Mercy Corps is seeking a consultant to develop a practical guideline for integrating safe programming into partnerships with private sector actors involved in Market Systems Development (MSD) programs within the East & Southern Africa (ESA) region. This initiative is part of Mercy Corps' commitment to Safe, Diverse, and Inclusive (SDI) programming and aims to strengthen inclusive partnerships that are operationally effective, accountable, ethical, and protective of communities and staff.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in International Development, Social Sciences, Human Rights, Law, or related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of proven expertise in Safe Programming, Safeguarding, Protection, CARM, and GESI in humanitarian and development contexts.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting similar assessments, evaluations, and developing strategic frameworks for international NGOs.
• Strong qualitative data collection and analysis skills, including Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and facilitating workshops (in-person and online).
• Excellent report writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Fluency in English is required.
• Experience working within the ESA context and with Mercy Corps' operating model is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assess current understanding of safe programming in partnerships, focusing on MSD programming and best practices with private sector actors in fragile markets.
• Conduct a literature review of existing safe programming guidance related to partnership management (GESI, Safeguarding, Protection, CARM).
• Facilitate consultations with implementing partners to explore their integration of safe programming practices.
• Facilitate a session to share lessons learned and explore integration with the New Program Management Policy.
• Develop a draft "Regional Safe Programming in partnership" guideline document.
• Outline guiding principles and a plan for socializing the framework.
• Develop presentation materials and co-lead a launching webinar for the final Guideline.
• Submit a concluding consultancy report summarizing the process, outcomes, and recommendations.

Benefits

• The consultancy is for 40 working days distributed between March 2026 and June 2026.

Application Process Interested candidates should submit their application through the Jobvite platform no later than March 15, 2026. The application should include:

• CV and Cover letter indicating suitability for the assignment and relevant experience.
• A Work Plan detailing the two phases of the consultancy, allocated days, and deliverable due dates.
• A financial proposal.

About Mercy Corps Mercy Corps is committed to ensuring that all individuals we come into contact with through our work are treated with respect and dignity. We are committed to the core principles regarding prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse. We will not tolerate child abuse, sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment. Team members are expected to conduct themselves professionally, respect local laws and customs, and adhere to Mercy Corps' Code of Conduct Policies and values.

Contact The Consultant will report to the Regional Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Advisor.