Economist Business Model Specialist (Consultancy)

NCA provides emergency relief during disasters, works on long-term development in local communities and tackles the root causes of poverty. We advocate for fair decisions by government agencies, businesses and religious leaders.

NCA has been operating in Northeast Nigeria since 2017, delivering humanitarian aid in conflict-affected areas. We work in four local government areas in Borno State in Northeast Nigeria: Dikwa, Monguno, Gwoza-Pulka and Maiduguri to save lives, alleviate suffering and protect the dignity of conflict-affected populations in:

• Gender-based violence (GBV),

• Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH)

• Climate-resilient water, sanitation and hygiene (CRWASH)

NCA is currently conducting a pilot project for fecal sludge treatment (FSM), which involves converting fecal sludge into briquettes and fertilizers.

NCA is looking for a consultant to conduct a market analysis and develop a business model for the briquettes and fertilizers. The consultant will evaluate the potential market and identify key opportunities and challenges. The findings of the market analysis can be used to inform the development of robust business models. The business model should outline key aspects such as target customer segments, value propositions, revenues and core activities.

The Advisor will be based at the NCA office in Maiduguri and will report to the WASH PM.

SCOPE OF WORK

1. Carry out a comprehensive market assessment for the products derived from faecal sludge, briquettes and fertilisers. The assessment should include, but not be limited to, the following elements:

• Market overview; market size, growth rates, competitors
• Regulatory environment: relevant regulations for the production, sale and use of briquettes and fertilizers made from fecal sludge
• Economic factors: economic factor that can affect the market including inflation and economic growth
• Demand Analysis: Consumer behavior and preferences regarding briquettes and fertilizers made from fecal sludge. Other factors that may drive demand, such as environmental concerns
• Price analysis: Current price levels for similar types of products and alternatives. Price level recommendation based on production costs, competitor prices, and consumer willingness to pay.
• Potential private partners and distribution channels.
• Value proposition: vision, mission and values
• Operational plan, including required machinery, purchasing of raw materials, logistics, staffing, etc.
• Financial forecasts, including revenue models based on market preferences and willingness to pay, key costs and profitability.
• Break-even analysis and financial viability assessment

1. Develop a robust and sustainable business model for briquettes and fertilizers from fecal sludge. The model should include, but not be limited to, the following elements:

• Essential partnerships and activities are needed
• Distribution and marketing channels to reach target customers

REPORTING AND DELIVERIES

• The advisor reports to the appropriate WASH programme manager or to the person responsible for this task.
• The advisor will keep you regularly updated on progress and a formal evaluation will take place at the end of each key milestone.
• The consultant must provide a comprehensive market analysis report for briquettes and fertilizers.
• The consultant will provide a detailed business model document, including all components described in the scope of work.
• A presentation summarizing the key findings and recommendations.
• The final results are submitted to the management team for review and approval.

COMMUNICATION AND REPRESENTATION:

• Represent the project at relevant meetings, workshops and conferences to promote the project objectives.
• Document and share the key achievements/impacts of the project implementation.
• Work with project partners and stakeholders to raise awareness about the project and its benefits.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 3-4 years of relevant experience
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in economics, business administration, agricultural economics or a related field.
• Demonstrable experience in conducting market analyses and developing business models.
• Strong analytical and strategic skills.
• Knowledge of the market and business climate in Northeastern Nigeria.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to deliver training programs and facilitate workshops to build capacity and knowledge among project beneficiaries.
• Knowledge of computer applications and data management software.
• Fluent English and local language are required.

TIMELINE

The assignment is expected to be completed within 04 months from the start date. A detailed project timeline with specific milestones and deadlines will be agreed upon at the start of the project.

THE NCA’S OBLIGATIONS

NCA strives to adhere to the policies, standards and agreements. All personnel are expected to adhere to the requirements of these:

• Humanitarian Accountability Partnership (HAP)
• Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Disaster Response
• ACT Alliance Code of Conduct
• SPHERE Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Management
• NCA Nigeria Safety Plan
• NCA Nigeria Employee Handbook

Prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse

Actively promote PSEA (Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse) standards within Norwegian Church Aid and among Norwegian Church Aid beneficiaries.

Compliance and Ethics:

Promotes and encourages a culture of compliance and ethics throughout Norwegian Church Aid. Maintains a clear understanding of Norwegian Church Aid and donor compliance and ethics standards as appropriate to the role and adheres to those standards. Conducts work with the highest level of integrity. Communicates these values ​​to staff and partners and requires them to adhere to these values

Other duties as assigned. The duties and responsibilities listed are representative of the nature and level of work assigned and are not necessarily all-inclusive.