About ECODIT
ECODIT is an international development firm working with governments, businesses, and local communities to advance environmentally- and socially-responsible development around the world. We provide technical assistance services ranging from quick-turnaround assessments and evaluations to design and implementation of long-term multi-million-dollar projects. Since its founding in 1993, ECODIT has provided professional services through more than 250 projects/contracts to diverse clients in more 50 countries. Building on our track record of success, we have continuously expanded the depth and breadth of our expertise in the energy, water, environment, and urban and local governance sectors.
About the Project
The Power Africa Data and Technical Support Services (DTS) Activity is a five-year project that will provide technical and data support to Power Africa, the U.S. Government initiative aimed at supporting economic growth and development by increasing access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable power across Sub-Saharan Africa. The project will provide support to the following overarching Power Africa by (1) providing strategic and technical support for the advancement of Power Africa’s 2.0 strategy; (2) supporting the development of technical and capacity-building assistance relevant to deal support for all transactions and team programs; (3) assessing performance and progress toward established Power Africa targets, particularly related to energy generation transactions, but also including targets associated with connections, transmission and enabling environment; (4) ensuring that the data, information and analysis related to transactions activities, programs, and QASP are accurate, consistent, and timely; and (5) providing strategic information technology (IT) and data support to enhance Power Africa’s data management needs and ensure compliance with USAID’s Chief Information Officer (CIO) and federal rules and mandates.
About the Consultancy:
ECODIT seeks a Research Consultant to provide research services on prospective private sector partners for Power Africa under the USAID Power Africa Data and Technical Support Services Task Order Contract (DTS). Research under this activity will result in “Partner Due Diligence” reports, that will be reviewed by ECODIT and USAID staff. The Consultant will utilize both publicly available and subscription-based resources (paid for by ECODIT) to compile critical information on prospective partners, and will write reports for decision makers that assesses risks of partnerships against key criteria.
The Research Consultant will follow a pre-defined standard operating procedure (to be provided), and will be expected to compile information into a written report template, along with annex supporting information. Typical turnaround times for new due diligence reports is one week, with an expected level of effort (LOE) of up to two days per report, depending on information complexity.
Required tasks:
- Review submitted private sector partner documents. These typically include a letter of intent and company policy documents such as environmental/social policies and company annual reports. Document all findings.
- Review and assess publicly available information on a private sector partner, including partner websites, social media, and news about the partner. Document all findings.
- Identify all company senior management, subsidiaries, and parent firms. Document findings.
- Conduct a reputational risk screening against selected databases—such as SAMS, the Denied Persons List, and others—for all senior management firms associated with the potential partner. Document findings.
- Assess quality of partner policies, particularly environmental and social policies. Document findings.
Required skills:
- Excellent research and writing ability. Concise report writing is critical.
- Ability to quickly turn around reports is a plus, and ability to stick to schedules is required.
- Experience with USAID reporting and/or the energy sector is a big plus.
Expected Deliverables and Duration
Submission of approximately two (2) new due diligence reports a month (ranging from 0 to 5 reports requested). If successful, additional work may be requested of the consultant to complete “refresher” due diligence reports – which are similar to the work described above, but is a “re-screening” of current Power Africa partners to ensure all information remains current.
Anticipated Duration of Services
The duration of this consultancy is anticipated to be approximately six months, based on the needs of the client.
Place of Performance:
The work associated with this consultancy can be performed remotely.
How to apply
Application Instructions:
To be considered for this consultancy, please submit an updated CV and cover letter stating your interest and your qualifications relative to this opportunity as soon as possible. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until a suitable consultant has been identified.
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