Terminal Review Expert - Sustainable Land Management

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass a diverse workforce of thousands of employees across various countries, working collaboratively to address pressing environmental issues. UNEP operates in over 150 countries, focusing on areas such as climate change, sustainable development, and biodiversity conservation, among others. Its mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action.

Job Overview:
The Terminal Review Expert will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive assessment of the project titled 'GEF Sustainable Land Management in the Commonwealth of Dominica.' This project aims to assist Dominica in establishing effective landscape-level planning and coordination frameworks to support sustainable agriculture and watershed management. The consultant will engage with project counterparts to evaluate the overall achievements and challenges faced during the project implementation. The role requires a thorough understanding of the project’s objectives, methodologies, and outcomes, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. The consultant will work closely with the UNEP Ecosystems Division and the GEF Biodiversity and Land Degradation Unit, which oversees numerous projects globally, ensuring that the review process is participatory while maintaining independence.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks throughout the review process, including:

• Inception Phase: Conducting a preliminary desk review and introductory interviews with project staff, preparing the review framework in accordance with UNEP's evaluation guidelines, identifying stakeholders, developing an interview/questions matrix, planning the review schedule, and preparing the Inception Report.
• Data Collection and Analysis Phase: Conducting further desk reviews, data analysis, and in-depth interviews with project implementing and executing agencies, partners, and stakeholders. This phase will also include a field assessment mission lasting approximately 7 days, with potential visits to project sites. The consultant will regularly report to the Task Manager on progress and any issues encountered.
• Reporting Phase: Drafting the Main Review Report, ensuring coherence and consistency with the Terms of Reference and Task Manager guidelines. The consultant will liaise with the Task Manager regarding comments received and finalize the Review Report, addressing all feedback until approval is granted.
• Managing Relations: Maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders to ensure a participatory review process while preserving independence and promptly communicating any issues requiring attention to the Task Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in environmental sciences, international development, or a relevant political or social sciences area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience in the required field may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, at least seven years of evaluation experience is required, preferably including evaluations of large, regional, or global programs and utilizing a Theory of Change approach. A good understanding of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) and the national implementation context is desirable, along with a working knowledge of the UN system and UNEP's operations. Professional experience in Latin America and the Caribbean region, particularly in natural resource management and biodiversity conservation, is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in environmental sciences, international development, or other relevant fields is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have two additional years of qualifying experience in the relevant field, demonstrating the ability to perform the required tasks effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of evaluation experience, with a preference for candidates who have evaluated large, regional, or global programs. Experience using a Theory of Change approach in evaluations is essential. Familiarity with the Sustainable Land Management context and the UN system, particularly UNEP's work, is highly desirable. Professional experience in the Latin America and Caribbean region, specifically related to natural resource management and biodiversity conservation, will be considered a strong asset.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this consultancy position. Additionally, knowledge of French is beneficial, as both English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication with stakeholders and ensure the successful completion of the review process.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based with the possibility of field visits. The expected duration of the consultancy is four 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 does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.