Mid-Term Reviewer - Palau project (GEFID 10907) and Viet Nam project (GEFID 10906)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and promoting sustainable development within the UN system. The Ecosystems Division works with partners on technical assistance and capacity development. The GEF Biodiversity and Land Degradation Unit manages a large portfolio of projects, serving as an implementing agency for GEF-funded initiatives.

Job Purpose

This role involves conducting a mid-term review for two UNEP GEF projects: one focused on biodiversity conservation and aquaculture in Palau, and another on mainstreaming natural capital assessment for blue economic growth in Viet Nam. The consultant will assess project achievements, identify challenges, and recommend corrective measures. The review will cover project activities, outputs, monitoring, evaluation, resource allocation, and GEF arrangements. The consultant will report to the Task Manager and work under the guidance of the Portfolio Manager, contributing to the effective implementation and outcomes of these critical environmental projects.

Responsibilities

Conduct a mid-term review of two UNEP GEF projects, assessing achievements against objectives and identifying challenges. Develop a review framework in line with UNEP guidelines, including stakeholder analysis and an interview matrix. Undertake desk reviews and in-depth interviews with project staff, partners, and stakeholders. Conduct field missions to Palau and Viet Nam to gather evidence and verify findings. Prepare preliminary findings, draft review reports, and finalize them based on feedback. Ensure reports include an executive summary, detailed analysis, lessons learned, recommendations, and an annotated ratings table. Maintain positive and participatory relationships with stakeholders while ensuring review independence.

Work Experience

At least seven years of technical/evaluation experience is required, preferably including evaluating large, regional, or global programs using a Theory of Change approach. Professional experience in biodiversity conservation within the Asia-Pacific region is mandatory. Experience in GEF Biodiversity projects, the UN system (especially UNEP), aquaculture, and marine/coastal natural capital assessment is desirable.

Skills

Technical/evaluation expertise, project review and assessment, report writing and editing, stakeholder engagement, knowledge of GEF Biodiversity projects, understanding of the UN system (UNEP), experience in biodiversity conservation, aquaculture, and natural capital assessment.

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