Midterm Performance Evaluation USAID Biodiversity Activity Evaluation Team Leader

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Bixal is a consulting company based in Fairfax, VA, working alongside governments and organizations to help them deliver better services and experiences to the communities they serve. Using evidence-based knowledge and technology, Bixal empowers clients to deliver on their missions more effectively by fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.

Background 

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Learning for Development Activity is a 5-year award led by Bixal Solutions, Inc. that provides USAID/Nepal with technical and advisory services in planning, designing, conducting, and learning from the monitoring and evaluation of the Mission’s strategies, projects, and activities in an efficient manner. USAID Learning for Development supports USAID/Nepal by providing services including a) learning and knowledge management; b) evaluations, study and other studies; c) performance monitoring technical support; d) capacity building; and e) development outreach and communications support. 

Purpose 

USAID Learning for Development seeks to hire a Team Lead evaluation consultant to lead and conduct a Midterm performance evaluation of the USAID Biodiversity Activity, also called Jal Jangal, in Nepal. USAID Biodiversity aims to reduce threats to biological diversity and lessen vulnerabilities worsened by climate change, safeguard aquatic and terrestrial natural resources, and enhance well-being within the four biodiverse landscapes recognized by the Government of Nepal. The activity integrates a whole-of-landscape approach to conserving nature, enhancing communities’ well-being, and safeguarding Nepal’s biodiversity to improve the health of ecosystems, fight environmental crimes, and improve the ability of communities to prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change and recurring natural disasters. USAID Learning for Development is conducting the midterm performance evaluation of USAID Biodiversity.

The purpose of this performance evaluation is to provide USAID/Nepal with an analysis on the effectiveness of the activity in achieving its overall objectives, with a focus on the management and governance achieved by communities and governments at the local level.  Findings from the evaluation will be used to strengthen current activities and plan for future activities.

Roles and Responsibilities 

The Team Leader will be the leader of a broader consultancy team with whom they will work in close coordination. The Team Lead will conduct the evaluation as part of a team, including a Natural Resources Management expert and two evaluation specialists, supported by USAID Learning for Development staff. They will have the overall responsibility of leading the study including study design and methodology, preparation of the inception report, and tool finalization. They will also lead and oversee the evaluation implementation, including data collection, analysis, and report writing. They will serve as the team manager and provide direction to ensure expertise of all consultants is fully included into the design, implementation, and deliverables of the project. The Team Lead will provide high-level technical support, including supporting the development and customization of evaluation documentation that includes interview guides and protocols; managing translation activities; and coordinating logistical support, data collection and analysis. The Team Leader will be responsible for ensuring all deliverables are met in a timely manner and submitted with high-quality. 

Specific Responsibilities of the Team Leader 

·       Provide oversight and leadership for the team consultants, ensuring all expertise is incorporated into the project design, implementation, and deliverables. 

·       Develop a project timeline and oversee direction and time management. 

·       Review USAID Biodiversity activity documents and other relevant documents. 

·       Draft an inception report detailing the evaluation design and work plan, including the evaluation tools, methodology and schedule for data collection. 

·       Prepare data collection tools – including translation - and schedule to ensure a smooth deployment of data collection. 

·       Conduct FGDs and KIIs with relevant stakeholders, program participants, Local Government contact points and USAID staff, which requires travel to Nepal, both in and outside of Kathmandu. 

·       Prepare a preliminary finding report and presentation. 

·       Draft a consolidated evaluation report and deliver a presentation of the overall evaluation to the mission. 

·       Coordinate with the USAID Learning for Development team to ensure high-quality products. 

·       Attending regular check-in meetings with the USAID Learning for Development team. 

Deliverables 

·       Weekly or bi-weekly check-in meeting with the USAID Learning for Development team 

·       Draft and final inception report including evaluation tools and workplan. 

·       Draft initial findings report and presentation slide deck for the Mission. 

·       Conduct a presentation and workshop with USAID and Learning for Development on initial findings 

·       Final Evaluation report and presentation slide deck. 

Knowledge and Qualifications 

·       Master's or other advanced degree in a related field

·       Experience leading and/or evaluating development activities for USAID or other donor agencies, preferably with experience in South or South East Asia

·       Prior experience of leading similar evaluations or assessments required, preferably in Asia

·       Familiarity with environment sector projects, preferably with past experience related to biodiversity. 

·       Demonstrated skills in facilitating participatory processes to interpret and develop recommendations from research 

·       Strong communication skills, management, and writing skills required 

·       The ideal candidate will have excellent oral and written communication skills in English

Timeline, Location, and Level of Effort (LoE) 

The assignment will last from approximately January through June 2025, with an estimated total 50 days of LoE. The assignment will be partially remote, with an anticipated trip required to collect data in Nepal.

Please note that candidates selected may undergo a background investigation and, if applicable, meet eligibility requirements for suitability.

Bixal is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We ensure opportunity without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, national origin, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our organization and beyond.