NGO Localisation Expert

Location:
Remote with travel to Angola, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda. (depending on project requirements)

Contract Type:
US Consultancy Agreement

Reports to:
Chief Revenue Officer

Contract Duration:
6-8 weeks from start date

Background:
ForAfrika is a leading African humanitarian and development organisation focused on delivering impactful projects across Africa. As we explore the localisation of our operations to enhance efficiency, ownership, and sustainability, we seek an expert consultant to guide us through the process of establishing localised entities. This includes understanding the benefits, challenges, as well as understanding the key questions that need to be asked, and having a robust knowledge of institutional funding requirements to ensure we are successful and sustainable.

Role Summary:
The NGO Localisation Expert will provide strategic advice and insights on the creation and operationalisation of localised entities within the context of specific African countries. The consultant will also assess the institutional funding landscape, advise on donor requirements, and provide guidance on the necessary structures to secure and manage grants effectively from within the localised framework.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

• Strategic Advisory:
  • Provide a detailed analysis of the positive aspects and potential challenges of establishing localised entities in specific African countries.
  • Identify and advise on potential pitfalls and common issues that may arise during the localisation process.
  • Develop a strategic framework for localisation that aligns with the organisation’s goals and mission.
• Institutional Funding Insights:
  • Assess the requirements of key institutional donors (e.g., governments, international agencies, foundations) for localised entities.
  • Advise on best practices to secure institutional funding, including proposal writing, compliance, and reporting requirements.
  • Offer guidance on how to position local entities to be competitive in the grant application process.
• Organisational Structure & Compliance:
  • Recommend optimal organisational structures for localised entities, ensuring they meet both local legal requirements and donor expectations.
  • Provide insights on governance models, financial management systems, and operational frameworks that would enhance the credibility and effectiveness of local entities.
  • Advise on risk management strategies to mitigate potential operational and financial risks associated with localisation.
• Advise on both non-profit and for-profit company structures in each country that we operate
• Key Questions & Considerations:
  • Formulate key questions that the organisation must consider when deciding to localise operations.
  • Assist in the development of decision-making tools and matrices to evaluate the readiness and potential impact of localisation efforts.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Advanced degree in International Development, Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience working in the NGO sector, with a significant focus on localisation in Africa.
• Extensive knowledge of the institutional funding landscape, including experience with major donors such as USAID, DFID, EU, and UN agencies.
• Proven track record in advising on the establishment of localised entities and securing institutional funding.
• Strong understanding of the legal, financial, and operational frameworks required for effective localisation in African contexts.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.

Shortlisted candidates will be expected to undergo psychometric testing and background screening.