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Call for Interest – IFAD is Hiring for a Consultant: Social, Environmental, and Climate Assessment Procedures

Eugen3 weeks ago

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Call for Interest - IFAD is Hiring for a Consultant: Social, Environmental, and Climate Assessment Procedures

Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO) – Rome, Italy (Retainer)

ID: 22372
Location: ROME
Date of Issue: 25/07/2024
Close Date: Open Until Filled
Organizational Unit: Office of Audit & Oversight
Full/Part Time: Part-Time
Regular/Temporary: Temporary
Assignment Duration: To be determined
Grade: C-1

Organizational Setting

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is seeking qualified consultants to serve as the SECAP Complaints Officer (SCO) under the Office of Audit and Oversight (AUO). It is important to note that the consultant role does not constitute staff employment with IFAD, nor is there an expectation of employment, contract extension, or conversion to any other contract type following this consultancy.

IFAD maintains a commitment to equal opportunity employment and actively promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace. The organization does not discriminate against applicants based on ethnicity, social or political background, color, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family size, or sexual orientation.

Candidates should be aware of the potential for fraudulent job offers. IFAD does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and all official communications will originate from email addresses ending with @ifad.org.

Due to budgetary constraints, we will only communicate with candidates who are shortlisted for interviews. If you do not receive a response within three months of your application, please consider it unsuccessful.

Given the varied technical nature of these assignments, IFAD values consultants with diverse skills beyond the minimum requirements.

Applicants responding to this call for interest may undergo an initial screening process, followed by a more comprehensive assessment for those meeting the minimum requirements. Acceptance into IFAD’s Consultants Roster does not guarantee an assignment.

Job Role

General Description of Tasks and Objectives

IFAD recognizes that social, environmental, and climate sustainability are essential for achieving impactful outcomes consistent with its mission. The Social, Environmental, and Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP) is vital for ensuring long-term positive impacts on projects. The SECAP 2021 framework applies to all initiatives that seek IFAD financing and aims to manage risks and impacts while aligning project objectives with priority areas, including environmental sustainability, gender equity, nutrition, youth involvement, and protection of marginalized communities.

Responsibilities

The SCO’s role encompasses oversight of the enhanced complaints procedure (CP), allowing affected parties to express concerns regarding non-compliance with SECAP in a structured manner. This procedure facilitates accountability and aims for sound environmental and social standards, thereby enhancing long-term development outcomes.

The enhanced complaints procedure includes three phases:

Assessment Phase: Providing stakeholders and complainants the opportunity to consult with the SECAP Redress Service to clarify issues and understand the complaints mechanism.
Problem-Solving Process: Utilizing a neutral, collaborative approach to address issues related to the environmental or social impacts of projects, fostering improved outcomes.
Impartial Review Process: Conducting objective assessments of IFAD’s compliance with SECAP and related policies, which include identifying harm done and recommending remedial actions.

As part of this role, the SCO will work closely with the Executive Board and report through the Audit Committee. The position will be set on a non-renewable three-year retainer contract, which may be extended by an additional two years, ensuring that impartiality is maintained by prohibiting prior or future employment with IFAD.

Expected Activities

The Consultant (SCO) will:

Conduct impartial reviews of complaints in an independent and thorough manner.
Prepare the terms of reference for impartial reviews and oversee the selection of qualified experts to assist.
Engage with relevant stakeholders throughout the process.
Coordinate with independent accountability mechanisms if involved in co-financing projects.
Draft and issue review reports for stakeholder feedback and finalize reports for consideration by the Audit Committee.
Collaborate with IFAD Management on proposed remedial actions and monitor their implementation.
Produce an annual report on the operations of the complaints procedure and attend related meetings with the Audit Committee and Executive Board.

Through these activities, the SCO aims to enhance IFAD’s capacity to resolve complaints, improve monitoring and reporting on complaints, and significantly contribute to building staff capabilities regarding the complaints procedures.

Expected Outcomes

By the conclusion of the retainer contract, the consultant is expected to achieve the following outcomes:

Improved resolution of complaints alleged by project-affected parties.
Enhanced monitoring and reporting of SECAP complaints within the organization.
Increased understanding and knowledge among IFAD staff regarding the complaints procedures.

Job Profile Requirements

Qualifications and Skills

Education:

Master’s degree or equivalent in economics, environmental studies, international relations, law, social sciences, or related fields.
A university degree combined with significant experience may be acceptable in lieu of a Master’s degree.

Experience:

A minimum of 20 years of professional experience in relevant fields, with a strong record in interpreting policies and a thorough understanding of compliance and audit techniques.
At least 10 years of international experience, particularly in IFAD borrowing countries.
Knowledge and experience relating to international development, environmental and social safeguards, and the operational frameworks of international financial institutions.
Familiarity with independent accountability mechanisms and grievance redress systems.
Technical knowledge of agricultural practices, climate change, and land acquisition related to IFAD projects is desirable.
Proven analytical skills and the capacity to synthesize information effectively.
A demonstrated ability to engage impartially and objectively, exhibiting strong communication and diplomatic skills.
Experience working within diverse and multicultural environments, showcasing leadership capabilities and the ability to foster consensus.

Languages:

Proficiency in English, with the ability to produce clear and concise reports tailored to diverse audiences.
Proficiency in Arabic, French, or Spanish is highly desirable.

Organizational Competencies (Level 2)

Demonstrating Leadership: Initiate and embody change through leading by example.
Learning and Innovation: Promote a culture of continuous learning and knowledge-sharing.
Client Focus: Cultivate a culture focused on servicing clients effectively.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Tackle complex issues with decisions that impact broader organizational outcomes.
Resource Management: Use time, information, and resources effectively across the organization.
Teamwork: Foster a team-centered working environment.
Communication and Negotiation: Utilize diverse communication skills for effective interactions and negotiations.
Building Partnerships: Develop and maintain strategic partnerships both internally and externally.

This position is anticipated to commence at a date to be determined, with an expected initial working commitment of 10 days, extendable based on needs. The contract may have a duration of three years, with the possibility of an extension up to five years, depending on future requirements.

We invite qualified candidates to express their interest in this consultancy opportunity within IFAD.