capital accounting is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in environmental sciences, international development, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in the same area is acceptable if accompanied by two additional years of relevant experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of environmental policies and project evaluations.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of technical and evaluation experience, with a preference for candidates who have evaluated large, regional, or global programs. Familiarity with the Theory of Change approach is essential, as it is a critical framework for assessing project outcomes and impacts. Experience specifically related to GEF Biodiversity projects is highly desirable, as it indicates a strong understanding of the context and challenges associated with such initiatives. Additionally, professional experience in the Pacific region, particularly in areas related to ecosystem restoration and sustainable land management, will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required, along with strong writing and editing skills. While English is the primary working language for this position, knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in both languages can enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders and facilitate collaboration on international projects.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is home-based, with an expected duration of six months. The consultant will be required to undertake field visits to Nauru and Papua New Guinea, which will involve approximately seven days in each location to assess project sites. The position does not specify a fee for the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage of recruitment. The role is expected to be full-time, and the consultant will report directly to the Task Manager of the GEF Biodiversity and Land Degradation Unit.