Mid-Term Review Expert

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 been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus and keeping the global environment under review. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental issues, making it a pivotal organization in the global effort to address environmental challenges. UNEP’s Ecosystems Division collaborates with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policies, thereby strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and those with economies in transition. The GEF Biodiversity and Land Degradation Unit, part of UNEP, oversees more than 200 projects globally, focusing on biodiversity and land degradation issues, and plays a crucial role in implementing projects funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Job Overview:
The Mid-Term Review (MTR) Expert will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the project titled 'GEF Enhancing Land Management and Strengthening Ecosystem Resilience for Integrated Landscape Restoration and Climate-Resilient Food Systems in Carriacou, Grenada.' This project aims to address land degradation in Carriacou through ecosystem-based landscape restoration and sustainable land management practices. The consultant will analyze the project's progress, identify challenges, and recommend corrective actions to ensure the project meets its intended outcomes. The MTR will assess the project's relevance, effectiveness, and efficiency, and evaluate the likelihood of achieving sustainability in its outcomes. The consultant will work closely with project staff and stakeholders, conducting interviews and field assessments to gather data and insights necessary for the review. The position requires a strong understanding of environmental management and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to ensure a participatory review process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks throughout the review process. In the inception phase, they will conduct a preliminary desk review, engage in introductory interviews with project staff, prepare a review framework aligned with UNEP's evaluation guidelines, identify stakeholders, develop an interview matrix, plan the review schedule, and prepare an Inception Report. During the data collection and analysis phase, the consultant will conduct further desk reviews, data analysis, and in-depth interviews with project implementing and executing agencies, partners, and stakeholders. They will also undertake a field assessment mission lasting approximately seven days, which may include visits to project sites. Regular reporting to the Task Manager on progress and any potential issues encountered will be essential. In the reporting phase, the consultant will draft the Main Review Report, ensuring it is coherent and consistent with the Terms of Reference and Task Manager guidelines. They will liaise with the Task Manager to address comments received and finalize the Review Report, including preparing a Response to Comments annex. Maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders throughout the review process is crucial, as is timely communication with the Task Manager regarding any issues requiring attention.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in environmental sciences, international development, or a related field in political or social sciences. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience in the relevant field may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of seven years of technical and evaluation experience is required, preferably with a focus on large, regional, or global programs and utilizing a Theory of Change approach. A solid understanding of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) and the national implementation context is desirable, as is familiarity with the UN system and UNEP's work. Professional experience in Latin America and the Caribbean, 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. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience in the relevant field to be considered eligible. This educational background ensures that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of the environmental issues at hand.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of relevant technical and evaluation experience. This experience should preferably include evaluating large-scale programs and applying a Theory of Change approach. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the Sustainable Land Management (SLM) context and have experience working within the UN system, particularly with UNEP. Experience in the Latin America and Caribbean region, specifically related to natural resource management and biodiversity conservation, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this consultancy position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language within the UN system. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication with stakeholders and ensure the consultant can produce high-quality reports and documentation.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based, with the possibility of field visits to project sites. The expected duration of the consultancy is four months. The consultant will report to the GEF Task Manager based in Panama City and will work under the overall guidance of the Chief of the Unit located in Nairobi. 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.