Evaluation Specialist for Strategic Evaluation of Communication Dimensions

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity within the United Nations system that addresses environmental issues at both global and regional levels. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UNEP plays a crucial role in keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The organization operates in multiple countries, engaging with various stakeholders to promote sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it has a significant workforce dedicated to achieving these goals.

Job Overview:
The Evaluation Specialist will be part of a team responsible for conducting a strategic evaluation of UNEP's project and programme communication from 2021 to 202

• This role involves assessing the effectiveness of communication strategies and their impact on project outcomes. The evaluation aims to provide evidence for accountability and promote operational improvements, learning, and knowledge sharing. The consultant will work closely with the Evaluation Manager and the Director of the Evaluation Office, ensuring that the evaluation process is participatory and that stakeholders are regularly consulted. The evaluation will culminate in a comprehensive report that outlines findings, lessons learned, and recommendations for enhancing communication dimensions in UNEP projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Evaluation Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks throughout the evaluation process, including: conducting a preliminary desk review and introductory interviews with staff; drafting causal pathways related to project communication; developing detailed methods and analytical tools for the evaluation; preparing an annotated table of contents for the evaluation report; and distributing roles and responsibilities among team members. During the data collection and analysis phase, the specialist will present synthesized findings, conduct interviews with relevant project teams, and ensure the independence and confidentiality of the evaluation process. The reporting phase will involve drafting the Main Evaluation Report, finalizing it based on feedback from the Evaluation Manager, and preparing a Response to Comments annex. Additionally, the specialist will maintain positive relationships with evaluation stakeholders and communicate any issues requiring attention to the Evaluation Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communications, environmental sciences, international development, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of seven years of technical evaluation experience is required, preferably with a focus on large, regional, or global programmes and utilizing a Theory of Change approach. Experience in digital communications is essential, along with a good understanding of media, advocacy, and communication within development-oriented organizations and intergovernmental processes. Knowledge of the UN system and UNEP's work is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as communications, environmental sciences, international development, or political/social sciences. A Bachelor's degree in these areas, combined with additional qualifying experience, may be considered acceptable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of communication in the context of environmental projects and evaluations.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least seven years of relevant experience in technical evaluation, particularly in evaluating large-scale programmes. Experience should include the application of a Theory of Change approach, which is vital for assessing the effectiveness of communication strategies. Familiarity with digital communications is also required, as well as a solid understanding of the media landscape and advocacy efforts within the context of development-oriented organizations and intergovernmental processes.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this consultancy, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French or Spanish is considered desirable, as it enhances communication with a broader range of stakeholders and aligns with the multilingual nature of the UN environment.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a duration of 5 months, with a part-time commitment spread over this period. The Evaluation Specialist will work from home but may be required to conduct field visits as necessary. 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 is committed to maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of the recruitment process.