Economist Business Model Specialist (Consultancy)

NCA provide emergency assistance in disasters, work for long-term development in local communities and address the root causes of poverty, we advocate for just decisions by public authorities, business and religious leaders.

NCA is operating in the Northeast of Nigeria since 2017, delivering humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected areas. We work in four local government areas in Borno State in Northeast Nigeria: Dikwa, Monguno, Gwoza-Pulka, and Maiduguri to save lives, alleviate suffering and safeguard the dignity of conflicted-affected populations in:

• Gender-Based Violence (GBV),

• Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH)

• Climate Resilient Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (CRWASH)

NCA is currently implementing a faecal sludge management (FSM) pilot project where faecal sludge is transformed into briquettes and into fertilizers.

NCA is looking for a consultant to conduct market assessment and develop a business model for the briquettes and for the fertilizers. The consultant will evaluate the potential market, identify key opportunities and challenges. The findings from the market assessment can be used to inform the development of robust business models. The business model should outline the core aspect such as target customer segments, value propositions, revenue and key activities.

The consultant will be based in Maiduguri NCA office and will report to the WASH PM.

SCOPE OF WORK

1. Conduct a comprehensive market assessment for the products derived from faecal sludge, briquettes and fertilizers. The assessment should encompass, but not be limited to, the following elements:

• Market overview; market size, growth rates, competitors
• Regulatory environment: relevant regulation for the production, sales and use of briquettes and fertilizers made from faecal sludge
• Economic factors: economic factor that could impact the market, including inflation and economic growth
• Demand analyses: Consumer behavior and preferences regarding briquettes and fertilizers made from faecal sludge. Other factors that could drive demand, such as environmental concerns
• Pricing analysis: Current price levels for similar type of products, and on alternatives. Recommendation of price level based on production costs, competitors pricing and consumers’ willingness to pay.
• Potential private partners and distribution channels.
• Value proposition: vision, mission and values
• Operations plan, including required machinery, sourcing of raw materials, logistics, staffing etc.
• Financial projections, including revenue models based on market preferences and willingness to pay, key costs, and profitability.
• Break-even analysis and financial viability assessment

1. Develop a robust and sustainable business model for briquettes and fertilizers derived from faecal sludge. The model should encompass, but not be limited to, the following elements:

• Essential partnerships and activities needed
• Distribution and marketing channels to reach the target customers

REPORTING AND DELIVERABLES

• The consultant will report to the respective WASH program Manager, or to the person with this responsibility.
• The consultant will provide regular progress updates, with a formal review at the end of each major milestone.
• The consultant shall deliver a comprehensive market assessment report for briquettes and for fertilizer shall
• The consultant shall deliver a detailed business model document, including all components outlined in the scope of work
• A presentation summarizing key findings and recommendations.
• Final deliverables will be presented to the management team for review and approval.

COMMUNICATION AND REPRESENTATION:

• Represent the project at relevant meetings, workshops, and conferences to promote project objectives.
• Document and share key achievements / impact created by implementation of the project.
• Collaborate with project partners and stakeholders to raise awareness about the project and its benefits.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 3-4 years of relevant experience
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in economics, business, agricultural economics, or in a related field.
• Proven experience in conducting market assessment and developing business models.
• Strong analytical and strategic skills.
• Familiarity with the Northeast Nigerian market and business environment.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to deliver training programs and facilitate workshops to build capacity and knowledge among project beneficiaries.
• Proficiency in computer applications and data management software.
• Fluency in English, and local languages is a requirement.

TIMELINE

The assignment is expected to be completed within 04 months from the start date. A detailed project timeline with specific milestones and deadlines will be agreed upon at the commencement of the project.

NCA’S COMMITMENTS

NCA is committed to following policies, standards and commitments and all staff are equally expected to conform to their requirements:

• Humanitarian Accountability Partnership (HAP)
• Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Disaster Relief
• ACT Alliance Code of Conduct
• SPHERE Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Relief
• NCA Nigeria Security Plan
• NCA Nigeria Staff Handbook

Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse

Actively promote PSEA (Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse) standards within Norwegian Church Aid and amongst beneficiaries served by Norwegian Church Aid.

Compliance & Ethics:

Promotes and encourages a culture of compliance and ethics throughout Norwegian Church Aid. As applicable to the position, maintains a clear understanding of Norwegian Church Aid’ and donor compliance and ethics standards and adheres to those standards. Conducts work with the highest level of integrity. Communicates these values to staff and to partners and requires them to adhere to these values

Other duties as assigned. The duties and responsibilities listed are representative of the nature and level of work assigned and are not necessarily all inclusive.