Sr. M&E Specialist (SECAP)

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and  advocates at the local, national and international level for policies that contribute to rural transformation.

The Programme Management Department (PMD), under the leadership of an Associate Vice-President (AVP), is responsible for the overall programme of loans and grants of the Fund and is composed of five (5) regional divisions and the Operational Policy and Results Division (OPR). 

OPR oversees operational policies and procedures, operational training through corporate learning programmes, compliance with environmental and social safeguards and project procurement policies, and operational performance monitoring and results reporting. It also manages IFAD's self-evaluation architecture, including the interface with the Independent Office of Evaluation (IOE), and the performance-based allocation system (PBAS), and coordinates the drive for enhanced transparency and value for money.  It is also responsible for overseeing corporate databases, including the Operational Results Management System (ORMS) and the Corporate Dashboard. During the project cycle, OPR plays an important role during project design as a secretariat for quality reviews, and is responsible for determining project categorization, including environmental. OPR also plays a pivotal role in coordinating the implementation of commitments emanating from replenishment consultations.

IFAD is also an implementing agency of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the Green Climate Fund (GCF), Least Developed Country Fund and the Special Climate Change Fund. These funds complement IFAD’s baseline activities to further integrate environment and climate change considerations in rural development operations and to channel climate finance to poor smallholders

IFAD’s updated Social, Environmental and Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP) aims to strengthen risk management of projects, contribute to better impact and results on the ground and long-term development impact and sustainability. To this end, the SECAP Compliance Function in OPR is mandated to ensuring that IFAD supported projects conform to sound environmental, social and climate (ESC) standards as laid out in the SECAP and other relevant policies and strategies.

The position is located in the OPR division and the incumbent works under the overall strategic, policy and management guidance the Division Director, and direct supervision of the Lead Advisor, SECAP, and collaborates closely with the OPR Results and Resources Unit Team, in particular the Senior M&E officer in ESA.

The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) is accountable for IFAD core values of integrity, transparency, and equity in the alignment to IFAD's policies and procedures of the division’s programmes and projects.
The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) has a policy direction, supervision and coordination role, providing technical direction and policy guidance. She/he monitors and evaluates consistency, cohesion and synergy in the application of the updated SECAP and provision of programme development support facilitating knowledge flows and building of communities of practices, and manages processes for the assessment and delivery of SECAP capacity development initiatives for IFAD staff, IFAD project personnel and borrowers/recipients/partners. S/he works collaboratively with the Results and Resources Unit, respective OPR staff, and with ECG/SKD technical specialists (both Environment and Climate, and Social Inclusion), PMI thematic Technical Specialists, Regional Divisions, Country teams and staff members across IFAD. 

1. OPERATIONAL DELIVERY AND POLICY ADVICE: The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) supports the Lead Advisor (SECAP) in providing strategic and technical direction in operational delivery and policy support related to the application of SECAP in project/ programme development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation in order to manage environmental, social and climate risks.  The accountabilities may include:
a)    Bringing international best practice approaches and solutions to project/programme level environmental, social and climate safeguards Monitoring and Evaluation to IFAD and contributing substantially to the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures, while ensuring that they evolve together with business needs and frontier issues on monitoring and evaluation. 
b)    Providing advice, guidance and support to practitioners as well as IFAD staff at HQ, divisional and country-office/hub level to interpret operational policies, regulations and rules, and systems related to the application of SECAP during project design and implementation, in order to monitor and evaluate project compliance with SECAP, so that the division supports corporate goals and objectives within the overall Fund mandates and strategies.
c)    Developing appropriate tools and resources for project/programme level monitoring and evaluation in IFAD (e.g. handbooks/guidelines, rosters of experts, assessment frameworks, capacity building and certification programmes, and IT tools).
d)    Providing support to OPR’s efforts to build internal and external capacity through identifying, implementing and coordinating trainings to IFAD staff, consultants, project delivery teams, country management teams and partner institutions.
e)    Leading as focal point for safeguards compliance monitoring and evaluation and key link between corporate, field level and relevant country level results issues.
f)    Developing safeguards monitoring and evaluation criteria for technical components of programmes and projects as required.

2. COMPLIANCE FUNCTION: The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) ensures compliance of IFAD programmes and projects to IFAD policies and SECAP procedures. S/he contributes to the integrity of IFAD’s results focus and proactively recommends, as appropriate, mandatory and preferred changes/adjustments in line with Development Effectiveness Framework and relevant operational policies by 
a)    Ensuring compliance with key operational building-blocks related to SECAP Monitoring and Evaluation and with policies and procedures governing programme management; and 
b)    Working to harmonize and maintain consistency with the IFAD Evaluation Policy and the IFAD Evaluation Manual in relation to country and relevant corporate-level Monitoring and Evaluation of SECAP requirements.

3. CORPORATE MONITORING AND RESULTS REPORTING WITH A FOCUS ON SECAP: The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) supports the Lead Advisor (SECAP) in the monitoring of the Departmental Performance Plan and the budgetary resources under their purview. In the context of IFAD’s self-evaluation architecture, the Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP), in collaboration with the Results and Resources Team, develops tools, and promotes corporate Monitoring and Evaluation reporting culture to ensure effectiveness at the project level by:
a)    Bringing project and programme level SECAP issues to corporate attention.
b)    Leading corporate reporting on operational performance and results, including externally to donors, external organizations and key stakeholders.
c)    Developing corporate safeguards compliance Monitoring and Evaluation guidance, strategy, criteria, systems and tools for technical components of programmes and projects.
d)    Preparing analytical findings and reporting to governing bodies on divisional and country-level performance on Monitoring and Evaluation of the application of SECAP as part of the Fund's development effectiveness framework and Monitoring, Evaluation, Adaptation and Learning (MEAL) Action plan.
e)    Managing regular reporting on the portfolio’s safeguards compliance Monitoring and Evaluation performance for colleagues and senior management.
f)    Working closely with Regional Divisions to develop regionally specific MEAL Action Plans.

4. MANAGERIAL FUNCTIONS: The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) is accountable for integrity, transparency, and equity in the management of IFAD resources. This includes, among others, people management through support to recruitment of technical specialists and technical leadership/capacity development, coaching and mentoring of new and/or more junior staff, supervisory role and evaluation of performance of professionals and general service staff under her/his purview.

5. QUALITY CONTROL AND ASSURANCE: The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) supports the Lead Advisor (SECAP) to provide strategic guidance to the organization in the establishment of a coherent and cutting-edge policy and procedural framework for operations through a unified taxonomy. In this capacity, he/she works across the different OPR teams to ensure appropriate quality of operational policies and procedures, with special attention to interdependencies and policy coherence.  She/he monitors all operational procedures related to safeguarding, and ensures coherent interpretation and application of relevant operational procedures, guidelines and standards across IFAD’s project portfolio. She/he also provides support services across IFAD’s portfolio, ensuring appropriate fiduciary and quality controls, and consistent application of IFAD’s project standards. She/he supports the development and organization of systems and processes for consistently high-quality risk-based reviews of all aspects throughout IFAD’s programming cycle (including country strategy development, project design and supervision, portfolio performance review and completion). 

More specifically, the SeniorM&E Specialist (SECAP) will support strong quality control and assurance regarding SECAP by:
a)    Developing standards, procedures, trainings, guidance, and toolkits. 
b)    Advising project delivery teams and IFAD staff on strategy and range of interventions and provide support for on-going and future work in the SECAP areas.
c)    Conducting Compliance reviews of COSOPs and projects at concept (OSC), final review (DRM) and Quality Assurance Group stages with a view to monitoring and evaluating adherence to SECAP ESC standards and providing clear guidance for the steps needed to be taken by the programme/project teams. 
d)    Providing overall quality assurance across IFAD’s global portfolio of projects where safeguards are triggered and monitor key risks, including working with ECG and regional teams to strengthen SECAP compliance during design and implementation. 
e)    Coordinating and monitoring the implementation the of IFAD’s Enhanced Complaints Procedure, including screening and registering submitted complaints, liaising with relevant staff and divisions to assess complaints, and the problem solving process when applicable.

The key results have an impact on compliance of operations with IFAD rules, regulations and policies, implementation of corporate operational strategies and monitoring and reporting on achievement of results. Assignments require the provision of solid technical expertise and input for the area of her/his responsibility as well as in knowledge sharing with peers and counterparts.  The work goes beyond technical analysis and synthesis to include the development of knowledge products, tools and strategies, evaluation of compliance and lessons learnt and best practices. The work is considered complex requiring in-depth technical knowledge and expertise. S/He is works independently and with authority, and are accountable for the results of her/his work.

The key results have an impact on the overall effectiveness and efficiency in change management of operational policies and procedures to accompany the new organizational architecture and business model for IFAD12 and beyond. Monitoring the application of  SECAP, facilitating problem solving and monitoring IFAD’s Complaints Procedure, and timely and appropriate delivery of services ensures risk management, as well as client satisfaction and overall timely delivery of IFAD programmes and projects.

The work relationships of the SeniorM&E Specialist (SECAP) involve the provision of technical advice and the negotiation and resolution of problems that arise in technical project appraisal or the preparation of studies and reports. In the context of operational delivery and policy support, s/he maintains collaborative working relationships, both within the department, and with other relevant IFAD divisions. Representation is made in internal and external fora in the areas of operational policies, procedures and compliance functions related to monitoring and evaluation of SECAP compliance.  

The Senior M&E Specialist (SECAP) serves as the senior advisor on policy development and compliance. 

Organizational Competencies:

Level 2:

• Building relationships and partnerships - Builds and maintains strategic partnerships internally and externally
• Communicating and negotiating - Acquires & uses a wide range of communication styles & skills
• Demonstrating leadership - Leads by example; initiates and supports change
• Focusing on clients - Contributes to a client-focused culture
• Learning, sharing knowledge and innovating - Challenges, innovates & contributes to learning culture
• Managing performance and developing staff - Manages wider teams with greater impact on others and on the organization
• Managing time, resources and information - Coordinates wider use of time, information and/or resources
• Problem-solving and decision-making - Solves complex problems and makes decisions that have wider corporate impact
• Strategic thinking and organizational development - Staff in management and/or strategic leadership roles
• Team working - Fosters a cohesive team environment

Education:

Education includes Advanced university degree from an accredited institution listed on https://whed.net/home.php in Law, public procurement, public administration, environment, social development or related field is required (*):
(*) Note:  For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in line with the provisions set forth in the IFAD’s Human Resources Implementing Procedures. 

Experience:

• At least eight (8) years of progressively responsible professional experience in, and demonstrated understanding of, initiatives in the field of specialization.  An advanced university degree may be substituted by a first university degree (Bachelor or equivalent) plus at least four additional years of relevant professional experience, over and above the minimum number of years of experience.

• Two (2) years in a multi-cultural organization or national organization providing support on a global scope.

  Position-specific:

• At least 5 years of relevant international experience in monitoring and evaluating performance in environmental, social and climate safeguard systems. Monitoring and managing SECAP related evaluation processes and methodologies, carrying out Programme/Project evaluation in relation to SECAP compliance, Impact evaluation, Corporate-level evaluation of SECAP compliance.

Languages:

• English (4 - Excellent)
• French (4 - Excellent)
• Desirable: Spanish or Arabic 

Skills:

• Data management: Data collection, cleaning, transformation and consolidation; data-base architecture & development; data presentation
• Risk management (e.g. reputational): Identification and assessment of potential liabilities and risks in IFAD's activities, particularly vis-à-vis third parties; ability to handle risks via contingency and mitigation strategies
• Time management: Adherence to deadlines under time constraints and pressure (e.g. to deliver governing body documents on time); ability to coordinate and manage complex workflows and in-house and external teams
• Adaptability: Adaptability and flexibility when facing new or unexpected situations, and to specific constraints and circumstances and managing complex processes
• Business acumen, private sector knowledge: Outstanding ability to synthesize and simplify complex technical information for a variety of (non-technical) audiences
• Interpersonal skills: Ability to deal patiently and tactfully with others (e.g. visitors, clients, callers, etc.), including senior individuals (e.g. high-level meeting participants)
• Leadership: Group thought leader, sought out by others and providing mentorship and effective guidance to others; Ability to build trust, inside and outside the organization by acting as a role model for IFAD's core values and competencies, and to provide a clear sense of direction, mentorship and effective guidance to the team, strategizing the IFAD's goals, giving the vision, empowering the team and ensuring a positive environment for all.
• Written communication: Clear, succinct and convincing written communication in the language needed for specific role; highly professional, balanced and diplomatic language (e.g. for drafting of position papers, briefings, etc.)
• Evidence-based policy: Know-how in the formulation of concrete and actionable policy recommendations based on hard evidence (going beyond simple data interpretation)
• Social & Environmental Safeguards: Know-how in Social & Environmental complianc as specified in the IFAD's Social, Environmental and Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP)

IFAD staff members are international civil servants subject to the authority of the President of IFAD. In accordance with IFAD's Human Resources Policy, the President can decide to assign them to any of the activities of the Fund. All International Professional staff members are required to be geographically mobile and positions in the professional category are subject to changes in location at any time in line with strategic priorities and reform initiatives in IFAD.

In the interest of making most cost-effective use of funds and resources, we are only able to respond to applicants who are short-listed for interview. Candidates who do not receive any feedback within three months should consider their application unsuccessful. Candidates may be required to take a written test and to deliver a presentation as well as participate in interviews.

IFAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic, social or political background, colour, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family size or sexual orientation.

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