Terms of Reference (TOR) Pre-Qualification of Short Term Technical Consultants

TERMS OF REFERENCE NO: EC-2024-PQLTC-05 

PRE-QUALIFICATION OF TECHNICAL LEAD CONSULTANTS 2024 -2025

Position Short Term Technical Consultant

Maximum Level of Effort: On need basis

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE  October 2024 – September 2025

Position reports to the CEO.

Location Base: Somalia/Kenya

About Eagle Consulting LTD:

Eagle Consulting is a trusted provider of third-party monitoring, evaluation, and research services to development, humanitarian and private sector organizations operating in Somalia. Established in 2009, we have built a reputation for delivering high-quality, evidence-based insights that help our clients achieve their goals. With a dedicated team of professionals and a wide network of researchers, we operate across urban and remote areas of Somalia, including all Regional Federal Member States.

Our core competencies include:

1.       Research data collection and analysis: our team has the capacity to mobilize enumerators and well-trained data collectors to conduct both qualitative and quantitative data tethering activities.  We had been using mobile data collection platforms and techniques to enhance accuracy and the reliability of the information we gather, our researchers are also well-trained in the analysis of both qualitatives and quantitative data by using different statistical analysis packages including SPSS, R, Excel and STATA softwares to produce the final results.

2.       Research design and management: we have a team of qualified researchers that include academic staff from different local universities who have access to most parts of the Somalia Regional states.

3.       Monitoring and evaluation: we have experience and expertise in conducting monitoring and evaluation activities for projects implemented by both the local non-profit organizations involved in development and humanitarian work, and international development agencies. Our researchers are capable of designing, executing and managing M & E projects, and also adapting existing tools developed by our partners.

4.       Other services: our firm has the capacity to do logistics, visa processing, hiring local and International technical expertise, audit services and capacity building for staff and government ministries conduct technical assessments and evaluations of projects that require the technical expertise and knowledge of specific programs in Somalia.

3. Purpose of consultancy

Terms of Reference (TOR) Pre-Qualification of Short Term Technical Consultants

 1. Introduction

The Technical Lead will bring advanced knowledge of research methodologies—both qualitative and quantitative—to support data collection, survey design, analysis, and reporting. This ensures that M&E activities adhere to the highest standards of research integrity and accuracy.

●     Objective: Enhance the quality of research and evaluation through rigorous methodologies, ensuring reliable and valid data collection and analysis.

2. Objective

The objective of this consultancy is to:

Recruiting a Technical Lead Research and M&E Consultant aims to integrate a high level of technical and strategic expertise to improve the efficiency, impact, and accountability of projects. By combining leadership in M&E design, research methodologies, data management, and stakeholder engagement, this role ensures the Company can measure, analyze, and communicate its achievements effectively, while continuously improving its approach to services provided to our clients.

The Technical Lead will identify and implement innovative tools, platforms, and approaches (e.g., mobile data collection, real-time data analytics) to streamline the M&E process and enhance its efficiency and accuracy.

●     Objective: Leverage cutting-edge technologies and practices to optimize the M&E process and produce more timely, accurate, and actionable results.

The role will involve developing and maintaining strong communication channels with key stakeholders, including donors, clients, and beneficiaries, ensuring they are kept informed of project progress, challenges, and successes through regular and transparent reporting.

●     Objective: Facilitate clear, transparent communication with stakeholders, ensuring that they are well-informed of program performance and the impact of interventions.

3. Preferred Skills 1. Design Evaluation Frameworks and Methodologies

The Evaluation Lead Consultant is responsible for designing evaluation frameworks and selecting appropriate methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method) that align with the program’s objectives and intended outcomes.

●     Tasks:

○     Develop or refine the Theory of Change or Logic Models for the program.

○     Define clear evaluation questions, indicators, and metrics to measure program performance.

○     Select and tailor evaluation methodologies that best suit the context and goals (e.g., experimental designs, case studies, surveys, etc.).

○     Ensure the evaluation framework is participatory and inclusive, engaging stakeholders in the process.

2. Lead and Oversee Evaluation Teams

The consultant manages evaluation teams, which may consist of internal staff, external experts, field researchers, and data analysts. They ensure that the team works cohesively to meet evaluation objectives and timelines.

●     Tasks:

○     Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and assign specific roles and responsibilities.

○     Provide guidance, mentoring, and technical oversight to team members.

○     Ensure data collection protocols and ethical standards are adhered to in the field.

○     Monitor the progress of the evaluation to ensure it is on track, adjusting strategies as needed.

3. Data Collection and Management

The consultant oversees the data collection process, ensuring that high-quality, reliable data is gathered in line with the evaluation design. They also manage the data analysis phase to ensure accurate and meaningful insights are drawn.

●     Tasks:

○     Design and pilot data collection tools (e.g., surveys, interviews, focus group guides, observation checklists).

○     Ensure the use of appropriate data collection technologies (e.g., mobile data collection, online surveys).

○     Supervise data collection teams and ensure quality control through field visits, remote monitoring, and data validation.

○     Manage data entry, cleaning, and storage processes in compliance with data protection laws (e.g., GDPR).

○     Analyze the data using appropriate statistical or qualitative methods.

4. Conduct Impact, Process, and Outcome Evaluations

The consultant is responsible for evaluating various aspects of a program, including process evaluations (how the program was implemented), outcome evaluations (short- and mid-term results), and impact evaluations (long-term effects).

●     Tasks:

○     Conduct process evaluations to assess how the program is being delivered, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

○     Conduct outcome evaluations to determine if the program is meeting its objectives in the short or medium term.

○     Lead impact evaluations to assess the program’s long-term impact on beneficiaries or communities.

5. Ensure Compliance with Ethical Standards

The Evaluation Lead Consultant is responsible for ensuring that all evaluation activities adhere to ethical standards, particularly in relation to data collection, confidentiality, and working with vulnerable populations.

●     Tasks:

○     Develop and implement ethical guidelines and protocols for evaluation.

○     Obtain appropriate informed consent from participants.

○     Ensure confidentiality and anonymity of respondents in data collection and reporting.

○     Address any ethical concerns that arise during fieldwork or evaluation analysis.

6. Reporting and Communicating Evaluation Results

The consultant is tasked with producing clear, concise, and actionable evaluation reports. These reports should provide evidence-based recommendations and insights for improving program effectiveness.

●     Tasks:

○     Write comprehensive evaluation reports that summarize key findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

○     Develop briefs, presentations, and visualizations (e.g., dashboards, infographics) to communicate findings to non-technical stakeholders.

○     Tailor reporting formats to suit different audiences, including donors, senior management, program teams, and beneficiaries.

○     Present findings in meetings, workshops, and conferences, and facilitate discussion on next steps and strategic adjustments.

7. Make Evidence-Based Recommendations

Based on the findings from the evaluation, the consultant is responsible for offering recommendations to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of the program.

●     Tasks:

○     Analyze the data to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) related to the program.

○     Propose evidence-based recommendations for program improvements, scalability, or redesign.

○     Collaborate with program teams to translate evaluation findings into actionable improvements.

8. Provide Strategic Guidance to Senior Management and Stakeholders

The Evaluation Lead Consultant serves as a strategic advisor to senior management, donors, and other stakeholders by providing insights and recommendations based on the evaluation results.

●     Tasks:

○     Offer high-level strategic advice on how to integrate evaluation findings into ongoing or future programming.

○     Guide decision-makers on prioritizing resources based on data-driven insights.

○     Advise on scaling successful initiatives or adjusting underperforming aspects of the program.

9. Capacity Building in M&E

The Evaluation Lead Consultant often plays a role in building the capacity of the Consulting Company staff or partners in monitoring and evaluation practices.

●     Tasks:

○     Organize training sessions or workshops on evaluation techniques, data collection tools, and analysis methods.

○     Develop resources and manuals that improve the internal team’s ability to conduct evaluations.

○     Mentor junior M&E staff, providing them with the skills needed to perform evaluations independently.

10. Maintain Stakeholder Engagement Throughout the Evaluation Process

Stakeholder involvement is critical in evaluations, and the Evaluation Lead Consultant is responsible for keeping stakeholders informed and involved from the design phase through to reporting and follow-up.

●     Tasks:

○     Engage stakeholders (including beneficiaries, donors, and partners) in evaluation planning and design.

○     Facilitate feedback loops where stakeholders can review and comment on preliminary findings.

○     Manage stakeholder expectations by clearly defining the scope, limitations, and timeline of the evaluation.

○     Ensure transparent communication throughout the evaluation process.

11. Monitor Emerging Trends and Innovations in Evaluation Practices

The Evaluation Lead Consultant is expected to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, tools, and best practices in evaluation, including new technologies and approaches.

●     Tasks:

○     Keep abreast of the latest innovations in M&E technology (e.g., AI in data analysis, real-time dashboards).

○     Adapt new evaluation methodologies to improve efficiency and accuracy.

○     Attend professional development events, webinars, and conferences focused on M&E and research.

5. Duration of the Assignment

The consultancy is expected to be engaged for the period of [Assignment] starting from [November 1st 2024], depending on services required which will be based on available job opportunities within Eagle Consultant Company..

Consultant Qualifications

The ideal consultant should have:

●     Advanced degree in Data Science, M&E, political science, international relations, or a related field.

●     Minimum of 10 years of experience in conflict analysis, peacebuilding, or violence assessment in fragile contexts, particularly in Somalia or similar environments.

●     Proven experience in survey design and implementation, particularly perception surveys related to conflict and peace.

●     Expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods.

●     Strong communication and report-writing skills, with the ability to present complex data to non-technical audiences.

7. Reporting and Supervision

The Technical Consultant will report to the CEO of the Somalia Mission. All deliverables will be submitted to the CEO for review and approval.

8. Payment and Terms

Payments will be made based on deliverables and agreed milestones as per the consultancy contract.

This TOR outlines the role and expectations for the Technical Lead Consultant responsible for Designing baseline assessments, Evaluations, Research studies, Proposal writing, tools development, developing final report presentations, inception reports, final reports based on the client needs in Somalia. The consultant will be critical in providing the Design of assessment and all related technical requirements needed for Eagle Consulting and its partners to monitor progress and improve strategic outcomes.

Eagle Consulting is an equal opportunity employer that does not tolerate discrimination on any basis. We actively seek out diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills so that we can be collectively stronger and have sustained global impact. We are committed to providing an environment of respect and psychological safety where equal employment opportunities are available to all. We do not engage in or tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin.

Interested candidates, who meet the above requirements, should apply through the following email: [email protected]  by submitting their applications (cover letter, updated CV and contacts of 3 professional referees) with subject line (TERMS OF REFERENCE NO: EC-2024-PQLTC-05), The closing date for application is 31st  October, 2024. Applications and CVs submitted after the deadline will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.