Consultant for Women Artisans of Change (WeACe) Project

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 by the United Nations General Assembly as the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. The organization was created as part of the UN reform agenda, merging resources and mandates from four previously distinct parts of the UN system that focused on gender equality and women's empowerment. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization has a significant presence in various countries, including India, where its Country Office in New Delhi works to accelerate gender equality and women's empowerment through strategic partnerships, technical and policy advisory services, and advocacy with governmental, inter-governmental, and civil society partners. UN Women is committed to addressing the challenges faced by women, particularly in areas such as entrepreneurship, where traditional mindsets and limited economic opportunities have historically marginalized women. The organization aims to promote women's entrepreneurship as a means of empowerment and well-being, recognizing the potential of women artisans in sectors like handicrafts, textiles, and block printing, which have deep cultural roots in India.

Job Overview:
The consultant for the Women Artisans of Change (WeACe) project will play a crucial role in supporting the daily activities of the project aimed at empowering women artisans engaged in block printing. Under the direct supervision of the Programme Analyst (WEE), the consultant will be responsible for managing program activities and coordinating with relevant team members, including operations teams, implementing partner organizations, and government officials. The consultant will provide technical support for the implementation of the WeACe program, which includes collaborating with the Ministry of Textiles and other nodal departments to ensure successful program execution related to skilling, entrepreneurship, and market linkages. The consultant will also identify new market opportunities for women artisans, mobilize companies for entrepreneurial expansion, and connect artisans to relevant fairs and e-commerce platforms. The role requires systematic coordination between UN Women and the Ministry of Textiles, preparation of performance reports, and conducting assessments and monitoring of the program. The consultant will also facilitate training workshops, advocacy seminars, and fashion shows to showcase the products developed through the project, thereby enhancing market access for women artisans.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to:

• Providing technical support for the implementation of the WeACe program.
• Coordinating with the Ministry of Textiles and other relevant departments to ensure successful program implementation.
• Identifying entrepreneurial and new market opportunities for women artisans and connecting them to relevant schemes and financial institutions.
• Mobilizing companies and connections to expand the entrepreneurial work of women artisans.
• Connecting women artisans to relevant fairs and e-commerce platforms to enhance their market reach.
• Supporting the convergence of the program with other relevant departments, schemes, and programs.
• Facilitating systematic coordination between UN Women and the Ministry of Textiles.
• Preparing briefing notes and updates on the status of women artisans.
• Conducting assessments and monitoring of the program's effectiveness. 1
• Supporting districts in preparing gender-responsive skill development plans and programs. 1
• Preparing monthly performance reports and donor reports for the program. 1
• Performing any other duties assigned by supervisors as needed.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in Social Sciences or Development Studies, with at least 2 years of progressive experience in the area of textiles or working with government agencies. A degree in a management-related field will be considered an asset. The consultant should possess good program management, monitoring, and evaluation skills, as well as the ability to create, edit, and present information in clear formats. Knowledge of the technical area and the ability to identify and analyze trends and opportunities are also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold at least a bachelor's degree in Social Sciences or Development Studies. A degree in a management-related field is advantageous. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the position, particularly in relation to textiles and government agency collaboration.

Experience:
The consultant should have at least 2 years of experience in coordination and capacity building. Experience working within the UN system is considered an asset, and familiarity with government departments or ministries will be advantageous. The level of experience should demonstrate the ability to effectively manage program activities and engage with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of Hindi. Knowledge of other UN official working languages is considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is a consultancy role with specific deliverables expected throughout the year, including the development of notes on relevant schemes, databases for market linkages, training workshops, and advocacy seminars. The consultant is expected to use their own computer equipment, as the office will not provide any. Travel and DSA will be booked and settled as per SSA norms directly by UN Women. The evaluation and selection process will include criteria such as required degree and qualifications, relevant experience, and knowledge of working with national or state government. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history.