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 employs thousands of professionals dedicated to addressing global environmental challenges. Its work encompasses a wide range of issues including climate change, sustainable urban development, and biodiversity conservation, among others.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be engaged in the 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. This consultancy is situated within UNEP’s Climate Change Division, specifically in the Mitigation Branch and Climate Change Mitigation Unit. The consultant will be responsible for assessing the project's progress approximately halfway through its implementation, identifying challenges, and recommending corrective actions. The project is currently in its third year of implementation and is expected to conclude 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 to ensure timely delivery of outputs, including a comprehensive final report.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's primary duties include coordinating, authoring, and leading the mid-term review of the project in accordance with GEF and UNEP policies. This involves 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. The consultant will also be responsible for developing findings and recommendations based on sound evidence and analysis, documenting these in the final reports, and ensuring that information is triangulated from various sources. The consultant will conduct a desk review of relevant documentation, including project documents, theory of change, progress reports, and evaluations of similar projects, and will engage in interviews with UNEP team members, project managers, and other stakeholders.

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 and financial reports. Experience working on projects funded by the GEF or multilateral development banks is desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in economics, environmental sciences, management, or a related discipline is required for this position. A first-level degree may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of qualifying experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively evaluate and review the project.

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. This experience should include familiarity with project documents, progress reports, and financial assessments. Experience with GEF-funded projects or similar initiatives is highly desirable, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate the complexities of international development 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 with stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and documentation.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and 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. This ensures that the recruitment process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.