Consultant for Documenting Lessons Learned

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to address the challenges faced by communities in disaster and hardship, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on implementing bold solutions to help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. Their mission includes enhancing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, alleviating hunger, and promoting literacy and primary education, particularly through initiatives like the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Child Nutrition Program, which is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to document lessons learned from the management of the supply chain and distribution of food commodities to preschools in Uzbekistan. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support the Preschool Education System Development Concept in the country. The consultant will work closely with the Uzbekistan team, including the Chief of Party (CoP), Deputy Chief of Party (DCoP), Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Manager, and other technical team members. The consultant's role will involve field observations, data collection, and analysis to identify key challenges and successes in the supply chain process. The findings will contribute to the final evaluation of the program and provide actionable insights for future operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for developing a study methodology and relevant protocols, identifying and collecting primary and secondary data, performing a desk review, and conducting qualitative inquiries. They will oversee primary data collection through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), draft the study report, circulate it for feedback, and finalize the report based on stakeholder input. Additionally, the consultant will conduct a debriefing session with the Mercy Corps team at various levels, ensuring that all findings are communicated effectively and utilized for future program improvements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 5-10 years of experience in a relevant technical field, with extensive experience in study design and implementation. Technical knowledge of supply chain management for commodities is essential, and preference will be given to those who have previously worked with USDA. Strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable insights are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or higher in social sciences or related fields is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary theoretical framework and understanding of the social dynamics involved in the project.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 5 years and up to 10 years of relevant experience in the field. This experience should include a strong focus on supply chain management, particularly in the context of food distribution and education programs. Previous work with international organizations or government agencies, especially in similar projects, will be highly regarded.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the consultant will need to communicate effectively with international stakeholders and produce reports in English. Knowledge of Uzbek or Russian would be advantageous, as it would facilitate communication with local teams and stakeholders in Uzbekistan.

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

• The consultant will be required to travel to the field for observations and data collection. This position is part-time and project-based, with a focus on delivering high-quality insights and recommendations based on the findings. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the interview process, and the organization is committed to equal employment opportunities, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment.