National Consultant for South Africa

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), which plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) globally. Established to promote sustainable development and assist countries in achieving their development goals, UN DESA provides substantive support and capacity-building for the SDGs and their related thematic issues. The organization operates in multiple countries, working with various stakeholders to enhance local and national government capacities for SDG localization. UN DESA is committed to fostering partnerships and collaboration among governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The organization employs a diverse workforce and engages in numerous projects worldwide, focusing on sustainable development, climate change, and social inclusion.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for South Africa will play a pivotal role in implementing the project 'Strengthening local and national government capacities for SDG localization in Africa.' This consultancy aims to enhance the capacities of local and national governments in South Africa to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and support the development of Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs) by local governments. The consultant will work closely with relevant government officials and stakeholders, particularly the South African Local Government Association, to facilitate the preparation of VLRs and ensure alignment with the national review process. The consultant's responsibilities will include conducting assessments, providing guidance on methodologies, and supporting local authorities in their efforts to localize the SDGs effectively. This position requires a deep understanding of sustainable development principles, strong analytical skills, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders to promote inclusivity and gender perspectives in the review process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including: (a) Preparing an inception report that outlines the current state of SDG localization in participating localities, identifies existing data and gaps, and maps relevant institutional coordination mechanisms for SDG implementation. This report will also include a detailed work plan for conducting VLRs, ensuring inclusivity and stakeholder engagement. (b) Supporting the development and finalization of VLRs for five selected local governments by providing guidance on methodology, reviewing drafts for consistency with UN DESA guidelines, and offering statistical support to enhance local monitoring systems. The consultant will also assist in mapping data sources and institutional arrangements to ensure a comprehensive VLR process. (c) Overseeing the organization of a national validation workshop to discuss the development of VLRs, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are engaged and that the process is transparent and inclusive.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in development policy, economics, social sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Applicants should have at least five years of relevant professional experience in national development planning, local development research, and sustainable development analysis. Familiarity with the development challenges facing South Africa and knowledge of the actors involved in the SDG localization process are highly desirable. Previous experience with the United Nations or its agencies is also an asset, along with strong analytical and communication skills and a demonstrated commitment to professionalism and teamwork.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as development policy, economics, or social sciences. A first-level university degree may be considered if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of sustainable development and the localization of SDGs.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in areas such as national development planning, local development research, and sustainable development. Experience in localization analysis, data visualization, and training local government associations on sustainable development principles is crucial. Familiarity with Voluntary National Reviews and Voluntary Local Reviews processes is also important, as is knowledge of the specific development challenges faced by South Africa.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and contribute to international collaboration.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and is expected to last for 90 working days, with the possibility of extension. The position does not specify a fee for the recruitment process, emphasizing that the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage of the recruitment process. This reflects the organization's commitment to transparency and fairness in its hiring practices.