Financial Sustainability Consultant

Background

The MENAPAR (Middle East and North Africa Public Administration Research) is a network of professionals and organizations in the Arab region with an interest in public administration research in the process of being converted into an international NGO. MENAPAR institutionalization intends to convert the existing MENAPAR network into an effective and efficient MENAPAR institution that is an independent legal entity, managed by a governance Board, with a) functional and proper administrative structures, b) a project and activity portfolio, c) self-sufficient financial resources, and d) strategic and operational plans. This initiation project will lay the ground-work for the institutionalization by exploring legal and governance options that are best fit for a regional entity, strategies for financial sustainability and a networking strategy to ensure enhanced member goodwill and involvement.  It will also work towards setting the formalization framework for institutionalizing evidence-based research. This initiation project will also contribute to the 2nd EuroMENA Conference in Granada-Spain by holding a one-day event on best practices in Arab Public Administration, highlighting Bahrain’s landmark experiences, and facilitating the scientific program of the conference.

Under the guidance and direct supervision of the UNDP Programme Officer, and in collaboration with the MENAPAR Senior Project Officer, the Financial Sustainability Consultant will develop a comprehensive vision for the long-term survival and financial self-sufficiency of the MENAPAR NGO so that it continues to thrive. Financial Sustainability is not just about securing financial resources, but also in-kind support, volunteer staff or shared resources from other organizations. Financial resources include inter alia, cash, liquid securities, interest free credit lines, donations, government and private sector grants, membership fees and private sponsorship. The Financial Sustainability Consultant will apply and promote the principles of results-based management (RBM), as well as a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations

Duties and Responsibilities

The duties and responsibilities of the FSC include:

• Performing a field study of best practice financial sustainability models in the MENA region for NGOs;
• Formulating a best fit financial strategy for the MENAPAR NGO;
• Charting out the Grants Procurement process from governments as well as non-governmental foundations, charities and the private sector whose missions are in alignment with MENAPAR’s research mission;
• Writing Grant proposals;
• Compiling a list of funding sources both governmental and non-governmental, institutional and individual;
• Setting up the infrastructure for membership fees policy and collection; and
• Creating fundraising materials.

Deliverables:

• MENAPAR’s Financial Sustainability Strategy Document
• A 4-year Financial Sustainability Plan (2018 – 2021)
• MENAPAR’s 4-year budget (2018 – 2021)
• Grants Procurement Process Document
• At least one grant proposal
• Procurement of at least one year’s expenses
• Database of Funding Sources
• Fundraising materials

Brief final report with a consultancy summary

Competencies

Core Competencies:

• Systems thinking vis-à-vis the MENA context
• External collaboration with financial partners to build long-term alliances
• Creativity and innovation in the engineering of financial inputs
• Awareness of emerging trends in financial sustainability and business models
• Demonstration of active values of integrity, ethics and cultural sensitivity

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

A minimum of a Master’s degree in public administration, international law, political science, business, communications, public relations or any other related field.  

Work Experience and Other Qualifications:

• At least five years of experience in financial consulting;
• Previous hands-on experience in development assistance or related work for a donor organization, governmental institutions, NGO or private sector / consulting firm is a very strong advantage.
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.)  and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web based management systems;
• Strong administrative skills; Well organized, methodical, ability to set priorities and pay attention to detail;
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills and collaborative managerial style; Ability to work in a multicultural team;
• Excellent analytical and communication skills;
• Experience in the MENA region is a pre-requisite and MENA residency is preferred.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in written and spoken English; knowledge of Arabic is a strong advantage