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 advocating for the global environment, 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 environmental challenges. The organization works closely with governments, local authorities, and industries to develop and adopt policies, strategies, and practices that promote sustainable consumption and production patterns, ensuring the efficient use of natural resources and safe management of chemicals. The GEF Chemicals and Green Chemistry Unit, part of the Chemicals and Health Branch, is responsible for managing GEF projects related to chemicals and waste, ensuring that these projects align with UNEP's broader goals and objectives.

Job Overview:
The Review Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the UNEP/Industry and Economy Division, specifically within the Chemicals and Health branch, by conducting a Terminal Review (TR) for the project titled 'Global Best Practices on Emerging Chemical Policy Issues of Concern under the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM)' (GEF ID 9771). This position requires the consultant to work closely with the UNEP Task Manager to manage the review process effectively and ensure timely delivery of outputs. The consultant will be responsible for ensuring that all review criteria and questions are adequately addressed, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods to assess project performance in terms of relevance, effectiveness, and efficiency. The TR aims to provide evidence of results for accountability and promote operational improvement, learning, and knowledge sharing among UNEP and project partners. The consultant will also be expected to maintain communication with stakeholders throughout the review process, fostering ownership of the findings and recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks related to the Terminal Review, including: conducting a comprehensive desk review of relevant project documentation, preparing key instruments for data collection, and conducting online interviews with stakeholders such as UNEP Task Manager, project management team, and representatives from civil society. The consultant will draft and finalize the TR report in accordance with UNEP evaluation office requirements, revise the report based on feedback, and submit the final version along with a presentation to the Task Manager. Additionally, the consultant will liaise with UNEP teams in Nairobi and Geneva to provide regular updates on progress and arrange for interpretation or translation services as needed during the review process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in environmental sciences, social sciences, international development, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of five years of technical or evaluation experience in projects and programmatic approaches is required, with experience evaluating UNEP and/or GEF projects being highly desirable. Candidates should have a broad understanding of chemicals or pollution management issues related to policy development and institutional frameworks, gained through evaluation or advisory work on environmental, climate, or sustainability programs. Familiarity with the UN system and UNEP's operations is also desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in environmental sciences, engineering, social sciences, international development, or a relevant area is required for this position. A first-level university degree, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively evaluate and manage the review process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of technical or evaluation experience in projects and programmatic approaches. Candidates should have a proven track record in evaluating projects, particularly those related to UNEP and/or GEF. Experience in chemicals or pollution management issues, as well as familiarity with policy development and institutional frameworks, is highly desirable. The consultant should also have experience in conducting evaluations or advisory work on environmental, climate, or sustainability programs, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the relevant issues.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNEP and for the documentation involved in the review process. Additionally, working knowledge of other UN languages is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance the consultant's ability to engage with diverse groups during the review process.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of six months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.