Solicitation 72051923R00007 - USPSC RFMO Advisor - EXTENSION CLOSING DATE.pdf

Digitally signed by Andrew Reese Date: 2023.05.04 14:24:20 -04'00'

SOLICITATION No. 72051923R00007 ISSUANCE DATE: April 24, 2023 CLOSING DATE/TIME: May 8, 2023 5:00 pm (El Salvador/Local Time) NEW CLOSING DATE/TIME: May 22, 2023 5:00 pm (El Salvador/Local Time)

SUBJECT: EXTENSION OF CLOSING DATE

Solicitation for a U.S. Personal Services Contractor (USPSC) Regional Financial Management Advisor, GS-15 Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO), USAID/El Salvador

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The closing date for receipt of offers for subject solicitation has been extended through May 22, 2023, at 5:00 pm (El Salvador/Local Time).

Offers submitted in response to the previous advertisement under the same above referenced solicitation number do not need to re-submit; those offers will be considered.

Any questions must be directed to the Point of Contact specified in Attachment 1.

Sincerely, Andrew Reese Regional Executive Officer

Digitally signed by Andrew Reese Date: 2023.05.04 14:24:42 -04'00'

SOLICITATION No.: 72051923R00007 ISSUANCE DATE: April 24, 2023 CLOSING DATE/TIME: May 8, 2023 5:00 pm (El Salvador/Local Time) NEW CLOSING DATE/TIME: May 22, 2023 5:00 pm (El Salvador/Local Time)

SUBJECT: Solicitation for a U.S. Personal Services Contractor (USPSC) Regional Financial Management Advisor, GS-15 Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO), USAID/El Salvador

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in the attached solicitation.

Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1 of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records.

USAID will evaluate all offerors based on the stated evaluation criteria. USAID encourages all individuals, including those from disadvantaged and under-represented groups, to respond to the solicitation.

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offer.

Any questions must be directed to the Point of Contact specified in Attachment 1.

Sincerely, Andrew Reese Regional Executive Officer

Digitally signed by Andrew Reese Date: 2023.04.22 12:06:28 -06'00'

Attachment No. 1 Solicitation No. 72051923R00007

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72051923R00007

2. ISSUANCE DATE: April 24, 2023

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: May 8, 2023 (5:00 pm El Salvador/Local Time) NEW CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: May 22, 2023 5:00 pm (El Salvador/Local Time)

4. POINT OF CONTACT: USAID/El Salvador, Executive Office/Procurement Email: sansalprocteam@usaid.gov

5. POSITION TITLE: Regional Financial Management Advisor

6. MARKET VALUE: $117,518 to $152,771 equivalent to GS-15.

Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salaries over and above the top of the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated. USPSCs performing overseas are not entitle to Locality Pay.

7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/El Salvador, San Salvador, El Salvador.

Overseas USPSCs may be authorized to telework or remote work only from a location within the country of performance, in accordance with Mission Policy. Telework or remote work from outside the country of performance may only be authorized in certain situations in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract.

8. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE:

The base period will be six (6) months with the option to extend up to five (5) additional months subject to agency needs, estimated as follows:

Base Period: 6 months: o/a May 2023 – o/a November 2023 Option Period 1: Up to 5 months: o/a December 2023 – o/a April 2024

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: U.S. Citizens and Lawful U.S. Resident Aliens only.

10. CLEARANCES:

Security Clearance: The selected offeror must be able to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance at the “Secret” level.

Medical Clearance: Appropriate medical clearance from the Department of State (DS), Office of Medical Services.

If such clearances are not obtained within a reasonable time or negative suitability issues are involved, any offer may be rescinded.

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

11. STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

1. General Statement of Purpose of the Contract

USAID/El Salvador requests the services of a highly experienced USPSC Regional Financial Management Advisor to provide short-term support and ensure the smooth operation of the Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO) for approximately 6 months.

RFMO exercises supervision and quality control over fiscal and accounting operations of mission financial operations and provides expert technical advice on all matters relating to financial management. The USPSC Regional Financial Management Advisor serves as the focal point for all financial management functions including budgeting, accounting, financial analysis, payments, audits, and financial advisory services to Mission management and staff.

USAID/El Salvador manages multiple large and small, high-profile programs through three separate technical offices of Democracy and Governance, Citizen Security, and Economic Growth and Education. The RFMO is also the controller for USAID/Mexico, USAID/Nicaragua, and BHA/Costa Rica. The Regional Financial Management Advisor manages a financial team of approximately 30 employees in the region.

2. Statement of Duties to be Performed

The Regional Financial Management Advisor will provide support during the absences of the Regional Controller or the Deputy Controller. During these occasions, they will serve in the capacity of Regional Controller or Deputy Controller for USAID/El Salvador and its client Missions and will be responsible for the management and general supervision of RFMO staff in USAID/El Salvador, and the FMO in USAID/Mexico and USAID/Nicaragua. The Regional Financial Management Advisor is responsible for maintaining financial budgets, managing an effective system of accounting for financial records, financial analysis, payments, managing the audit programs, managing risk at the Mission/s, managing the systems of controls over Mission/s processes, and overseeing financial operations/systems. They also serve as an expert manager and leader of human resources at the mission.

a. The incumbent's duties and responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to the following functions:

Directs operations of the Voucher, Accounting and Financial Analysis Sections of the

RFMO through the supervisor of each section.

Oversees the financial management systems, practices, and procedures. Assists in the development of procedures and internal controls process as necessary.

Provides uniform guidance and procedures to client missions for the financial management of all funds. Coordinates implementation of financial management policies and procedures in accordance with mission operations and regulations.

Recommends modifications and amendments to office operations based on observations, efficient and effective business practices, operational experience, and suggestions from RFMO staff.

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

Monitors the implementation of the operational expense budgets of client missions to ensure that funds are obligated, expended, and accounted for as budgeted and allowed and in accordance with regulations.

Provides general oversight for all CCNs working in the financial management offices of USAID/El Salvador, USAID/Mexico, and USAID/Nicaragua, via mixture of direct supervision for CCNs in supervisory capacity and indirect supervision for CCNs in non-supervisory capacity.

Coordinates with client mission technical office and program managers in setting up accounting and tracking systems while integrating financial controls into the implementation mechanisms for each contract or grant within the program sector.

Provides financial data to be used for, and participates in, forecasting of future resource requirements for development objectives portfolios.

Serves as the alternative ACO for payments made from program and operation expense and trust funds.

Provides a full range of financial management services necessary to administratively support USDH employees, and US and Cooperating Country National (CCN) Personal Services Contractors of all client missions.

Ensures compliance with USG, USAID, and mission budgeting, disbursing, accounting, and reporting policies, procedures, and regulations.

Performs other duties, to include but not limited to staff training that may be assigned by the direct supervisor or designee.

3. Supervisory Relationship and Controls

The majority of the work and assignments are self-directed, with very little guidance or review provided by the Deputy Mission Director as the supervisor. The incumbent is expected to work with a high degree of independence and must be able to establish priorities, adhere to and meet established deadlines, and perform responsibilities and duties with minimal guidance and little or no follow-up. Work produced by the incumbent is considered authoritative. The incumbent serves as final clearance and certification for nearly all financial documentation, unless otherwise required by policy or regulation.

The Regional Financial Management Advisor directly supervises, a Supervisory Financial Analyst (CCN), and the RFMO Administrative Assistance (CCN). The incumbent will provide general supervision, oversight, and guidance for approximately 30 CCN financial professionals across the region.

4. Position Elements

Degree of responsibility for decision-making assigned to the position:

High. The incumbent will be responsible for most decisions made by the RFMO during the period in this position. This includes decisions involving the highest level of the client mission and making recommendations to the Mission Director and Deputy Mission Director for all full-service client missions.

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

Level of complexity of work assignments:

High. Given the size and complexity of the USAID/El Salvador RFMO portfolio, the position is demanding, and the service of a senior/experienced financial management professional with prior financial management operations experience is required to facilitate continuity of operations during the period of employment. Duties are varied, and assignments often require the participation and support of others.

Knowledge level required:

Knowledge, understanding, and experience of serving as a Controller or Financial Director for a USG overseas mission or operating unit are required. This includes strong knowledge of USG accounting rules and regulations, business practices and policies, and knowledge of managing a team of financial professionals. A thorough knowledge and understanding of professional accounting principles, theories, practices, and terminology as well as the principles and accepted procedures of U.S. governmental and business financial accounting, budgeting, and reporting is required. A thorough knowledge of laws, regulations, policies, and procedures associated with USG financial management of development and humanitarian programs is also required. Must also have a thorough understanding of project planning and implementation procedures and of governmental organization and operations in general. Must have the ability to perform in a team environment and to maintain cordial and professional relationships with USAID, NGO, and contractor personnel. Must be skilled in the use of computer-based analytical programs and financial management systems. Position requires a high level of independent judgment with regard to financial management policies and regulations.

Guidelines:

High level of judgement required on all guidelines and decision making. Professional judgement is used after thorough review of guidance and regulations.

Complexity of the work environment or its potential effect on the position’s responsibilities:

The work environment is highly complex, requiring communication with multiple USAID Missions, with significant leadership of up to 30 financial professionals across the region, and with a wide-ranging set of development programs and implementing partners. USAID/El Salvador’s RFMO has a complex portfolio of bilateral, unilateral, and regional programs. The incumbent will need to be able to respond rapidly and with sound judgment to issues as they arise. Incumbent will frequently be called upon to summarize complex issues and situations in a succinct and relevant manner for senior management.

Scope and effect of the work performed:

The work impacts all financial related aspects of the USAID Missions under the portfolio, as well as an impact on the overall financial statements of USAID. The Regional Financial Management Advisor serves on the Senior Leadership Team of USAID/El Salvador and is regularly consulted regarding mission wide policies regarding technical and human resource issues. The scope and impact of the work products and services are broad in nature and not limited to one office.

Level and purpose of contacts:

Generally speaking, the work contacts are inward focused within USAID Missions regionally, Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

and the US Embassy in El Salvador. However, there is also considerable involvement with implementing partners within the region, or with offices in Washington, D.C.

Authority to make commitments:

Judgement and past experience making commitments under the provisions of the ADS are required. Serves as an Authorized Certifying Officer as authorized by CFO/Washington for payments made from program and operation expense and trust funds, as required.

Travel requirements:

Travel to San Salvador, El Salvador. Temporary duty travel to the region may be required as determined by the need of the agency.

12. PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The position does not involve undue physical demands.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

Education: A Bachelor’s degree level in accounting, finance, or business administration.

Language Proficiency: Fluency in English, Spanish is not required.

Technical and Professional Experience:

A minimum of 10 years of experience of serving as a Controller or Financial Director for a USG Agency or operating unit overseas are required. This includes strong knowledge of USG accounting rules and regulations, USG business practices and policies, and knowledge of managing a team of financial professionals.

Thorough knowledge and understanding of professional accounting principles, theories, practices, and terminology, as well as the principles and accepted procedures of U.S. Governmental and business financial accounting, budgeting, and reporting is required. A thorough knowledge of laws, regulations and procedures associated with USG financial management is also required. Strong understanding of project planning and implementation procedures and of development organization and operations is required. The position requires a high level of independent judgment with regard to USG’s financial management policies and regulations.

Skills and Abilities:

A high level of analytical skill and sound judgment is required. Must have the ability to perform in a team and to maintain cordial and professional relationships with USAID staff, Host Government, NGO, and Contractor personnel. Excellent English communication skills, both orally and in writing, are essential. Must have strong supervisory and management skills to effectively supervise RFMO staff and direct the various elements of a complex financial management operation. Must have excellent interpersonal and training skills, and a genuine interest in developing the abilities of RFMO staff.

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

The ability to obtain the security level and medical clearances required for the position.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance with FAR 52.215-1. The CO reserves the right at any point in the evaluation process to establish a competitive range of offerors with whom negotiations will be conducted pursuant to FAR 15.306(c). In accordance with FAR 52.215-1, if the CO determines that the number of offers that would otherwise be in the competitive range exceeds the number at which an efficient competition can be conducted, the CO may limit the number of offerors in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. FAR provisions of this solicitation are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

Rating System The offeror rating system factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified offerors. Offerors must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:

Education: (10 points) Language Proficiency: (Pass/Fail) Technical and Professional Experience: (75 points) Skills and Abilities: (25 points)

Offerors meeting the above required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented in the offer. USAID reserves the right to conduct interviews and reference checks with the top ranked short-listed offerors. Reference checks will be conducted and will be considered as part of the responsibility determination.

IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER

All of the following must be included in the offer package in order for the package to be considered complete:

1. A signed cover letter of no more than 3 pages that demonstrates how the Offeror’s qualifications meet the work requirements.

2. A Curriculum Vitae which must contain sufficient and clearly identified information to make a valid determination that you fully meet the experience requirements as stated in this solicitation. Failure to provide information sufficient to determine your qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration.

a) Paid and non-paid experience, job title, location(s), dates held (month/year), and hours worked per week for each position. Dates (month/year) and locations for all field experience must also be detailed. Any experience that does not include dates (month/year), locations, and hours per week will not be counted towards meeting the solicitation requirements.

b) Specific duties performed that fully detail the level and complexity of the work.

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

c) Education and any other qualifications including job-related training courses, job-related skills, or job-related honors, awards, or accomplishments. Failure to identify an academic discipline will result in disqualification.

3. A completed and signed offer form, AID 309-2 (Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals), which can be found at the following website, https://www.usaid.gov/forms.

4. Names, current and accurate phone numbers, and email addresses of three professional references that have knowledge of the Offeror’s abilities to perform the duties set forth in the solicitation. USAID reserves the right to contact all references. USAID also reserves the right to develop its own references.

5. A signed written statement certifying the date and length of time for which the Offeror is available for the position.

6. To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, Offeror submissions must clearly reference the Solicitation number on all offeror submitted documents.

7. Offer submissions must be received electronically by the closing date and time specified in Section I, Item 3 and submitted to the Point of Contact in Section I, Item 4.

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD

The CO will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the appropriate forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award.

VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a USPSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:

1. BENEFITS:

(a) Employer's FICA Contribution

(b) Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance (if applicable)

(c) Pay Comparability Adjustment

(d) Annual Increase (pending a satisfactory performance evaluation)

(e) Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

(f) Annual and Sick Leave

2. ALLOWANCES (If applicable):

Section numbers refer to rules from the Department of State Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas), available at https://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=282&menu_id=101

(a) Temporary Quarter Subsistence Allowance (Section 120)

(b) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)

(c) Cost of Living Allowance (Chapter 210)

(d) Post Allowance (Section 220)

(e) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)

(f) Education Allowance (Section 270)

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

(g) Education Travel (Section 280)

(h) Post Differential (Chapter 500)

(i) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600)

(j) Danger Pay (Section 650)

An offeror meeting the definition of a Resident Hire is not eligible for any fringe benefits, differentials, or allowances; and are only eligible for contributions for FICA, Medicare, health insurance, and life insurance.

Resident Hire U.S. Personal Services Contractor (USPSC)” means a U.S. citizen or resident alien who, at the time of contract award, – (i) resides in the cooperating country for reasons other than U.S. Government or non-U.S. government employment, or under any contract or other arrangement, that provides for repatriation to the U.S; or (ii) is a spouse or dependent of a U.S.

citizen or resident alien who resides or will reside, in the cooperating country for the purpose of U.S. government or non-U.S. government employment, or under any contract or other arrangement that provides repatriation to the U.S.

VII. TAXES

USPSCs are required to pay Federal Income Taxes, FICA, Medicare, and applicable State Income Taxes.

VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs

USAID regulations and policies governing USPSC awards are available at these sources:

1. USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix D, “Direct USAID Contracts with a

U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Resident Alien for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar.

2. Contract Cover Page form AID 309-1 available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms.

Pricing by line item is to be determined upon contract award as described by the illustrative table (no information required for offer submission):

ITEM

NO

(A)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES (DESCRIPTION) (B) QUANTITY

(C)

UNIT

(D)

UNIT

PRICE

(E)

AMOUNT

(F)

0001 Base Period - Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service Code: R497

- Accounting Info: TBD

6 months LOT $ _TBD $_ TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor

Regional Financial Management Advisor Regional Financial Management Office (RFMO)

USAID/EL SALVADOR

1001 Option Period 1 – Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service Code: R497

- Accounting Info: TBD

5 months LOT $ _TBD $ TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor

3. Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at https://www.usaid.gov/partner-with-us/aapds-cibs.

4. Ethical Conduct. By the acceptance of a USAID personal services contract as an individual, the contractor will be acknowledging receipt of the “Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch,” available from the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, in accordance with General Provision 2 and 5 CFR 2635.

See https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations.

5. PSC Ombudsman The PSC Ombudsman serves as a resource for any Personal Services Contractor who has entered into a contract with the United States Agency for International Development and is available to provide clarity on their specific contract with the agency. Please visit our page for additional information: https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman .

The PSC Ombudsman may be contacted via: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov

*** END OF SOLICITATION ***