UN International Consultant for Strategic Design and Development of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries worldwide, with a focus on sustainable development, human rights, and humanitarian assistance. The organization employs thousands of individuals across diverse fields, working collaboratively to achieve its goals and support member states in their development efforts.

Job Overview:
The position of UN International Consultant for Strategic Design and Development of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) is crucial for the UN Country Team (UNCT) in Mongolia. The consultant will play a pivotal role in guiding the development of the UNSDCF for the period 2028-2032, which serves as a strategic instrument for the UN development system at the country level. This role involves providing strategic planning, facilitation, and technical expertise throughout the key stages of the UNSDCF development process. The consultant will ensure that the process is coherent, participatory, and evidence-based, aligning with both UN standards and national priorities. The consultant's work will focus on addressing Mongolia's interconnected development challenges, including economic transformation, climate vulnerability, and social inequalities, thereby contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks as part of the UNSDCF preparation process. These include: 1) Preparation and Technical Support for Strategic Prioritization Process: The consultant will assist in identifying and prioritizing strategic areas of focus for the UNSDCF, ensuring alignment with national development goals and the SDGs. 2) Facilitation of Strategic Prioritization and Theory of Change Workshop: The consultant will lead a workshop that requires a one-week in-country mission to Mongolia, facilitating discussions among stakeholders to develop a shared understanding of strategic priorities and the Theory of Change. 3) Development of UNSDCF Theory of Change: The consultant will create a Theory of Change that serves as the analytical foundation for the UNSDCF, outlining how the strategic priorities will lead to desired outcomes and impacts. The consultant will work closely with the UN Resident Coordinator, the Head of RCO / UNSDCF coordination lead, and other key stakeholders throughout this process.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this consultancy position should possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as development studies, economics, public policy, international relations, social sciences, or strategic planning. Additionally, the candidate must have at least 10 years of professional experience in strategic planning, sustainable development, policy analysis, or development cooperation. Demonstrated experience in supporting the preparation of UNSDCFs or equivalent national development strategies is essential. The candidate should also have proven experience in facilitating high-level workshops involving governments, UN agencies, and development partners, as well as a strong understanding of UN Development System reform and UNSDCF methodology. Experience working in Asia-Pacific contexts is desirable, along with strong skills in Theory of Change development, results-based management, strategic prioritization processes, and multi-stakeholder consultation facilitation.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields related to development studies, economics, public policy, international relations, social sciences, or strategic planning. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of sustainable development and the strategic planning processes involved in the UNSDCF.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in relevant areas such as strategic planning, sustainable development, policy analysis, or development cooperation. Candidates should have substantial experience in supporting the preparation of UNSDCFs or similar national development strategies, as well as facilitating high-level workshops that engage various stakeholders, including government officials and UN agencies. Experience in applying systems thinking and integrated development analysis is also important, particularly in the context of the Asia-Pacific region.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is essential for facilitating workshops and drafting strategic documents. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local stakeholders or contributes to the inclusivity of the UNSDCF development process.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based, with an expected duration from September 1, 2026, to November 20, 202

• The consultant will be required to undertake one week of in-country mission travel to Mongolia as part of the strategic prioritization and Theory of Change workshop facilitation. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable selection process.