Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization established with the mission to create a better world through innovative solutions to complex challenges. The organization operates in more than 40 countries, focusing on disaster relief, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, education, and community development. Mercy Corps partners with local communities to implement programs that foster resilience and self-reliance, aiming to build stronger societies from within. The organization is committed to inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in their initiatives.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position involves documenting lessons learned from the distribution and management of food commodities in preschools across Uzbekistan. The consultant will analyze the supply chain processes, identify challenges and successes, and provide actionable insights to improve future operations. This role requires close collaboration with the Uzbekistan team and stakeholders to gather data and feedback, ensuring that the findings contribute to the final evaluation of the program. The consultant will also be responsible for field observations and data collection, which will inform the overall assessment of the program's effectiveness in enhancing food security and education.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with developing a study methodology, collecting and analyzing both primary and secondary data, and conducting interviews with key informants. Specific duties include:

• Identifying and documenting key challenges, successes, and failures in the supply chain and distribution process.
• Analyzing bottlenecks and inefficiencies in commodity management.
• Verifying compliance with quality standards set by Mercy Corps and the Government of Uzbekistan.
• Assessing stakeholder collaboration and identifying gaps.
• Documenting risk management strategies and adaptations made during the project.
• Developing a comprehensive report that includes data analysis and visual infographics.
• Conducting a debrief with the Mercy Corps team to discuss findings and recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 5-10 years of relevant experience in supply chain management or related fields. Extensive experience in study design and implementation is essential, with a preference for those who have worked with the USDA. Technical knowledge of commodity management and supply chain processes is required. Strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate findings effectively are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or higher in social sciences or a related field is required for this consultancy position. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of supply chain management and program evaluation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in a relevant technical field, with a strong emphasis on study design and implementation. Candidates with experience in managing supply chains for food commodities, particularly in educational settings, will be given preference. Previous work with USDA-funded programs is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Uzbek or Russian is considered an asset. The ability to communicate effectively with local stakeholders and team members is crucial for the success of this consultancy.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for two months, specifically in May and June 202

• The consultant will work closely with the Mercy Corps team in Uzbekistan and will be required to travel to various preschools for field observations. This position is part-time and may involve flexible working hours to accommodate data collection and stakeholder interviews. Compensation details will be discussed during the interview process.