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 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. The organization works collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to foster policies and practices that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production, efficient use of natural resources, and safe management of chemicals. UNEP's Economy Division specifically focuses on integrating environmental considerations into economic decision-making, thereby supporting the development of sustainable economic policies and practices.

Job Overview:
The Review Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the UNEP/Industry and Economy Division/Chemicals and Health branch/GEF C&GCU by conducting a Mid-term Review (MTR) for the project titled 'GEF GOLD+: Global Coordination, knowledge management and outreach' (GEF ID 10606, also known as planetGOLD Global II). This position requires the consultant to manage the review process in close consultation with the UNEP Task Manager, ensuring that all review criteria and questions are adequately addressed. The consultant will be responsible for analyzing the project's performance to date, identifying challenges, and recommending corrective actions to ensure the project remains on track to achieve its intended outcomes. The MTR will utilize both quantitative and qualitative methods to assess project achievements and will involve extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure that the findings are comprehensive and actionable. The consultant will also be expected to maintain regular communication with the project team and stakeholders throughout the review process, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances ownership of the review findings.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Review Consultant will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Conducting a comprehensive desk review of relevant project documentation to identify key data for collection from stakeholders. This includes reviewing project documents, annual work plans, budgets, progress reports, and evaluations of similar projects.
• Organizing and conducting online or in-person interviews with various stakeholders, including UNEP team members, government representatives, civil society organizations, and project co-financers to gather qualitative insights into the project's progress and challenges.
• Drafting the MTR report in accordance with UNEP evaluation office requirements, ensuring that stakeholder consultations are integrated into the report.
• Revising the draft report based on feedback from the UNEP Task Manager and other stakeholders, ensuring clarity and coherence in the final version.
• Submitting the final MTR report and providing regular updates to the UNEP GEF C&GCU Unit team on the progress of the review activities.
• Arranging for interpretation and translation services as needed during the review process to facilitate effective communication with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in environmental sciences, international development, chemical and waste management, or other relevant fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, a minimum of five years of technical and evaluation experience in projects and programmatic approaches is required. Experience in evaluating UNEP and/or GEF projects is highly desirable, as is experience with artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) and mercury projects. A broad understanding of mercury and pollutants management, as well as working knowledge of the UN system and UNEP's operations, is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as environmental sciences, international development, chemical and waste management, or social sciences. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have two additional years of relevant experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively conduct the Mid-term Review and provide valuable insights into the project's progress and challenges.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in technical evaluation and project management. This experience should include a strong focus on programmatic approaches and the ability to assess project performance effectively. Familiarity with UNEP and GEF projects is highly desirable, as is experience in evaluating projects related to artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) and mercury management. The consultant should demonstrate a proven track record of conducting evaluations and providing actionable recommendations based on their findings.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is a mandatory requirement for this position. The ability to communicate effectively in English is crucial for conducting interviews, drafting reports, and engaging with stakeholders throughout the review process. While additional language skills may be beneficial, English proficiency is essential for fulfilling the responsibilities of the Review Consultant.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and home-based, with an expected duration of five months. The consultant will not be charged any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for applications, interviews, or training. This role is designed to be flexible, allowing the consultant to work from their location while contributing to a significant global initiative aimed at improving the sustainability of the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector.