Service Contract Opportunity – Socio-Economic Consultant

We are inviting qualified and experienced professionals to apply for the role of Socio-Economic Consultant for the project Reimagine Noonu Binaaveshi – Development of the Noonu Atoll Land Use Plan (LUP).

This initiative focuses on addressing critical challenges, including population growth, climate change, resource management, and infrastructure development, while promoting sustainable livelihoods and resilience. The selected consultant will be engaged on a service contract basis to provide expert input into the methodology development for the Atoll Land Use Plan.

Key Responsibilities

The Socio-Economic Consultant will be responsible for the following tasks:

1. Input into the Development of Methodology:

   • Provide recommendations on socio-economic strategies for inclusion in the methodology for the Strategic Atoll Land Use Plan, such as economic development strategies, social inclusion frameworks, and livelihood improvement plans.

   • Identify key socio-economic deliverables.

   • Ensure the methodology includes considerations for vulnerable groups, gender equity, and sustainable economic growth.

2. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with the Urban Planning Consultant to design a stakeholder engagement plan that ensures participation from socio-economic stakeholders, including local businesses, community groups, and marginalized populations.

3. Coordination with Other Specialists: Work closely with the Urban Planning Consultant and other specialists (Legal, Transport & Logistics, and Surveying) to ensure socio-economic considerations are integrated into the methodology.

4. Presentation of Inputs:

   • Present socio-economic inputs to the Noonu Atoll Council and Noonu Local Authority Company (Noonu LAC) as part of the methodology development process.

   • Revise inputs based on stakeholder feedback and submit final recommendations for inclusion in the methodology.

Deliverables

The consultant will provide the following deliverables during the service contract period:

1. Socio-Economic Input Report:

   • Recommendations for socio-economic strategies to be included in the methodology.

   • Identification of key socio-economic deliverables.

   • Stakeholder engagement recommendations.

2. Presentation of Inputs: A formal presentation to the Noonu Atoll Council and Noonu LAC as part of the methodology development process.

3. Final Recommendations: A revised and finalized report incorporating feedback from stakeholders.

Contract Duration

The service contract will last for one month, during which the consultant is expected to complete their assigned tasks and deliverables.

Payment Terms

• Consultants will be compensated on an hourly basis for actual hours worked.

• A proposed hourly rate is required during submission, which will be subject to negotiation and approval by Noonu LAC.

• Payment will be disbursed based on approved timesheets, along with bi-weekly submission of invoices summarizing the work completed.

Key Qualifications and Experience

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Economics, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in socio-economic analysis, development planning, or related fields.

• Proven experience in contributing to strategic planning projects, particularly in integrating socio-economic dimensions.

• Demonstrated proficiency in stakeholder engagement and participatory planning processes.

• Familiarity with sustainable development principles, social inclusion frameworks, and economic resilience strategies.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and facilitation abilities.

• A proven ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

• Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques.

Reporting and Coordination

The Socio-Economic Consultant will report to the Noonu Atoll Council while working closely with the Noonu LAC. Regular progress updates during the contract period will be required, including participation in coordination meetings with the Urban Planning Consultant, other specialists, and stakeholders. The consultant will present their findings to the Atoll Council and Noonu LAC for review.

Submission Requirements

Interested consultants are expected to provide the following documents:

• Proposed Hourly Rate: A clear indication of the consultant’s hourly rate for services provided.

• Proposed Approach: A brief description of the consultant’s strategy for integrating socio-economic considerations into the methodology for the Strategic Atoll Land Use Plan.

• Relevant Experience: Includes a detailed CV, portfolio of relatable projects (minimum one involving socio-economic analysis in strategic planning), and references from previous clients.

• Confirmation of Availability: A statement ensuring availability to meet the project timeline.

Evaluation Criteria

Submissions will be assessed based on weighted criteria as outlined:

• Proposed Hourly Rate – 50%

• Proposed Approach – 30%

• Relevant Experience – 20%

Additional Consideration for Deliverables Development

Upon finalization and approval of the methodology, the selected Socio-Economic Consultant will be given priority for the development of specific socio-economic deliverables in Phase II of the project. The fee for these deliverables will be negotiated based on the project’s value and scope as outlined in the approved methodology.

Timeline and Deadlines

• Registration Opens: 11th March 2025

• Registration Closes: 16th March 2025, 13:00

• Information Session: 17th March 2025, 13:00

• Response to Queries: 20th March 2025, 13:00

• Bid Submission Deadline: 25th March 2025, 13:00

How to Apply

Submit your application along with the required documents to hello@noonunaturally.com by the deadlines provided above.

We look forward to engaging with skilled professionals dedicated to fostering socio-economic equity and resilience. For further inquiries, please contact hello@noonunaturally.com