PROJECT BACKGROUND:

We are implementing a project, titled “Gilgit-Baltistan Local Area Development Programme (Diamer) Region,” in District Diamer. It focuses on enhancing ecosystem services and management, improving local livelihoods, and increasing climate resilience through community-based initiatives in Chilas and other areas of Diamer. The overall goal of the project is to contribute to poverty alleviation through climate-resilient sustainable development.

The key objectives of the project are:

1. Developing bio-physical ecosystem management practices to supply ecosystem services.
2. Developing governance capacity for ecosystem management, including climate sensitive gender mainstreaming.
3. Developing economic instruments to promote desired ecosystem results.
4. Promote renewable energy solutions for green growth and development.

The Expected Results (ERs) of the project are:

1. Improved biophysical ecosystem management practices through provision of ecosystem services.
2. Strengthened governance capacity for ecosystem management, with a focus on climate sensitive gender mainstreaming.
3. Enhanced economic instruments effectively promote desired ecosystem outcomes.
4. Increased access to renewable energy solution delivering environmental, economic, and social benefits.

Objective of the Consultancy

To lead the development and implementation of cost-benefit analyses, financial models, and economic instruments that incentivize ecosystem conservation and sustainable practices. The consultant will evaluate the economic and ecological impacts of ecosystem conservation initiatives, and this role will play a critical part in shaping policy and investment decisions by balancing environmental sustainability with economic development and social welfare. The Consultant will assess the effectiveness of economic instruments, develop financial models, and provide actionable insights to inform strategies that enhance both ecological and community outcomes.

Scope of Work and Expected Outputs/Deliverables

Main Activities

Cost-Benefit Analysis

• Conduct comprehensive cost-benefit analyses of ecosystem conservation initiatives, considering direct and indirect environmental, social, and economic impacts.
• Assess long-term social, economic, and environmental returns of various incentive models.

Economic Instrument Design

• Develop models such as Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) tailored to local context.
• Develop incentive programs that reward communities for adopting sustainable practices, including biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, and water quality improvement.

Financial Modeling

• Utilize advanced financial modeling techniques to project future costs and benefits of conservation strategies.
• Incorporate ecological variables such as biodiversity impacts and carbon sequestration rates into models.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, community leaders, and other stakeholders to align economic strategies with ecological and community goals.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions to build capacity in financial management for conservation.

Policy and Reporting

• Prepare detailed reports summarizing findings, financial models, and policy recommendations for decision-makers.
• Document lessons learned and best practices to inform future conservation initiatives.

Expected Outputs

• Comprehensive cost-benefit analysis report for targeted ecosystem conservation initiatives.
• Detailed economic instruments strategy, including PES and other incentives.
• Financial models projecting the economic and ecological outcomes of proposed conservation strategies.
• Stakeholder engagement reports and training/ workshop materials.
• Final consultancy report summarizing all findings, analyses, and recommendations.

Methodology
The consultant will adopt a participatory and data-driven approach to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of proposed strategies. Activities will include:

• Desk research on existing policies and global best practices.
• Data collection through field visits, surveys, and stakeholder consultations.
• Financial modeling and scenario analysis using advanced software tools.
• Regular engagement with stakeholders to ensure alignment with project objectives.

Time Frame and Input

The consultancy will span 6 months.

Key Qualifications of Consultant

• Advanced degree in Finance, Engineering, Environmental Economics, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in financial management, economic analysis, or ecosystem management initiatives.
• Proven expertise in cost-benefit analysis and financial modeling for conservation projects.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, R, or similar software.
• Strong communication skills for presenting financial and technical information to non-experts.

Deliverable & Reporting Requirements

Deliverables

The consultant will provide the following deliverables:

 Reporting Requirements:

The consultant will report directly to the Regional Coordinator, providing regular updates and ensuring alignment with project goals. Deliverables will include detailed reports, presentations, and documentation as outlined in the schedule above.

Note

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. All selected candidates will undergo comprehensive background checks. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage female candidates to apply.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
This job description outlines the essential responsibilities and qualifications necessary for the role. Adjustments can be made based on organizational needs or changes in operational requirements.