International Consultant - Evaluation Team Leader

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Position Title: International Consultant - Evaluation Team Leader
Location: Astana
Country: Kazakhstan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every individual has access to sexual and reproductive health services. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls, and it plays a crucial role in addressing issues related to population and development, reproductive health, and gender-based violence. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence, aligning its goals with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).

Job Overview:
The position of Evaluation Team Leader is pivotal in overseeing the design and implementation of the evaluation for the second phase of the UK ISF Project, which aims to strengthen prevention and response to violence against women and girls in Central Asia. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of the UNFPA Evaluation Handbook, which outlines the standards and methodologies for conducting evaluations in line with international best practices. The Evaluation Team Leader will be responsible for ensuring that the evaluation process adheres to the guidelines set forth in the Handbook, coordinating with various stakeholders, including UNFPA Kazakhstan Country Offices, the UK ISF project team, and implementing partners. The evaluation results will not only inform the stakeholders directly involved but also contribute to a broader understanding of the effectiveness of interventions aimed at combating violence against women and girls in the region. The role demands a strategic approach to evaluation, with a focus on producing high-quality deliverables that meet the expectations of all parties involved.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Evaluation Team Leader will be responsible for the overall management of the evaluation process, including the production and timely submission of all deliverables as outlined in the Terms of Reference (ToR). Key responsibilities include leading and coordinating the evaluation team, ensuring the quality of all evaluation outputs, and providing methodological guidance throughout the evaluation phases. The Team Leader will draft and present the design report, as well as the draft and final evaluation reports, and will facilitate meetings with the Evaluation Reference Group (ERG) and Country Offices (COs). Additionally, the Team Leader will serve as a technical expert in one of the thematic areas of the project, contributing to the evaluation's depth and relevance. Communication with the Evaluation Manager is crucial to ensure alignment and clarity throughout the evaluation process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in social sciences, statistics, development studies, or a related field. A minimum of 15 years of experience in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) within the international development sector is required, with at least 10 years of experience leading complex evaluations for UN organizations or other international entities. Demonstrated expertise in one of the thematic areas of the UK ISF Project is essential, along with a strong understanding of Results-Based Monitoring and Evaluation Approaches. Candidates should be adept at applying both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods and maintaining high-quality evaluation standards as defined by UNFPA and UNEG. Experience working with multidisciplinary teams and excellent analytical skills are also necessary.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a Master's degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, statistics, or development studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of evaluation methodologies and the socio-economic factors influencing the project outcomes.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically at least 15 years in monitoring and evaluation roles within international development contexts. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading evaluations for UN agencies or similar organizations, demonstrating their ability to manage complex evaluation processes and deliver high-quality results. Experience in the Central Asia region and familiarity with its national development context will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, while knowledge of Russian is considered an asset. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the preparation of evaluation reports.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be a consultancy role, with a focus on full-time engagement during the evaluation phases. The contract duration may span multiple fiscal years, specifically from 2022 to 2025, aligning with the project timeline. UNFPA promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from individuals of various backgrounds, including women, LGBTQIA+ community members, and persons with disabilities. The organization emphasizes equal opportunities in recruitment and career development.