The scope of work (SOW) sets forth the services to be provided by the Strategic Plan Development Consultant to Technical Advice Connect LTD/GTE (TAConnect). Technical Advice Connect LTD/GTE (TAConnect) is a non-profit organization registered in 2021 and based in Nigeria to bring innovative solutions to the provision of Technical Assistance (TA) services across Africa. TAConnect was established by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) to deliver tailored and cohesive support for states in Nigeria by strengthening their PHC systems and enhancing PHC service delivery. As an innovative platform, we respond to state TA priorities to promote sustainable improvements in state Primary Healthcare (PHC) systems’ performance and increase uptake of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) services.

We foster a critical shift in TA delivery in Nigeria by working closely with states and funders to define issues, identify solutions, and provide the necessary skills and expertise to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and quality of health services. Our approach combines the strengths of a Technical Assistance (TA) hub and a service delivery partner, ensuring that our interventions are both strategic and impactful. We prioritize high-impact interventions and leverage data for decision-making to ensure that our efforts are targeted and effective.

TAConnect have footprint across five (5) out of the six (6) geopolitical zones in Nigeria North-Central – Nasarawa, Niger, North-East – Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Yobe. North-West – Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto. South-West – Lagos, South-South – Akwa Ibom and Rivers with the capacity to scale across the 36 states and the federal capital.

Background

TAConnect has established itself as a respected Technical Assistance delivery platform working with state governments to strengthen Primary Healthcare (PHC) systems and increase uptake of RMNCAH+N services. We operate a hybrid model that combines our grant making expertise to curate and deploy comprehensive, cohesive, and cost-effective technical assistance and institutional strengthening support to governments at both national and subnational and a robust service delivery capability to strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes.

This approach allows TAConnect to not only manage the selection and deployment of technical assistance but also to operate as a service delivery partner at the last mile, ensuring that technical solutions are effectively implemented in local contexts.

As TAConnect evolves, we aspire to become the most dynamic and diverse health service provider and a hub for the largest network of partner organizations addressing Nigeria’s development challenges. TAConnect also aims to attain international presence within the period.

In this context, TAConnect is seeking the services from an experienced consultant to lead and support the development of the organization’s strategic plan 2025-2029. This strategy is guided by two critical principles: firstly, being a service delivery provider, and secondly, Nigeria’s fastest growing grant making organization.

The strategic plan 2025-2029 developed through this consultancy will provide a framework for TAConnect to deliver context specific interventions and grants management with a focus across health and other health-related sectors that align with government priority, thereby making a lasting impact on the lives of the people we serve.

Job Description:

The Strategic Plan Development Consultant will develop a comprehensive Revised Strategic Plan 2025-2029 to provide a framework for TAConnect to deliver context specific interventions and grants management with a focus across health and other health-related sectors that align with government priority, thereby making a lasting impact on the lives of the people we serve. He/she will also ensure adherence to TAConnects’ policies and donor regulations in the states.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

1. Contextual and Market Analysis:

• Conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current socio-economic, political, and funding landscape that affects TAConnect.
• Analyze existing data and feedback from various sources such as staff surveys, assessment reports, and consultations with the TAConnect partners and program participants to assess internal capabilities and external perceptions.
• Perform market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and challenges in resource mobilization and partnership development.

1. Development of Strategic Document:

• Facilitate meetings with key stakeholders and develop a Theory of Change (ToC) that outlines the intended impacts, target populations, and pathways for achieving strategic goals.
• Use participatory approaches to ensure diverse viewpoints are considered, particularly focusing on integrating insights from board and staff.
• Draft the strategic planning document, incorporating the Theory of Change, strategic objectives, and key initiatives planned for the period of 2025-2029.

1. Prioritization of Programs and Initiatives:

• Guide TAConnect Leadership in prioritizing program/impact areas and initiatives based on the analysis, organizational goals, and global funding drivers based on comprehensive analysis, organizational objectives, and alignment with global funding drivers.
• Help define clear strategic objectives that align with TAConnect’s vision and the specific context of Nigeria.

1. Development and Integration of Accountability Systems:

• Assist in the development of robust accountability mechanisms that ensure compliance with international standards and organizational values.
• Outline processes for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the strategic plan to track progress and impact effectively.

1. Finalization and Approval of Strategic Plan:

• Compile feedback and revisions from TAConnect’s Leadership and other stakeholders to finalize the strategic plan.
• Present the final strategic plan for approval from the executive team and board of directors.

1. Documentation and Reporting:

• Prepare comprehensive documentation of the strategic planning process, including detailed reports on findings, workshop outcomes, and strategic recommendations.
• Submit a final report that encapsulates the entire process, outcomes, and next steps for implementation.

Methodology

The consultant will propose an appropriate methodology that would best suit the assignment within the tentative planned period from May – July 2025. This will be reviewed as part of the assessment process. The consultant will ensure that the principle of inclusion, transparency, participatory people centered process/methods are at the core of the review process and report.

Key Deliverables

1. An inception report outlining the steps and methodology to be used in developing the TAConnect’s Strategic Plan 2025-2029.
2. A comprehensive context analysis report.
3. A five-year Strategic Plan 2025-2029 with clear deliverables, key milestones, and direct guidance on implementation to strengthen TAConnect’s mission and vision.
4. Present the draft strategic plan to stakeholders to validate.
5. A final report summarizing the methodology, process, findings, and recommendations of the strategic planning process.

Job Qualifications:

• University degree, preferably a PhD or master’s degree, in Organizational Development, Social Sciences, Business Management, Strategic Planning, or other closely related fields.
• At least 10 years’ proven extensive experience in nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), in strategic planning/management, organizational development and management, grant management and program design and related experiences
• Strong understanding and experience in diversified civil society organizations (CSOs) strengthening
• Seasoned development and/or humanitarian expert with a robust understanding of Nigeria, equipped with excellent strategic writing skills and a profound understanding of local socio-economic, cultural, and political dynamics.
• Strong understanding of resource mobilization, including developing business/presence models.
• Deep understanding of healthcare, RMNCHN+M, and international development, with the ability to integrate these aspects into strategic planning and program design.
• Excellent facilitation skills and experience in managing inclusive and participatory processes, capable of guiding diverse groups through complex, sensitive discussions and strategic decision-making processes.
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent English writing skills.
• Demonstrated experience using participatory approaches in conducting assessments and facilitating strategic planning processes, ensuring diverse and equitable stakeholder engagement.

Duration Of Assignment

The expected duration of the assignment is forty (40) working days spread over the period from May to July 2025.

Supervision

The consultant will be technically managed by the Executive Director and will work closely and regularly with the Business Development and Core Team. The consultant with liaise with the Director Finance, Administration, and Operations for administrative and operational needs.

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates should apply by sending their updated Resume, and their Cover Letter detailing their interest in the position to hr@taconnect-ng.org using the Job Title “Strategic Plan Development Consultant” as the subject of the mail. All applications should be sent on or before 11:59 PM Nigerian Time, 21st May 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; therefore, early submission is advised. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.