Consultancy: Humanitarian MEAL Expert- Global Humanitarian MEAL Framework

Background

HelpAge International is a global network of over 199 organisations in more than 98 countries, dedicated to supporting older people to live safe, dignified, and healthy lives. Our mission is to ensure the inclusion of older people in all aspects of society. We work closely with partners and collaborators to advocate for a world where people of all ages are treated with respect.

With funding from GFFO, HelpAge is implementing a project in Syria and Lebanon, through local partners. The project aims to increase access and use of inclusive protection and health services that contribute to improved security, dignity, and wellbeing for most at-risk Syrian IDPs and refugees as well as host-community members with a focus on older people and people with disabilities in NW Syria and Lebanon.

HelpAge is developing a global Humanitarian MEAL Framework as part of our overarching Global Humanitarian Strategy. In light of the current GFFO project, HelpAge is seeking an experienced Humanitarian MEAL expert to design a partner-focused, CHS-driven MEAL framework to ensure it aligns with global best practices and is responsive to the needs of our organisation, partners and older people we serve in Syria, Lebanon and beyond.

Objectives

The consultancy’s objective is to design, review and provide expert guidance on HelpAge International’s MEAL Framework for the Syria-Lebanon GFFO project, which in turn will inform HelpAge’s Global Humanitarian MEAL Framework. The consultant will ensure that the framework aligns with global best practices, such as Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS), and is tailored to HelpAge’s unique operating model of partner-led implementation. The consultant will collaborate with internal stakeholders and local partners, conduct key informant interviews, and undertake a literature review to finalise a framework that is practical, effective, and implementable. The consultant will also support the planning of the training phase for local partners and recommend necessary refinements.

Scope of Work

The consultant will work closely with HelpAge staff and partners throughout the project. The scope includes:

• Consultation: Participate in regular consultations with the Humanitarian Programme Managers and key stakeholders to ensure alignment of objectives and expectations. Maintain consistent communication throughout the consultancy.
• Research and Review: Conduct a thorough review of external MEAL best practices and internal strategies to develop a comprehensive, adaptable MEAL framework for the GFFO project, HelpAge and its partners.
• Framework Finalisation: Based on pilot feedback and ongoing consultation, refine and finalise the GFFO project’s MEAL Framework and Global Humanitarian MEAL Framework to ensure it is implementable, adaptable, and capacity-sensitive.

Timeframe

The assignment is expected to be conducted over a period from March 2025 to June 2025. The total number of working days for this consultancy is estimated at approximately 10 days over this period, which will cover the desk review, interviews, framework refinement, training support, and action plan development.

Payment Schedule

• 30% upon completion of the initial desk review, key informant interviews, and delivery of a draft framework.
• 70% upon submission and acceptance of the final Global Humanitarian MEAL Framework, including the action plan and revisions.

Qualifications and Experience

The ideal candidate will have:

• Humanitarian MEAL Expertise: Extensive experience in designing, reviewing, and implementing MEAL strategies, frameworks or SOPs for humanitarian programmes, with proven knowledge of global best practices and standards, including CHS.
• Partner Collaboration Experience: Demonstrated experience in working with both local and international partners in humanitarian settings, with a focus on developing adaptable MEAL frameworks suitable for diverse capacities.
• Analytical and Research Skills: Proven ability to conduct detailed literature reviews and contextual analyses that inform strategic documents. Strong analytical thinking is essential.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to conduct interviews, facilitate discussions, and deliver concise, actionable reports that address complex issues in a clear, structured manner.