Call for Expression of Interest for a Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist
Background:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is a multilateral financing mechanism established to support climate action in the Caribbean and, by extension, developing countries. In fulfilling its mandate, the GCF responds to climate change through strategic investments in actions that will result in low-emission and climate-resilient development. These strategic investments will limit or reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in developing countries and help vulnerable societies adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change. Several windows for financing and technical support for a programmatic approach are available to engage the GCF for the implementation of climate actions. These include funding windows for mitigation and adaptation, the Private Sector Facility, the Readiness and Preparatory Support Program, a REDD+ results-based payment program, and an Enhanced Direct Access Program designed to enhance funding access by sub-national, national, regional, public, and private entities.
In 2018, the GCF accredited the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) as a national Direct Access Entity. This role requires PACT to take on several responsibilities associated with the delivery of impactful projects within the priorities of the Fund, of PACT, and of Belize’s National Climate Change Policy & Plan, and related frameworks. In collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development (MED), Belize’s National Designated Authority (NDA) to the GCF, PACT has received approval for financing under a Readiness and Preparatory Support Project titled, “Strengthening technical and institutional capacities of Galen University, BLPA, PACT, BNPAS and the Government of Belize to access Climate Finance.”
This project is to be executed over an 18-month implementation period. This project will contribute to reducing the vulnerability to the impacts of climate change in Belize by facilitating the coherent integration of climate change adaptation into the public sector, programs, and projects within the country. Belize will create partnerships with the public sector to build resilient livelihoods and minimize climate vulnerabilities of communities; and conserve and increase the resilience of the agriculture sector, academia, NGOs, Government, and within Belize in general.
Purpose of Assignment
The purpose of this assignment is to engage a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist to enhance and upgrade PACT’s M&E systems to a MEL system. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing, revising, and updating the existing M&E framework to ensure Learning components are added and that it effectively measures program outcomes, incorporates risk categorization and screening, and aligns with PACT’s strategic objectives.
PACT is committed to upgrading its M&E framework to a MEL framework to better assess the effectiveness and impact of its programs. The current M&E framework requires a comprehensive review and enhancement to ensure it meets the evolving needs of the organization and its stakeholders. This assignment aims to replace the current M&E framework with a robust MEL system that facilitates data-driven decision-making and accountability while effectively managing risks.
Scope of Work
The Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist will undertake the following tasks:
1. Inception Report and Work Plan
• Develop an Inception Report that outlines the methodology, work plan, and timeline for the consultancy. This report will include an approach to integrate learning processes into the revised framework, ensuring a smooth transition from a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework to a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) framework.
2. Comprehensive Review of Existing Monitoring and Evaluation Framework
• Conduct a thorough assessment of the current M&E framework, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, including processes for capturing and applying lessons learned, based on best practices and partnership agreements and commitments of PACT.
3. Revise Indicator Framework
• Revise and update the current Monitoring and Evaluation framework, including a revamping of the indicator framework.
4. Technical Guidelines for Indicator Development
• Develop clear technical guidelines for indicator development, framework assessment, and integration into governance and program review.
5. Guidelines for Evaluations
• Establish clear guidelines for evaluations that incorporate best practice evaluation criteria: relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, impact, and sustainability.
6. Learning Component Integration
• Develop a dedicated learning component as part of the revised framework. This component will outline clear processes for capturing, documenting, and applying lessons learned, including mechanisms for sharing knowledge.
7. Risk Documentation
• Integrate risk analysis as a component of the Monitoring and Evaluation framework by adding a Risk Management and Monitoring section in the framework.
8. Drafting the Revised MEL Framework
• Gather and analyze relevant data to inform the development of a MEL framework that incorporates updated indicators, methodologies, and reporting mechanisms.
9. Validation Workshop
• Conduct a validation workshop with key stakeholders to present the draft revised MEL framework. Gather feedback for further refinement.
10. Training on Improved MEL Framework
• Develop training materials and conduct training sessions for PACT staff on the revised M&E framework to ensure effective implementation.
11. Finalization of the MEL Framework
• Revise the draft based on feedback received during the validation workshop. Finalize the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning framework ensuring it aligns with PACT’s strategic goals.
12. Consultancy Closure Report
• Prepare a Consultancy Closure Report summarizing activities undertaken, key findings, recommendations for future improvements, and an evaluation of training effectiveness.
Professional Qualification and Experience Requirements
Candidates must possess a:
- Master’s in Monitoring and Evaluation, Project Management or any related field, with a focus on environmental, social and gender safeguards or relevant field; with at least 3 years of experience in results framework and MEL design and implementation
- A minimum of 5+ experience working with Monitoring & Evalution and associated processes, including but not limited to Policy Development, Environmental and Social Assessment and Risk Management, Gender and Women Studies or related discipline will be an asset.
- A minimum of 3+ years’ professional experience in developing training programs with a gender, environmental/social and climate change focus at the national level.
Knowledge (not required but considered an asset)
- Good knowledge of concepts and frameworks for monitoring and evaluation and results-based measurement.
- Experience in indicator development, data collection and analysis, data quality assessments, and/or performance monitoring and reporting.
- Experience in conducting Training in managing for development results
- Working knowledge of general guidelines and procedures of international multilateral donors
- Working knowledge of the GCF, Adaptation Fund, or other Global Funding Agencies
- Strong understanding of the economic, social, and environmental issues facing Belize would be an advantage.
Skill Requirements
- Advanced level of computing literacy (Microsoft Office applications preferred)
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Excellent organizational and planning skills
- Excellent analytical skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Excellent decision making and problem-solving skills
Expression of Interest
Candidates should present their signed expression of interest that responds to the requirements of this Terms of Reference, accompanied by Curriculum Vitae, Technical and Financial Proposal, copies of academic certificates, current police record, and list of two recent professional references (names and contact information only) no later than 5:00 pm on January 24th, 2025. The package should be addressed to:
Mr. Radin Santos
Procurement Officer
Protected Areas Conservation Trust
Re: Expression of Interest – M&E Specialist and Training Services
Soft Copies should be sent via email to:
procurementofficer@pactbelize.org and projectcoordinator@pactbelize.org
###
PACT is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against protected characteristics (gender, age, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, disability).
PACT is not liable for any costs incurred by applicants in submission of their application.