International Consultant for Project Evaluation

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment. It consolidates the efforts of four previously distinct parts of the UN system focused on gender issues. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization works in various countries, addressing issues of gender-based violence, economic empowerment, and political participation, among others.

Job Overview:
The position involves leading the evaluation of the project 'Women’s Leadership and Political Participation During South Sudan’s Transitional Period,' which is supported by the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF). This project aims to enhance women's participation in political and peacebuilding processes in South Sudan, particularly during its transitional period. The evaluation will assess the project's relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, coherence, sustainability, and its contribution to peacebuilding outcomes. The consultant will employ a participatory approach, engaging with various stakeholders to gather comprehensive insights into the project's impact and effectiveness. The evaluation will also focus on the project's alignment with national commitments and its role in addressing gender-based exclusion as a driver of conflict.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for designing and implementing the evaluation methodology, conducting stakeholder interviews, facilitating focus group discussions, and analyzing data collected from various sources. Key responsibilities include assessing the strategic relevance of the project, evaluating its contribution to peacebuilding outcomes, and determining the effectiveness of intended outcomes. The consultant will also evaluate the efficiency of the implementation strategy, sustainability of institutional strengthening, and the catalytic effect of PBF funding. Additionally, the consultant will document lessons learned and provide actionable recommendations for future programming.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in sociology, development studies, political science, law, peace and conflict studies, international relations, public administration, or a related field. A minimum of 7 years of experience in community security, conflict prevention, peacebuilding, governance, inclusive participation, gender mainstreaming, and human rights promotion is required. Extensive experience in conducting evaluations in conflict-affected settings using mixed methods and participatory approaches is essential. Familiarity with the political context in South Sudan or the East African region is preferred, along with excellent facilitation and report writing skills. Experience with UN agencies and familiarity with the PBF is a strong advantage.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as sociology, development studies, political science, law, peace and conflict studies, international relations, or public administration is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of gender issues, governance, and peacebuilding in a transitional context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in fields such as community security, conflict prevention, peacebuilding, governance, and gender mainstreaming. Candidates should have a proven track record of conducting evaluations in conflict-affected settings, utilizing mixed methods of research and participatory approaches that are sensitive to gender and youth issues. Knowledge of the South Sudanese political landscape and experience working with UN agencies will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of Arabic is preferred, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the evaluation process.

Additional Notes:
The evaluation is expected to take place over a period of 45 days from June to August 2026, with a significant portion of the work conducted in-person in Juba, Malakal, and Pibor. The evaluation will be managed by the UN Women M&E lead, with oversight from the Deputy Country Representative. The Evaluation Management Group will ensure quality assurance throughout the evaluation process. The consultant will be expected to deliver an inception report, draft and final evaluation reports, and a communication product highlighting key achievements and lessons learned. The evaluation will also adhere to UN Women’s values and competencies framework, emphasizing integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity.