Localisation and Partnerships

Partnerships are central to ShelterBox’s vision and strategic objectives. Only when we maximize the potential of partnerships we can collectively achieve more, have greater impact, and do so in more cost-effective, inclusive and sustainable ways. ShelterBox recognizes that partners are not a homogenous group and that we have diverse relationships with a variety of partners globally. We also observe that the role of northern international non-governmental organisations (INGOs), often referred to as ‘intermediary agencies,’ is increasingly being questioned and likely to evolve in coming years. In addition, there is an ongoing conversation in our sector on localisation, decolonisation, and anti-racism.

In this changing context, and in line with the 2022 – 2027 strategy, it is vital that ShelterBox develop an organization wide approach to partnership. Doing so challenges us to examine our operating model, review current partnerships and confront power imbalances built into our ways of working as humanitarian actors. We have a responsibility to share and shift the power we hold, maximising our contributions to locally led response in this period and continuing to build on this in the future.

In defining what a locally led approach to partnerships looks like at ShelterBox we hope to guide ShelterBox staff, affiliates, and partner organisations through the strategic evolution of our work and provide greater insights into the practical application of partnership goals outlined in the International Programme Strategy (2022-2026).

The localisation and partnerships project has three key objectives:

1. To define the concept of localisation and partnerships as it pertains to ShelterBox’s vision and strategic objectives.
2. To align ShelterBox’s approach to localisation and partnerships with best practice (as outlined in key initiatives like the Pledge for Change and Grand Bargain)
3. To reshape organisational practice and embed a culture that promotes leadership, representation and participation by local actors, holding the organisation to account against agreed principles and standards.

The consultancy will support ShelterBox, in an advisory role, to define a vision and theoretical framework for localisation and partnerships. This is not expected to take more than 10 days, over a six-month period.

They will provide guidance, support and critical reflection to the Partnership Manager and Deputy Director of International Programmes, as well as senior management on the following:

Framing of localisation agenda in the ShelterBox context

• Support the development of a progressive vision and theoretical framework (known internally as the Partnership Framework) on localisation and partnership that is not just programmatic but strategic and organisation wide.
• Review internal policies and process assigned by the Partnership Manager Make suggested improvements to reflect shared power relations in decision-making, programme design, resource mobilization and other stages/elements of the project management cycle and partnership process.
• Providing guidelines on how to deepen the understanding (and acceptance) of shared power relations amongst ShelterBox staff by organizing discussion groups on localisation and power-sharing, including the establishment of spaces for reflective practice with local partners on power relations and appropriateness of interventions and programmes.

Deliverables

1. A progressive vision and partnerships framework is delivered (written by the Partnerships Manager, supported by the consultant and Deputy Director for International Programmes)
2. Gap Analysis (desk review and interviews) evaluating the gap between the agreed vision and current operations to inform the content of the localisation project
3. Clear organisational guidelines and high-level recommendations on how to close the gap:
   • promoting and advocating for a shift in the balance of power between ShelterBox and local actors
   • guidance on external engagement

Scope of work

• Engagement with staff across organisation through the working group
• Facilitating workshops with the working group and executive team
• Key informant interviews and focus group discussion.
• Reflection sessions with the Partnership Manager and Deputy Director of International Programmes
• Support the development of a partnership framework/strategy (suggesting structure and content, proof-reading drafts, making suggested edits etc).

Work schedule and planning

• The localisation expert may be based in any location, but available to work online during UK business hours (9am-5pm). Depending on the location of the successful candidate, there may be an opportunity to work with ShelterBox at their office in Truro, Cornwall (UK).
• The duration of the assignment is expected to be six months.
• Available to work 1 or 2 days per month, starting September 2024.
• Maximum 10 days’ work over a six-month period.
• The consultant will develop and submit to WC a monthly implementation plan that cumulatively builds into the overall delivery plan for the assignment.

Type of supervision

• Working closely with the Partnership Working Group. Reporting to the Partnerships Manager and Deputy Director for International Programmes.

Education and experience

• University degree in social sciences, international development, or related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience with NGOs in international settings.
• Experience working in the development or humanitarian sector with specific reference to localisation, partnership, decolonialization and anti-racism activities.
• Knowledge of the localisation agenda and standards under the Grand Bargain/Pledge for Change.
• Proven high level analytical and communication skills and ability to build collaborative relationships at all levels and across sectors and agencies.
• Proven excellent competencies within report writing, analysis and evaluation, and communication.
• Experience of working with senior management teams (directors, trustees etc) to establish and implement localisation strategies.
• Fluency in English
• Applications from individuals/agencies based in the global south are encouraged.