International Advisor on Project Performance

**Project:** Employment Support Project

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population toward the cost of the Employment Support Project

Position/Title: International Advisor on Project performance

Project/Office: Employment Support Project (ESP) under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population

Project Implementation Unit:

The PIU will be responsible for the procurement, financial management, social and environmental requirements, as well as monitoring and regularly reporting on the implementation of the three components, in compliance with World Bank fiduciary and reporting requirements.

Scope of work:

The Consultant will carry out the following:

1. Support and oversee survey activities

• Provide technical guidance and quality assurance for the design, planning, and implementation of surveys and related data collection activities under the Project, including sampling approaches, instruments, fieldwork protocols, and data validation.
• Review and provide comments on survey methodologies and tools prepared by implementing or research entities prior to their finalization and use.
• Monitor progress of survey implementation, identify risks and bottlenecks, and propose practical measures to improve data quality, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness.

1. Assist in preparing performance reports

• Support the PIU and relevant entities in preparing relevant reports, including the final Project report, with a focus on accuracy, internal consistency, and alignment with the Project Results Framework and World Bank requirements.
• Review and edit draft reports and related documentation to improve the clarity of analysis, the correct use of data, and the formulation of evidence-based findings and recommendations.
• Advise on the presentation of key results (tables, figures, dashboards, narratives) to facilitate management decision-making and communication with stakeholders.

1. Support preparation of the Project Operations Manual

• Assist the PIU in preparing and updating the Project Operations Manual, ensuring consistency with the Financing Agreement and World Bank guidelines.
• Contribute to the definition and documentation of operational processes, roles and responsibilities, internal controls, and reporting lines to support effective project implementation.
• Provide recommendations to simplify procedures, reduce implementation risks, and strengthen alignment between operational arrangements and the Project’s results orientation.

1. Support monitoring and evaluation reporting

• Provide technical support in structuring and implementing monitoring and evaluation (M&E) reporting for the Project, including indicator definitions, data sources, reporting templates, and timelines.
• Review M&E data and draft M&E reports to ensure data quality, correct aggregation, and meaningful interpretation of results against baselines and targets.
• Advise the PIU on how to use M&E findings for adaptive management, including identification of implementation issues and adjustments to work plans and activities.

1. Deliver training on project operations and M&E

• Design and deliver targeted training sessions, workshops, and on-the-job coaching for PIU staff and relevant counterparts on project operations (including application of the Project Operations Manual), M&E, and other relevant topics.
• Prepare concise training materials, guidance notes, and practical tools to support day-to-day implementation and results-based management.
• Provide follow-up support to reinforce learning and promote the institutionalization of improved operational and M&E practices.

1. Provide implementation advice to the PIU and National Observatory

• Offer strategic and operational advice to the PIU on implementation planning, sequencing of activities, risk identification and mitigation, and coordination with implementing partners.
• Provide methodological and practical guidance to the National Observatory in applying survey results and analytical work to strengthen labor market monitoring and Project-related work.
• Participate, as requested, in key meetings with the PIU, National Observatory, and other stakeholders to discuss progress, address implementation challenges, and agree on follow-up actions.
• Prepare policy briefs, notes, and other material as requested by the PIU director.

Minimum requirements to become an eligible candidate for the International Advisor on Project performance:

• Master’s degree or higher in Social Sciences, Economics, Law, Public Policy, Statistics, or a related field.
• Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible experience in designing, managing, and delivering large-scale social or development research projects, preferably with international organizations or multilateral donors.
• Demonstrated experience managing World Bank, UN, or similar donor-funded projects is highly desirable.
• Track record in conducting M&E and Learning, strong understanding of research methodologies, Results Based Management, and analysis and reporting.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, oversee quality assurance, and manage budgets and timelines effectively.
• At least 5 years of experience working on projects in Azerbaijan in complex social protection, education, and/or public sector development
• Proven track record in stakeholder engagement, effective and persuasive communication skills, excellent leadership, tact, and diplomacy.

 

The implementation period for all activities under this assignment is expected to commence in June-July 2026 and end no later than the project closing date in December 2029. The assignment will require approximately 45–50 person-days of consultant input annually. The consultant will be expected to travel to Azerbaijan at least twice per year, spending approximately 20–25 days in the country each year.

The Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultant selection method set out in the World Bank Procurement Regulations.

Applicants should send CV (with diplomas and certificates) to the following email address:

E-mail:  office@esp.az

Application deadline: May 25, 2026

Note:
* Please mention the Project and name of vacancy in the mail subject
* Only short-listed candidates will be contacted