Call for Expression of Interest: Roster of Independent Proposal Writing Consultant Experts

ICBA aims to establish a roster of experienced proposal writing experts, who could be engaged on short-term/retainer contracts for the preparation of proposals or concept notes, either in response to donors’ calls for proposals/expressions of interest or on an ad-hoc basis.

Working in support and under the guidance of ICBA’s Senior Proposal Development Specialist, selected consultants will be required to:

• Write (or rewrite) proposals or concept notes for ICBA’s scientists and specialists, ensuring that they are well-written, persuasive, concise, and presented in a structured and easy-to-follow manner;
• Participate, when necessary, in the planning of approaches and pitches through teleconference with relevant ICBA staff;
• Ensure that the way in which ICBA’s proposed projects address donors’ strategic objectives is clearly explained in the proposals/concept notes;
• Research the contexts in which the projects proposed by ICBA will be implemented and reflect relevant information in the proposals/concept notes in a manner that provides prospective donors with a strong justification for funding ICBA’s proposed projects;
• Develop or revise the theories of change, the results frameworks and, if requested, the budgets of the proposed projects;
• Ensure that the final proposal/concept note documents are presentable and compliant with ICBA’s branding guidelines or the donors’ specific formats;
• Work within time and cost constraints, ensuring that the final deliverables are submitted on time and meet ICBA’s quality expectations.

A prospective candidate should meet the following minimum requirements:

• Advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent), preferably in development studies, communication, or another relevant field. A bachelor’s degree with a relevant combination of professional training, certification and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree;
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in proposal writing, preferably related to international agricultural research and development. Proven ability to draft/edit texts, articulating ideas in a clear and concise style, and develop theories of change, results frameworks and budgets for projects;
• Previous experience with research institutions, United Nations agencies, NGOs or funding agencies in project development, appraisal and/or implementation would be an advantage;
• Full professional proficiency in English; a similar proficiency in Arabic would be an advantage;
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office and the ability to produce professional Word and Excel documents;
• Pass ICBA’s selection/screening.

Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of the international agricultural research and development arena, with a focus on food/nutrition security, water security, livelihoods and/or resilience to climate change;
• Ability to research, analyze and synthesize information related to complex development issues;
• Familiarity with the requirements of key development donors;
• Team player with the skills to coordinate proposal development exercises;
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented with the ability to work under pressure.

Application

Qualified candidates are requested to submit the following to HR Section: (hr@biosaline.org.ae):

• Updated curriculum vitae
• Samples of original writing
• Proposed daily rate and minimum notice period before commencement of an assignment
• Three references

The expressions of interest should be submitted with the subject line “Proposal Writer”.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo an assessment.