Learning Report and Strategic Plan Development Consultant

1. Background

RDFL is a feminist, grassroots and membership-based organization working to advance gender equality through advocacy, networking and solidarity work in Lebanon. It was established in 1976. Our values are rooted in non-discriminatory, secular feminism, democracy, transparency and intersectionality. Our work focuses on creating an enabling environment where girls and women are protected and empowered to be agents of change.

RDFL’s vision is to achieve equality between women and men in all spheres, and to provide protection from gender-based violence.

RDFL’s mission is to work on and advocate for the elimination of gender-based violence and all forms of discrimination, and to achieve full citizenship for women through a widespread and empowered membership and in collaboration with civil society.

RDFL has been operating since 1976, in a rapidly changing environment, RDFL with the support of Diakonia need to develop a new strategic plan to ensure its continued relevance, effectiveness, and sustainability. This plan will guide the organization's work for the next 3 to 5 years, starting 2026.

2. Purpose of the Consultancy

The purpose of this consultancy is to engage an experienced consultant to facilitate the development both the learning report of a comprehensive and actionable strategic plan for RDFL. This plan will provide a clear roadmap for the organization to achieve its mission and vision, enhance its impact, and strengthen its organizational capacity.

3. Scope of Work

The consultant will be responsible for:

1. Situational Analysis:

• Conduct a deep review of RDFL's existing documentation, including previous strategic plans, annual reports last strategic plan’s life time.
• Conduct an external environment analysis, including political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental (PESTLE) factors, as well as stakeholder analysis.
• Conduct a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of RDFL.
• Conduct KIIs and needs assessments and consultations with key stakeholders, including staff, board members, partners, and donors. 

2. Learning and Strategic Planning Process:

• Facilitate a participatory and inclusive learning and strategic planning process, involving all relevant stakeholders.
• Define strategic goals and objectives that are SMART.
• Identify key strategies and activities to achieve the strategic goals.
• Develop a results framework or logical framework (log frame) that outlines the expected outcomes and impact of the strategic plan.
• Develop a risk assessment and mitigation plan. 

3. Operational Planning and Implementation:

• Develop an implementation plan that outlines the roles and responsibilities, timelines, and resources required for implementing the strategic plan.
• Develop indicators per year to track progress and measure impact.
• Develop a communication and advocacy strategy to promote the strategic plan in coordination with the communication and advocacy focal people with RDFL.

Deliverables:

• Inception action plan, outlining the consultant's understanding of the TOR and proposed methodology.
• Prepare a questionnaire that aims at pre-collection of information from internal departments and programs’ focal people.
• Conduct a one day for learnings and two-day Strategic planning workshop with board members, head of departments, programs and active members
• Draft learning report and strategic plan for review and feedback.
• Final strategic plan, incorporating feedback from stakeholders.
• Hole one day with the general assembly and executive team and board to validate the SP.
• Implementation plan and monitoring and evaluation framework.
• Presentation of the strategic plan to the board and staff.

4. Consultant Qualifications and Experience

The consultant should possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Advanced degree in social sciences, law, development studies, business administration, or a related field.  
• Minimum 10 years of experience in strategic planning and organizational development in the NGO sector.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting situational analyses, stakeholder consultations, and participatory planning processes.
• Strong understanding of results-based management and monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
• Excellent facilitation, communication, and writing skills.
• Experience working in GBV and protection sector is obligatory.

5. Timeframe

The consultancy is expected to be completed by end of august, starting from June, 2025. A detailed work plan will be agreed upon with the selected consultant.

6. Reporting and Supervision

The consultant will report to assigned focal person by the higher management. Regular progress meetings will be held to ensure the consultant's work is aligned with the TOR.

7. Budget and Payment

The consultant's fees will be negotiated based on their experience and qualifications. Payment will be made in installments upon submission and approval of deliverables.