| Introduction :
Dear Candidate, The Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is undertaking an Evaluation of UNDP support to Ecosystem Management and Biodiversity Conservation, as planned in its multiyear work programme (2022-2025). UNDP’s strategic plan emphasizes the critical role that nature plays in economic growth, societal well-being, and the health of people and the planet. A significant proportion of UNDP’s nature portfolio involves ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation initiatives. This is the first global independent evaluation of UNDP environmental support since 2011, and the first IEO evaluation with an in depth focus on UNDP’s support for ecosystems and biodiversity. The evaluation will cover UNDP programmes delivered from 2014 onwards. Greater attention will be given to UNDP programmes delivered between 2018-2023 (covering the past and current Strategic Plan when UNDP formulated its environmental initiatives under Signature Solution 4) and will consider UNDP strategies and programming aimed at accelerating the implementation of global, national and local measures to promote healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. The evaluation will inform UNDP’s current and future work in this area, enabling organizational learning to enhance UNDP contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals and several international and regional environmental conventions. It forms a part of UNDP’s accountability towards its Executive Board, development partners, and local populations by assessing the relevance and results of the organization's support. We currently seek a consultant to support this evaluation in the area for the position of Global Thematic Lead/Chief Expert. The Global Lead will help and ensure that the evaluation design, content and analysis reflect key priorities and best practices in the environmental sector, and that the evaluation leads to recommendations that help further UNDP’s support to ecosystem management and biodiversity. Please find the Terms of Reference in the documents part of the Negotiation. We look forward to your interest. Best regards, IEO Procurement | 
