Research and Technical Advisory Consultancy

About Lepra

Lepra is dedicated to addressing leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF) and their consequences through direct support, advocacy, and the promotion of inclusive communities. We work in Bangladesh and in India, through our sister organisation, LEPRA Society. We work in partnership with people affected by leprosy and LF to improve detection, ensure access to treatment and care, and promote inclusion and wellbeing. We have just finalised our new Global Strategy for 2024-30, which will guide us in our efforts to accelerate progress towards global targets for leprosy and LF, and towards our vision of a world free from leprosy and LF.

Background & Context to the Consultancy

Our new Global Strategy introduces some new approaches and priorities to our work, including: our first ever global Theory of Change (ToC), the most detailed Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) approach ever, and a sub-strategy dedicated to research, innovation and technology: the Global Research, Innovation and Technology Strategy (GRITS). With the finalisation of the new strategy, and as part of our ongoing commitment to improving our impact and efficiency, we are now seeking a consultant to provide specialised research support and technical advice.

Purpose & Objectives of the Consultancy

The primary objectives of this consultancy are to lead the transitional phase of the GRITS, creating a detailed operational plan for its implementation; support the management of the existing research portfolio ensuring technical soundness, budget adherence and timely delivery; establish a sustainable pathway for research expertise to be led by in-country professionals.

Scope of Work

The consultant will be responsible for the following key areas over a six-month period:

Strategy Transition Leadership

• Lead the transitional phase of the GRITS.
• Identify and address any gaps or challenges in the current strategy.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure alignment and smooth transition.

Operational Plan Management

• Develop a comprehensive operational plan for the rollout of the strategy.
• Establish the initial GRITS processes including the Go no Go; steering group established and functioning.
• Define clear timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
• Ensure the plan is realistic, achievable, and aligns with the charity’s objectives and resources.

Support Existing Research Profile

• Review and support ongoing research projects.
• Ensure all research activities are technically sound, within budget, and on time.
• Provide technical guidance and support to research teams.
• Provide ongoing mentoring and coaching to staff and partners.
• Ensure that data sets and tools are appropriately designed and employed.

Pathway to Sustainability

• Create a sustainability plan to ensure research expertise is transitioned to and led by in-country professionals.
• Develop capacity-building programmes for local researchers and institutions
• Establish mentorship and training frameworks to support local leadership in research.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including donors, research institutions, and community leaders.
• Facilitate collaboration and partnerships to enhance the research profile and strategy implementation.
• Ensure transparent and effective communication throughout the transition process.

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Develop and implement a monitoring and evaluation framework to track progress and impact of the strategy.
• Regularly report on progress, challenges, and achievements to the Lepra’s leadership team.
• Adjust plans and strategies based on feedback and evaluation results.

Safeguarding

• Support the implementation of newly developed processes in relation to the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation & Abuse (PSEA) and Safeguarding (SG).
• Ensure safeguarding measures are integrated into all project activities.

Outputs of the Consultancy

• Comprehensive operational plan for the global research, innovation, and technology strategy.
• Progress reports on the transitional phase and implementation status.
• Technical reviews and support documentation for ongoing research projects.
• Sustainability plan and capacity-building program for local research leadership.
• Monitoring and evaluation framework and regular progress reports.
• Learning workshops conducted.

Basic Details of the Consultancy

Managed by / Reporting to      -              Director of Programmes and Advocacy

Timeframe                                        -              6 months

Number of Days                            -              4/5 days per week

Location                                            -              Home based / remote, with periodic visits to Colchester office.

Fee Rate                                             -              £250 per day

Payment Terms                             -              Invoices submitted monthly, with accompanying timesheets.