Consultant for Strategic Review of Global Influencing Work

Job Posting Organization:
The Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance (the Alliance) is a collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening climate resilience and reducing disaster risk. The Alliance combines community programming with systems-level change to address the challenges posed by climate change. It is part of Mercy Corps, which has a long-standing commitment to humanitarian assistance and development. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to making a positive impact on communities affected by climate-related disasters. The Alliance is focused on global influencing work, particularly in the areas of climate adaptation and finance, and aims to shape policies and practices that enhance resilience to climate change.

Job Overview:
The consultant will conduct a strategic review of the global influencing work of the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance, specifically focusing on the activities of the 3.5 person HQ team at Mercy Corps. This review is intended to inform adjustments for Phase 3A (2024-2027) and shape the direction for Phase 3B (2028-2031). The consultant will assess the effectiveness of the HQ team's direct influencing activities, leadership in global influencing, and support provided to country teams. The review will also identify opportunities and risks for the remainder of Phase 3A and provide recommendations for strengthening the HQ team's global influencing work. The consultant will utilize a mixed-methods approach, including desk reviews and key informant interviews, to gather insights and evaluate the impact of the HQ team's efforts in influencing global policy discussions on climate adaptation and finance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive review of the HQ team's global influencing work, which includes:

• Assessing the effectiveness of direct influencing activities over the past two years, particularly regarding adaptation finance.
• Evaluating the HQ team's role in coordinating and leading global influencing efforts across the Alliance.
• Identifying the Alliance's unique selling proposition (USP) in global influencing.
• Reviewing the support provided to country teams for engaging in global influencing and strengthening national-level influencing strategies.
• Conducting key informant interviews with various stakeholders, including HQ team members, external partners, and country teams.
• Producing deliverables such as an inception note, preliminary outcomes note, slide deck, and a narrative report with results and recommendations.
• Presenting findings during a strategy refresh meeting in the UK.

Required Qualifications:
The consultant must possess strong expertise in global advocacy and policy influencing, particularly in relation to climate resilience, climate finance, adaptation, or disaster risk reduction (DRR). A good understanding of international climate policy processes, especially those under the UNFCCC, is essential. Proven experience in conducting strategic reviews, evaluations, or learning exercises focused on advocacy and influencing initiatives is required. The consultant should have experience working with NGOs, alliances, or international organizations, and demonstrate strong qualitative research, analysis, and synthesis skills. The ability to produce concise, strategic, decision-oriented outputs and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders is crucial. Additionally, the consultant must be capable of delivering high-quality work within tight timeframes.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a master's degree in a field related to international development, environmental policy, climate science, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in climate resilience or advocacy may be advantageous.

Experience:
The consultant should have significant experience in global advocacy and policy influencing, with a focus on climate-related issues. Experience in conducting strategic reviews or evaluations of advocacy initiatives is essential, along with a demonstrated ability to engage with various stakeholders in the climate policy arena. Previous work with international organizations or alliances will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all communications and deliverables will be in English. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the regions of focus may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is remote, allowing for flexibility in location. There are no country restrictions on the location of the consultant. The assignment is expected to start as soon as possible, ideally by April 1, 2026, and will run until July 1, 202

• The consultant will be required to submit a brief proposal outlining their understanding of the assignment, a workplan, day rates, and total costs. The closing date for applications is March 6, 2026.