The RDI Network is currently seeking expressions of interest for a consultant futurist, to lead the design, implementation and documentation of its 2020 Development Futures Project.
Why this project?
In 2020, as the world grapples with the challenges of responding to a pandemic, the need to generate in-depth conversations about development effectiveness and the future of aid and development is more urgent than ever. The far-reaching effects of the pandemic have also compounded the effects of other recent changes in global aid and the Australian development industry.
These changes include the rise of the private sector, climate change, growing instability, trust in institutions and renewed calls for genuine localisation processes, as examples. Against this backdrop, the RDI Network’s 2020 Development Futures project aims to the raise the level of conversation and understanding of development effectiveness, and be a catalyst for changes in development ideas, discourse and thinking. The project aims to draw specifically on development futures thinking (alternatively termed horizon scanning or foresight activity planning) as a proven methodology for supporting practitioners to critically deconstruct and re-imagine development thinking.
Download the full call for expressions of interest here.
What needs to be delivered?
The consultant will support the project steering group to develop a detailed project plan for the delivery of two key project deliverables:
- Development scenario planning workshops: a series of workshops hosted for participants to discuss, debate and plan for changing futures of development (online or offline depending on COVID-19 restrictions).
- Engage broader public learning: Develop public communications products produced and disseminated to further engage the RDI Network’s membership
This project will be implemented over a twelve-month period, July 2020 – June 2021.
Who’s managing this project?
The project will be managed by Jen Branscombe, RDI Network Officer and Dr Philippa Smales, RDI Network and Partnerships Manager, to whom the consultant(s) will report. The RDI Network steering group will also engage at key points during the process to provide input, ideas and high-level oversight.
The consultant(s) must also be available for regular teleconferences with the steering group. Final approval of the deliverables will be the responsibility of the steering group.
What is the selection criteria?
The consultant(s) will be expected to have:
- Demonstrated experience in design and delivery of projects utilising development futures methodologies
- Demonstrated ability to facilitate engaging and participation workshop sessions, including in online environments
- Demonstrated experience in, or an understanding of, international development
- Demonstrated writing skills with an ability to write for multiple audiences;•Ability to establish good working relationships and consult with a diverse group of stakeholders in the production of materials
How to submit an expression of interest:
Please send our Expression of Interest by COB Tuesday 21 July to Jen Branscombe, RDI Network Officer, at [email protected]
Please include the following in your EOI:
- A capacity statement on your / your team’s suitability, experience and availability to undertake the scope of services as described in the terms of reference and the above selection criteria (max 2 pages)
- A brief statement of the proposed approach for the project with a detailed timeline (max 2 pages)
- Brief samples or a link to two original samples of your own / your teams work; and
- An accompanying budget inclusive of a daily rate (in line with the DFAT Aid Adviser Remuneration Framework) and anticipated administrative costs (+GST)
Questions can be directed to Jen Branscombe via email at [email protected]. The RDI Network works in partnership with the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) and has a secretariat based in Melbourne.
Download the full call for expressions of interest here.
*Please note: The RDI Network Secretariat are currently working from home due to COVID-19 restrictions. The selected candidate/s will also be expected to work from home for the foreseeable future.
