Consultant for Crisis Analysis

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, dedicated to the belief that a better world is possible. Established with a mission to help people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities, Mercy Corps focuses on providing bold solutions in times of disaster and hardship. The organization emphasizes diversity within its teams, believing that varied backgrounds, perspectives, and skills contribute to stronger outcomes and long-term impact. Mercy Corps has developed a Crisis Analysis function to support its programming in complex contexts, including regions such as Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Ukraine, ensuring that its analytical products are timely, relevant, and constructive for humanitarian and development responders.

Job Overview:
The Consultant for Crisis Analysis will play a crucial role in supporting Mercy Corps’ programming in Lebanon and the surrounding region. This position involves conducting in-depth research and analysis to inform advocacy efforts aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of Syrian refugees and host communities. The consultant will be tasked with mapping viable sectors, identifying enabling conditions, and analyzing barriers to investment, thereby generating evidence that aids advocacy and policy actors. The role is integral to the Regional Development and Protection Program (RDPP), which seeks to promote inclusive, market-driven approaches to refugee self-reliance. The consultant will engage in qualitative research, including key informant interviews (KIIs), to gather insights that will inform policy dialogue and strategic partnerships.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key activities, including identifying and sharing relevant existing studies and documents related to the research questions. They will contextualize and translate KII interview guides into Arabic, engage with key informants, and conduct KIIs with stakeholders. The consultant will produce transcripts and summaries of these interviews, ensuring they align with the guiding questions and research objectives. Additionally, the consultant will contribute to the design of the qualitative research methodology, assist in desk research, validate analytical findings, and review drafts of reports. They will also co-present findings to both internal and external audiences, participating in workshops and panels as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess strong analytical skills, with a background in research methodologies and qualitative analysis. Experience in the humanitarian or development sector, particularly in contexts related to refugee and host community dynamics, is highly desirable. The consultant should demonstrate the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Familiarity with the socio-economic landscape of Lebanon and Syria, as well as an understanding of market systems and private-sector engagement, will be advantageous.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically a master's degree in social sciences, international development, economics, or a related field. Candidates with a strong academic foundation in research methods and policy analysis will be preferred.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in research, analysis, or consultancy roles within the humanitarian or development sectors. Experience working with refugee populations or in conflict-affected areas will be particularly relevant. The consultant should also have a proven track record of producing high-quality analytical reports and engaging with policy stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is mandatory, as the consultant will be required to conduct interviews and produce documents in Arabic. Proficiency in English is also essential for report writing and communication with international stakeholders. Knowledge of French or other languages relevant to the region would be considered a plus.

Additional Notes:
The project is scheduled to commence on June 1, 2026, with a series of deliverables due throughout the project timeline, including an inception report and a final research report. The consultant is expected to dedicate approximately 15 days to this assignment. Compensation will be based on the consultant's experience, and the position is open to both national and international applicants. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment.