MOD | 99 | USPSC-Senior Economic Advisor for USAID/Sana'a, Yemen

FBO DAILY ISSUE OF MARCH 13, 2004 FBO #0838
MODIFICATION

99 -- USPSC-Senior Economic Advisor for USAID/Sana'a, Yemen

Notice Date: 3/11/2004
Notice Type: Modification
NAICS: 541990 — All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
Contracting Office: Agency for International Development, Overseas Missions, Egypt USAID-Cairo, Department of State Unit #64902, APO, AE, 09839
ZIP Code: 09839
Solicitation Number: 279-04-004
Response Due: 3/31/2004
Point of Contact: Samia Joseph, Human Resources Officer, Phone 202-522-7180, Fax 202-522-7197, - Nancy Rofael, HR Clerk, Phone 202-522-7182, Fax 202-516-4628,
E-Mail Address: sjoseph@usaid.gov, nrofael@usaid.gov
Description: Solicitation No. RFP# 279-04-004 ISSUANCE DATE: February 11, 2004 CLOSING DATE: 4:30 pm Cairo time on March 31, 2004 SUBJECT: USAID/ Sana?a, Yemen - Solicitation for U.S. Personal Services Contractor [USPSC] For Senior Economic Advisor Ladies/Gentlemen: The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking applications from U.S. citizens or U.S. resident alien, that are able to obtain a secret security clearance, interested in providing PSC services as described in the attached solicitation. Submissions shall be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified and must include signed SF-171 or OF-612 and a written statement that responds to the requirements of the position (Economic Development/ Experience Required for the position). Any questions on this solicitation may be directed to Samia Joseph, Human Resources Officer, USAID/Egypt, EXO, who may be reached at fax#: 011-202-522-7197, tel.#: 011-202-522-7180, and email address: sjoseph@usaid.gov. Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their applications. All applications and the required documents should be submitted to: EXO/HR/US - USAID/ Egypt U.S. Mail Air courier Virginie Gabra Virginie Gabra Human Resources Clerk Human Resources Clerk EXO/HR/US EXO/HR/US USAID/ Egypt- Unit 64902 USAID/ Egypt APO AE 09839-4902 Plot 1/A off Laselki St, New Maadi, Cairo, Egypt Postal Code 11435 For those who wish to send their application via pouch, please also send your application & CV by Email attachment (vgabra@usaid.gov) or FAX ((202) 522-7197) to ensure receipt of your application before the closing date. Application forms, USG Standard Form 171(SF-171) and Optional Form 612(OF-612) can be located at: http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/forms/SF171/sf171.pdf http://inside.usaid.gov/forms/for snumeric.html Offerors are requested to provide their full mailing address and contact information (telephone, fax or email). The U.S. Government is under no obligation to award a contract based on this notice. Sincerely, Samia Joseph HR Officer SOLICITATION NUMBER: RFP# 279-04-004 ISSUANCE DATE: February 11, 2004 CLOSING DATE/TIME: 4:30 pm Cairo time on March 16, 2004 POSITION TITLE: Senior Economic Advisor MARKET VALUE: GS-14 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: 2 years with possibility of extension. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/Sana?a, Yemen. SECURITY ACCESS: SECRET AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S. Citizens or U.S. resident alien who are able to obtain a secret security clearance. A. ORGANIZATIONAL LOCATION OF POSITION: Office of the USAID Representative, US Embassy, Sana?a, Yemen B. POSITION TITLE OF DIRECT SUPERVISOR: The USAID Representative to Yemen. C. SUPERVISORY CONTROLS: The Senior Economic Advisor will work in tandem with the Economic Program Specialist (FSN) to form the USAID/Yemen Economic Support Team. The USAID Representative will review and approve the contractor?s work plan and performance measures. The incumbent will be expected to work independently, take initiative, and be responsible for advising on all aspects of USG supported economic program activities. In carrying out specific assignments, the incumbent will work closely with senior representatives from The Republic of Yemen Government (ROYG), international donor organizations, local and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and senior U.S. Government (USG) officials at the US Embassy/Sana?a, USAID/Cairo and USAID/Washington. S/He will be expected to coordinate and collaborate with the Embassy?s Pubic Diplomacy Economic and Cultural Affairs unit. D. STRATEGY AND CONTEXT 1. USAID/Yemen Interim Strategy, 2003-2006 In May 2003, an interim strategy was approved for Yemen. The interim strategy contains the following framework for a newly established economic growth component: Agency Objective: Broad-based Economic Growth and Agricultural Development Encouraged Strategic Objective 279-007: Increased Income Opportunities and Food Security in Selected Governorates IR 7.1 Expanded Sustainable Production of Rural Economic Products for the Market and Home Consumption IR 7.2 Expanded Markets for Rural Economic Products IR 7.3 Improved Framework for Economic Growth 2. Context: Yemen is a crucial ally in the US-led war against terrorism. The capacity of Yemen to fulfill its role as an ally, however, is dependent upon its ability to decrease poverty and improve its overall economic performance. According to a 1998 World Bank study, 18% of the Yemeni population live in absolute poverty, and 42% of the population are incapable of meeting their food and non-food requirements. Most of Yemen?s poor live in the countryside, who rely to a large degree on imported food, at subsidized prices. Oil income, an important component to the national economy, is forecasted to decline steadily well into the future and will soon be a negligible source of foreign earnings. Agriculture: Yemen is predominantly rural (75%) and the agricultural sector plays an important role in the Yemeni economy, not because of its contribution to GDP ? though small and declining (24% of GDP in 1990 - 15% in 2000) ? but because it provides employment to more than half (61%) of the labor force, livelihood to more than three-quarters of the population, and contributes about a third of total non-oil merchandize exports. Potential for growth in key sectors: The World Bank believes that ?rapid employment-generating economic growth (in Yemen) will only be possible if agriculture, fishing, tourism and manufacturing lead the way. (However) Rising domestic security concerns, excessive and arbitrary regulations in infrastructure and services, weak legal and judicial systems, and difficulties in securing land titles hamper output expansion in most of these sectors??(furthermore)??reliance on domestic demand limits the prospects for faster and sustained GDP growth. The impact of policy reforms (flexibility of the exchange rate and trade liberalization) made a significant impact on the competitiveness and good performance of exports. Such gains need to be preserved and enhanced by deeper liberalization and improvement in trade-related infrastructure and services.? Trade: Yemen is considered by the World Bank to be among the most open and trade liberalized countries in the MENA region. Nonetheless, most of Yemen?s current non-oil exports remain primary, low value-added products which also make economic growth more vulnerable to volatility in price and demand. Government Policy: The ROYG would like to improve human capacity particularly among women, enhance living standards, lower population growth rates, diversify the economy away from dependence on oil revenue, and raise per capita income. Structural Adjustment: US$550 million in financing was extended to Yemen from 1995-2001 by the World Bank, the IMF and bilateral donors to support a ROYG economic reform process that resulted in a unified and liberalized the exchange regime, reduced subsidies on fuels and wheat, a restructured banking sector, simplified and liberalized trade, a reduced external debt burden, and improve monetary policy and control. In an October 2002 meeting in Paris, donors pledged a US$2.3bn economic support package to support the Yemen poverty reduction and growth facility (PRGF) for economic development. Key elements in phase two include: strengthening governance, civil service reform, decentralization, judicial reform, fiscal revenue and expenditure reform including tax system reform to broaden the tax base and enhance revenue collection and reductions in non-productive spending including diesel oil subsidies which cost 3% of GDP. 3. USAID Development Response Although the primary concentration in SO-007 will be on the agriculture sector USAID will allocate some funds for technical assistance to the ROYG to investigate opportunities for expanded exports and trade and to support the ROYG Central Statistical Office to improve data for development planning. The activities under SO 297-007 are illustrated within the three Intermediate Results in the Strategy: IR 7.1 Expanded Sustainable Production of Rural Economic Products for the Market and Home Consumption USAID will assist GoY to improve crop and livestock specification and improve growing techniques; reduce wastage; improve access to inputs (e.g. seeds, feed); support community-based producers associations; expand access to electricity; assist businesses that support the agriculture sector; technical support to women food producers for consumption in the home through community-based outreach. IR 7.2 Expanded Markets for Rural Economic Products USAID will support improved access to infrastructure (e.g. electricity, roads) for agricultural related businesses; improve product quality, processing and packaging; support private sector marketing co-ops; expanded access to credit; market research and development; marketing and advertising; expanding regional and international partnerships. IR 7.3 Improved Framework for Economic Growth USAID will assist Yemeni higher education and research institutions to support the private sector in agriculture and business; establish business information centers; technical assistance to the Ministry of Agriculture and other Ministries and to district and governorate agriculture and economic development offices; targeted research to identify opportunities to expand exports and increase investment in new businesses; technical assistance to assist the ROYG increase trade opportunities; technical assistance to ROYG at all national, governorate and district levels to collect and use agriculture and other commercial data for planning. I. Basic Functions of the Position The USPSC will serve as the senior economic advisor to USAID and the U.S. Embassy. This program is anticipated to receive approximately $4 - $12 million in annual funding over the next 3-5 years from all sources. In tandem with the senior program specialist, s/he will be expected to coordinate with senior level ROYG officials at the national and provincial levels, local economic institutions, local and international non-governmental organizations, and other donors to achieve program objectives, as identified in the Yemen Interim Strategy above. The incumbent will be supervising one FSN-Agriculture Development Specialist. II. Specific Duties and Responsibilities The Senior Economic Advisor will be expected to, in order of priority: 1. Serve as the Senior Advisor for the USAID/Yemen Economic Development Program: In conjunction with USAID staff, develop strategies and programs for new activities, which may include  Agricultural programs, including those aimed at improvements in household food security and productivity;  Trade and investment activities (including trade capacity building);  Business and agribusiness association development and training; and  Economic policy development at the local and national level. Insure that planned results are being achieved in an efficient and timely manner, consistent with USAID regulations and policies. Identify and work with partners to seek resolution of issues affecting the achievement of results. Monitor program implementation through site visits and close contact with groups involved in implementing economic activities. Advisor will work with partners to develop relevant indicators and to develop data collection systems and monitoring strategies for ongoing and new activities. Conduct analysis of current economic trends and key policy and operational constraints that Yemen needs to overcome to achieve broad-based economic growth, in order to inform Mission management and influence the ROYG on appropriate goals for public policy and private business development in Yemen, particularly in sectors that offer the greatest employment generation and economic returns to investment opportunities. Serve as Cognizant Technical Officer for various contracts and grants. Prepare all requisite USAID documentation including semi-annual program reports, annual R4 reports, and scopes or statements of work and/or program descriptions. Incumbent will also prepare additional reports, as required, to brief the US Embassy and USAID on specific issues or situations impacting program success. 2. Carry Out and Support Policy Dialogue with Senior Government and Donors officials: The incumbent will work with implementing partners to identify key policy constraints/issues that impede the success of USG, other donor and the Government?s programs to improve the economic system in Yemen. Working with USAID-funded implementing partners, the contractor will raise these issues and recommended courses of action in discussions with senior ROYG representatives, donor coordination meetings, and discussions with key advocacy networks emerging in Yemen. Effort will focus on enlisting support from other donors, senior government officials, and from civil society organizations for policy changes that will overcome program implementation issues or facilitate replication of positive program results to other provinces in the country. 3. Provide Technical Guidance and Support: The Senior Economic Advisor will provide technical guidance and support to USAID-funded implementing partner organizations in the development, implementation, and monitoring/evaluation of program activities. III. Other Relationships: The incumbent will be expected to develop and maintain a collaborative, professional relationship with senior members of the US Embassy in Sana?a, senior ROYG officials at both the national, governorate, district, and local levels, and with representatives of other donor organizations supporting economic programs in Yemen, and with USAID-funded implementing partners. IV. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE POSITION The Senior Economic Advisor shall have the following qualifications. Note that in order to be considered, the applicant shall meet those qualifications marked ?required. 1. At least 10 years? experience designing and implementing development programs, of which at least eight years working in developing countries, in economic policy reform, economic program design, management, and evaluation, decentralized/devolved government administration ? especially related to social sector programs. (REQUIRED) 2. Proven familiarity with international economic development issues including trade capacity development and markets. 3. Demonstrated satisfactory program management and problem solving skills. 4. Demonstrated satisfactory interpersonal and communication skills, especially related to policy dialogue with senior government officials and program coordination with other donors. 5. First-hand experience of Yemen and facility in the Arabic language preferred. 6. Understanding of USAID policies, procedures, regulations, and reporting requirements preferred. 7. A minimum of a MS or MA in field related to economic development with a focus on private sector development, applied economics, trade and investment and market development. (REQUIRED) 8. Demonstrated ability to communicate (spoken and written) at a university level in fluent English. 9. Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident alien and be able to obtain a secret security clearance. (REQUIRED) 10. Ability to begin work in Yemen by June 2004. V. SELECTION CRITERIA Candidates will be evaluated according to the following criteria: 1. Experience (40 points): a) At least ten years? experience designing and implementing economic development programs, of which at least eight years have been working in developing countries. Prior professional and field experience designing and implementing economic or related programs and knowledge of the range of best practices from prior donor economic development experiences from around the world will be considered a significant strength. b) Demonstrated satisfactory experience managing complex programs in complex development environments. Demonstrated ability to successfully cultivate and maintain a wide range of contacts with senior government, donor and NGO counterparts. c) Prior experience assisting governments identify and implement alternative approaches to the provision of economic services. 2. Education and Training (30 points): a) Minimum of a MS or MA in field related to economic development with a focus on private sector development, applied economics, trade and investment and markets development. b) Training and experience in operational research and analysis. 3. Communication and Interpersonal Skills (30 points): a) University level English speaking, reading and writing proficiency (absolute requirement). Candidates will be expected to provide a recent sample of their writing. b) An ability to speak Modern Standard Arabic at the Speaking-2, Reading-2 proficiency, based on the Foreign Service Institute scale, would be very desirable. c) Demonstrated ability to work collegially, and effectively communicate with senior government and other officials and to successfully lead and work with a multi-cultural team. d) Demonstrated ability to cultivate and maintain a wide range of contacts with senior counterparts. Total points: 100 points VI. APPLYING: Qualified individuals are requested to submit: (1) A curriculum vitae which demonstrates how the candidate's qualifications meet the work requirements; (2) A completed and signed SF-171 or OF-612; (3) A relevant writing sample of not more than 10 pages; (4) Names, contact numbers, and addresses of three professional references; (5) A written statement certifying the date and length of time for which the candidate is available for the position. The U.S. Government Standard Form 171 or Optional Form 612 is available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/ or at Federal offices (Note: applicants who submit the SF-171 will be considered as having submitted the proper forms for consideration. However, since the SF-171 has been updated through the OF-612, candidates should strive to submit using the OF-612 and attaching a resume). To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in any cover letter. The highest ranking applicants may be selected for an interview. Applicants may choose any of the methods in the Cover Page to submit their applications but USAID accepts no responsibility for delay in transit, mis-routing, etc. Submissions shall be in accordance with the above information at the place and time specified. Given the often intermittent problems people experience in the world with fax and email, all candidates are notified that, should they choose to utilize this method, they should confirm with the USAID/Cairo Human Resources office that all documentation submitted was received prior to the closing date of this notice. Equipment failures at USAID or by the applicants? network are not acceptable reasons for late submission, as candidates have the option of sending their application hard copy by courier. No, repeat no, applications will be considered after the closing time and date, and it is the applicant?s full responsibility to ensure that all their documentation has been received by our office. Yemen is currently an ?accompanied post? for spouses. At present, dependants under the age of 21 are not permitted at post. Nevertheless, education and/or separate maintenance allowances will be provided. VII. TYPE AND DURATION OF APPOINTMENT: Employment shall be through an A.I.D. Personal Services Contract for a period of two years with possibility of extension. This Personal Services Contract is subject to the availability of funds. VIII. BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES: As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, an offshore USPSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances: BENEFITS: Employee's FICA Contribution Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance Pay Comparability Adjustment Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service Annual Increase APO mail service as per post policy ALLOWANCES (If Applicable):* (1) Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120) (2) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130) (3) Post Allowance (Section 220) (4) Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230) (5) Post Differential (Chapter 500) (6) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) and (7) Danger Pay (Section 650) (8) Educational Allowance (Section 270) (9) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260) (10)Educational Travel (Section 280) * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). FEDERAL TAXES: USPSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes. IX. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCS Forms outlined below can be found at http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/ 1. Standard Form 171 or Optional Form 612. 2. Contractor Physical Examination (AID Form 1420-62). ** 3. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security) (SF-86), or ** 4. Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85). ** 5. Finger Print Card (FD-258). ** ** Forms 2 through 5 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. X. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBS) PERTAINING TO PSCS CIBs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to this website http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/ to determine which CIBS apply to this contract.
Place of Performance: Address: USAID/Sana'a, Yemen, 6330 Sana'a Place, Dulles VA; Zip Code: 20189; Country: Yemen
Record: SN00542226-W 20040313/040311221529 (fbodaily.com)
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99 -- USPSC-Senior Economic Advisor for USAID/Sana'a, Yemen