Consultant for Baseline Evaluation

Job Posting Organization:
The organization responsible for this job posting is the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include over 173 member states and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, ensuring that the rights of migrants are respected and that they can contribute to the development of their communities. IOM is committed to addressing the challenges of migration and providing support to vulnerable populations, particularly in the context of climate change and conflict.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the baseline evaluation of a project aimed at enhancing the resilience of vulnerable populations in Madagascar against climate change-related conflicts and violence. This project, which is a collaborative effort involving UNICEF, UNESCO, and IOM, seeks to address the multifaceted challenges faced by communities affected by environmental shocks such as cyclones, floods, and droughts. The consultant will be responsible for designing standardized tools and methodologies for data collection, translating project objectives into measurable indicators, and conducting both qualitative and quantitative analyses. The evaluation will serve as a foundation for assessing the project's impact over time, focusing on improving resource management, community trust, and local governance. The consultant will work closely with local stakeholders and ensure that the evaluation process is inclusive and participatory, thereby fostering community engagement and ownership of the project outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include:

• Designing standardized tools and methodologies for baseline data collection in consultation with UNICEF, IOM, and UNESCO.
• Translating the project's logical framework into appropriate data requirements.
• Collecting and analyzing secondary data related to the project's objectives and indicators.
• Conducting primary data collection in targeted project sites across the specified districts and communes.
• Analyzing and interpreting collected data to produce a comprehensive baseline report.
• Developing monitoring tools (e.g., follow-up surveys) to adequately measure project outcomes and objectives.
• Sharing key findings and insights with project staff and stakeholders through consultations and presentations.
• Producing an initial report outlining the understanding of the mandate, necessary data collection tools, and proposed vision for data collection and analysis.
• Submitting a fieldwork implementation plan for project team review before commencing data collection. 1
• Delivering a preliminary report with baseline data on all indicators of the logical framework, along with relevant observations. 1
• Finalizing the baseline report incorporating feedback from the project team and key stakeholders. 1
• Providing a set of monitoring tools for the project team to accurately measure results and track progress against baseline levels.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate must possess a strong background in research and evaluation methodologies, particularly in the context of migration management and climate change. They should have a proven track record of conducting baseline surveys or evaluations for technical assistance projects, as well as experience in monitoring and evaluating capacity-building initiatives. A deep understanding of climate issues, migration dynamics, and conflict-related challenges in the targeted districts is essential. The candidate should also demonstrate the ability to produce analytical reports and actionable recommendations for development projects, along with experience liaising with government and civil society stakeholders. Familiarity with the United Nations system and other international organizations is an advantage, as are excellent analytical and communication skills, and proficiency in computer applications.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a master's degree or equivalent in statistics, social sciences, development studies, international affairs, economics, or a related field, along with four years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in one of the aforementioned fields with five years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. This educational background ensures that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively carry out the evaluation tasks.

Experience:
The consultant should have substantial experience in conducting baseline surveys or evaluations for technical assistance projects, particularly in the context of climate change, peacebuilding, and migration management. They should have a demonstrated understanding of the specific challenges faced by communities in Madagascar, particularly in the regions of Androy and Atsimo Andrefana. Experience in field studies and contextual analyses in Madagascar is crucial, as is the ability to produce analytical reports and actionable recommendations for development projects. The consultant should also have a solid track record of engaging with government and civil society stakeholders, ensuring that the evaluation process is inclusive and participatory.

Languages:
Fluency in French and Malagasy is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and for conducting data collection activities. Proficiency in English is also desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy will require travel to key regions in Madagascar, specifically in the Androy and Atsimo Andrefana regions, to conduct consultations with local stakeholders and gather field data. Payment will be based on the technical and financial proposal submitted by the consultant or consulting firm. The consultant must adhere to IOM's values of inclusion, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy throughout the evaluation process. Additionally, any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation, and the appointment will require certification of medical fitness, residency verification, and necessary government authorizations. IOM provides coverage for occupational accidents and illnesses but does not cover non-occupational medical insurance.