CONSULTANCY OVERVIEW

The USAID Esho Shikhi Activity in Bangladesh focuses on improving learning outcomes for marginalized children in crisis-affected, underserved communities. This is achieved by enhancing learning opportunities, teaching quality, and teaching materials; increasing the capacity of field-level mentors; and supporting school communities to better manage shocks and stressors affecting education access and quality.

The Consultant will provide short-term technical assistance to support the Esho Shikhi Senior Communications Manager in writing, editing, and designing program deliverables. The deliverables include quarterly and annual progress reports, as well as the final project report. The Consultant will oversee the report preparation process, from initial drafting to responding to client feedback, working closely with the Senior Communications Manager and reporting to the Chief of Party.

The consultancy is expected to start on January 10, 2025, contingent on client approval.

SCOPE OF WORK

The Consultant will be responsible for guiding the vision, content development, and quality of Esho Shikhi’s reports. The consultancy covers the development of approximately 10 reports, each ranging from 30 to 50 pages.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Senior Communications Manager to develop plans and production calendars for each report.
• Utilize existing content and gather inputs from teams to populate the technical narrative.
• Draft technical report narratives in US English, ensuring high-quality editing for cohesiveness, clarity, and compliance with USAID guidelines and AP style.
• Identify and develop 1-4 success stories for each report, overseeing the process from topic selection to final writing/editing.
• Ensure appropriate style, tone, and logical flow of information to meet USAID requirements.
• Format reports to comply with USAID branding regulations and provide capacity-building support to the Senior Communications Manager in this area.
• Reformat tables and graphics for enhanced visual representation, adhering to USAID guidelines.
• Identify and incorporate photos and simple visuals/graphics into the reports.
• Provide periodic updates to the Chief of Party and home office program management team, addressing challenges and feedback from USAID.
• Conduct training sessions for staff on report writing and success story development as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communications, or a related field.
• 5-6 years of experience producing written communications or deliverables for USAID activities, including writing and editing experience.

• Writing and Editing: Strong writing, editing, and AP style skills for technical content.
• USAID Knowledge: Experience applying USAID branding and style guide requirements.
• Communication: Effective interpersonal and collaboration skills, especially with remote teams.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, SharePoint, and Excel.
• Design Skills: Ability to format and enhance tables and graphics for clarity.
• Training Ability: Experience providing coaching and training on report development.
• Critical Thinking: Strong analytical skills for improving clarity and coherence.
• Adaptability: Ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines and adapt to uncertainty.
• Familiarity with international education and literacy concepts in humanitarian settings.
• Experience writing for global audiences and U.S. government stakeholders.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements