Evaluation Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in African countries. The ECA was founded in 1958 and has since been instrumental in fostering regional integration and cooperation among member states. The organization operates in multiple countries across Africa, focusing on various development issues, including gender equality, economic growth, and sustainable development. The ECA aims to provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration among African governments, civil society, and the private sector to address the continent's challenges and opportunities.

Job Overview:
The Evaluation Specialist will play a crucial role in assessing the performance of the project titled 'Capacity Building for Gender Statistics and Monitoring Systems.' This position requires a qualified individual who can conduct a terminal evaluation that is objective and systematic. The evaluator will be responsible for delivering a well-edited and formatted evaluation report that adheres to the terms of reference and meets ECA's quality standards. The evaluation will focus on the project's effectiveness, sustainability, and impact, particularly in improving the availability and use of gender statistics in African transition countries. The specialist will need to have a strong background in evaluation methodologies and experience in development contexts, particularly in gender-related projects. The role also involves engaging with various stakeholders to gather insights and data necessary for a comprehensive evaluation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Evaluator will be responsible for the entire evaluation process, which includes designing, planning, and implementing the final evaluation according to the Terms of Reference (ToR). Key responsibilities include leading data collection efforts, consulting with project stakeholders, key informants, and partners to ensure the successful delivery of all evaluation deliverables. The evaluator will analyze key findings to provide an overall assessment of the project's performance, draw conclusions, and make recommendations based on identified lessons learned and best practices. Additionally, the evaluator will draft the evaluation report in alignment with ECA's specifications and timelines, and prepare a presentation on the draft report. The evaluator may also participate in briefings and discussions regarding the evaluation process as needed.

Required Qualifications:
The minimum qualifications for the Evaluator include an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Development Studies, Economics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Policy, or a related social science field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two years of additional qualifying experience may be accepted. Candidates must have at least 10 years of experience evaluating international development interventions and proven experience in designing and leading theory-based evaluations. Familiarity with strategic planning approaches, monitoring and evaluation methods, and information analysis is essential. Experience in gender mainstreaming, particularly within an African context, is advantageous, as is experience evaluating UN programs and projects.

Educational Background:
Candidates are required to hold an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Development Studies, Economics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Policy, or a related social science discipline. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of development interventions and evaluation methodologies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of experience in evaluating international development interventions. Candidates should have a strong track record in designing and leading evaluations, particularly those that are theory-based. Experience in gender mainstreaming and familiarity with the African development context will be beneficial. Additionally, prior experience evaluating UN programs and projects will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the official languages of the United Nations. A working knowledge of French is also required and will be considered a distinct advantage. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the target countries is an asset that may enhance communication and understanding during the evaluation process.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of 5 months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Candidates are advised to be cautious of any requests for personal banking information during the recruitment process.