SCOPE OF WORK

The Consultant will:

1. Support the strengthening of the Africa regional network (www.idisc.net/africa). This entails working in close collaboration with the regional network Secretariat based in South Africa to increase reach, particularly in Central and West Africa, support the network in the implementation of their annual action plan, and the creation of their long term strategy, and facilitate increased communication and knowledge sharing among network members.
2. Assess the trends in business incubation in the region, and identify promising business incubation models, methodologies and success stories for further exploration. Work closely with infoDev’s Knowledge Management Analyst to ensure that this content is properly featured on iDisc (www.idisc.net).
3. Provide one-on-one technical assistance to existing business incubators in select African countries, particularly in Central and West Africa, identified by infoDev for targeted financing and capacity building. The technical assistance provided should aim to increase the sustainability and effectiveness of the business incubator.
4. Organize awareness raising workshops and participate in conducting feasibility assessments for the establishment of new business incubators in select African countries, particularly in Central and West Africa, identified by infoDev.
5. Provide advisory support services to infoDev’s Global Incubator Initiative.

Qualifications

The consultant(s) should have the following qualifications:

1. Substantial practical experience with business incubation, SME development, business support services, and related issues of private sector development/entrepreneurship development, with at least 8 years of experience working on these issues in developing countries, preferably in Africa
2. Extensive experience with creating and facilitating networks, communities of practice, and/or associations of peers
3. Strong client orientation, pro-active relationship management skills, good track record in capacity building and client relationship management, particularly in the African context.
4. Previous work experience in facilitating workshops and training sessions
5. Excellent communication and networking skills
6. Ability to think and act strategically, and a proven ability to develop business approaches that both set out and meet the desired objectives
7. Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently with limited supervision
8. Excellent proficiency in English and French

Expected Scope and Duration of Assignment

The consultant will be hired for an initial period of 50 days during the period September 1, 2008 – March 1, 2009, with possibilities for extension.

The position will involve extensive travel, and will be based in a central location in Africa (i.e. Dakar, Lagos, Accra) to facilitate ease of travel to client countries. The exact location will be negotiated upon identification on a suitable candidate for the position.

TO APPLY

Please send a cover letter and CV to Sboulos@worldbank.org with the following subject line: "STC- Incubation Africa".

Download the Terms of Reference for this position here:

Application Deadline: August 10, 2008