Individual Consultant to Assess the Feasibility of Alternative Homegrown School Feeding Models

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization that focuses on food policy and its implications on global security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of experts dedicated to improving food systems and policies. The organization aims to provide evidence-based research and policy solutions to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition worldwide, working closely with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Consultant involves conducting a comprehensive mixed-methods study aimed at evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of home-grown school feeding models in Guatemala. The consultant will be responsible for gathering and analyzing data related to existing school feeding models, assessing their implementation, and identifying potential improvements. This role requires a deep understanding of local supply chains, agricultural policies, and stakeholder engagement in the context of school feeding programs. The consultant will work both remotely and in-person in Guatemala, conducting interviews and focus group discussions to gather qualitative data that will inform the study's findings and recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key activities, including:

• Conducting a desk review to compile and analyze peer-reviewed and grey literature on school feeding models in Guatemala over the past 5-10 years.
• Reviewing government documents to gather information on national and local guidelines, action plans, and policies related to school feeding.
• Analyzing agricultural guidelines and policies that affect smallholder farmers and local procurement mechanisms.
• Identifying and compiling a list of key stakeholders involved in school feeding initiatives in Guatemala.
• Conducting 5-10 in-depth interviews with these stakeholders to gather qualitative insights.
• Facilitating 4-6 focus group discussions to engage stakeholders in dialogue about school feeding models.
• Preparing and submitting deliverables, including reports and transcripts, in both Spanish and English, adhering to IFPRI's templates and standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in public health, international development, public policy, nutrition, economics, social science, or a closely related field. They should have demonstrated experience in conducting desk and policy reviews, as well as qualitative research methods. Proficiency in written Spanish is essential, along with the ability to multi-task, meet deadlines, and manage time effectively. Attention to detail and accuracy in work are critical, as is the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as public health, international development, public policy, nutrition, economics, or social science is required for this position. This educational background ensures that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to conduct the research effectively.

Experience:
The consultant should have prior experience in conducting desk reviews and policy analyses, as well as qualitative research methods. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of school feeding programs and for engaging effectively with stakeholders in Guatemala.

Languages:
Proficiency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will need to conduct interviews and prepare reports in Spanish. Additionally, proficiency in English is also required, as deliverables can be submitted in either language. Knowledge of other languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to require approximately 25 days of work, with the timeline set for August to September 202

• All deliverables must be submitted by September 30, 202
• The position is remote, with some in-person work required in Guatemala. Candidates are encouraged to submit an updated CV and, if available, an example of relevant technical work. This role is ideal for individuals who are self-motivated and can work independently while managing multiple tasks.