PSC_Announcement_4-2015_MCC-RFQ-15-0098_MCC-PEPFAR_Coordinator_Tanzania_FINAL.docx

PSC PEPFAR Coordinator - Tanzania MCC-15-RFQ-0098 Date Posted April 15, 2015

Announcement Number MCC-15-RFQ-0098

Title Senior Director, PEPFAR Partnership Coordinator, Tanzania

Position information Full Time Personal Services Contractor (PSC) One year (2,087 hours per year), renewable for up to four years at the sole discretion of the Government Period of Performance One year contract, renewable for up to four additional years at the sole discretion of the government

Pay band 2D Senior Director Equivalent ($59.90 - $80.65 per hour)

Closing date for questions April 20, 2015 no later than 12:00pm EDT

Application deadline April 23, 2015 no later than 12:00pm EDT

Who may be considered U.S. Citizens or legal, permanent residents with 5 years of residency history

Duty location To Be Determined

Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is a United States government-owned corporation created in 2004, whose mission is to provide assistance that will support economic growth and poverty reduction in carefully selected developing countries that demonstrate a commitment to just and democratic governance, economic freedom, and investments in their citizenry. To receive assistance, eligible countries are required to enter into a public agreement (Compact) with the MCC that includes a multi-year plan for achieving shared development objectives and the responsibilities of each country in achieving those objectives, regular benchmarks to measure progress, multi-year financial plan, and a plan to ensure accountability for the use of MCA assistance.

MCC and the Department of State’s Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC) have entered into a strategic two to three year interagency partnership focused on the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The MCC--OGAC partnership (“the Project”) will leverage MCC’s experience in country ownership to increase country participation through multi-stakeholder engagement around the availability, accessibility, analysis and use of data beginning with a focus on health, economic growth and their nexus. Specifically, MCC will work with PEPFAR and relevant in country stakeholders to explore interest in, conceptualize and implement activities to strengthen country open data systems, including establishing potential data hubs/platforms in up to three partner governments in southern and eastern Africa. MCC will also contribute to PEPFAR’s Interagency Collaborative for Program Improvement to incentivize evidence-based decision making and country accountability, and ultimately, contribute to more targeted and sustainable use of PEPFAR funds.

SCOPE OF POSITION

The Sector Operations (SO) division of MCC’s Department of Compact Operations (DCO) is seeking a full-time Personal Services Contractor (PSCs) to serve as MCC-PEPFAR Partnership Coordinator in Tanzania to advance key MCC- PEPFAR Partnership milestones, on the ground. Specifically, s/he will focus on helping to understand problems related to data access, integration, timeliness and use by different stakeholders; contribute to building the business case for greater country interest and commitment to data availability, access and use; and promote active country participation and buy-in to the process of strengthening country-led open data systems.

A personal services contract is different from non-personal services Government contract, which establishes an independent contract relationship. Under a non-personal services contract, the contractor or employees of the contractor are subject to the technical direction but not the supervision of the MCC. As defined by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 37.104, a personal services contract is characterized by the employer-employee relationship it creates between the Government and the contractor personnel. Thus, the PSC is subject to the relatively continuous technical direction, supervision, and control of the MCC. PSCs may be assigned inherently governmental duties (see FAR 7.502). By law and by the contract’s terms, the PSC is subject to most of the laws, rules, and regulations applicable to the direct hire employee such as MCC regulations, conflict of interest, under some circumstances MCC authorized employment security clearances, and financial disclosure. However, under the MCC personal services contract authority, PSCs are not employees for purposes of laws administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The following elements apply to this contact:

(1) Performance on site.

(2) Principal tools and equipment furnished by the Government.

(3) Services are applied directly to the integral effort of agencies or an organizational subpart in furtherance of assigned function or mission.

(4) Comparable services, meeting comparable needs, are performed in the same or similar agencies using civil service personnel.

(5) The need for the type of service provided can reasonably be expected to last beyond 1 year.

(6) The inherent nature of the service, or the manner in which it is provided, reasonably requires directly or indirectly, Government direction or supervision of contractor employees in order to—

(i) Adequately protect the Government’s interest;

(ii) Retain control of the function involved; or

(iii) Retain full personal responsibility for the function supported in a duly authorized Federal officer or employee.

KEY REQUIREMENTS

· U.S. citizenship;

· Must be able to obtain and maintain a Critical-Sensitive Federal Security Clearance;

· Performance in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

· Statement of Employment & Financial Interest (i.e. Office of Government Ethics form-450, or similar statement) may be required;

· Active and approved System for Award Management (SAM) record (listed as sole-proprietor). PLEASE NOTE: This contract shall be awarded solely to an individual(s), not to a firm. The individual must have an active DUNS # and a fully approved and active record in the SAM. The approval of your record in SAM may take a few weeks. Therefore, please register in SAM immediately after submitting your application.

DUTIES

Major Duties and Responsibilities include:

The PSC will be based in an MCC-PEPFAR candidate partner country (Tanzania), and will work with the DC-based Managing Director to advance key MCC- PEPFAR Partnership milestones, on the ground. Specifically, s/he will focus on helping to understand problems related to data access, integration, timeliness and use by different stakeholders; contribute to building the business case for greater country interest and commitment to data availability, access and use; and promote active country participation and buy-in to the process of strengthening country-led open data systems. Tasks include, but are not limited to, the following:

· Understanding country-specific data needs and (through a process of building and sustaining relations) for promoting the interest, participation and commitment of relevant country stakeholders (Government, NGOs, private sector, other) in the design, implementation of activities that could strengthen country open data systems, including potential country data platforms intended to increase cross-sector dialogue, HIV/AIDS, health, gender and economic growth data analysis, integration and use

· Coordinating and directing country specific components of the stakeholder mapping, analysis and engagement planning and execution. Ensuring meeting / workshop outcomes and insights are shared with the rest of the MCC-PEPFAR Project team and considered in the design of the potential data hubs.

· Contributing to an evolving Project logic based on in-country context, including issues related to data access, quality, timeliness, integration and use – and ensuring this understanding is incorporated in the final mix of activities funded by the Partnership.

· Establishing and maintaining an understanding of the governance and legislative landscape as it pertains to open data, data sharing and transparency, including progress of a particular country on commitments (global to the USG, other donors or partners).

· Contributing to the evolving set of options of activities that could be designed and implemented to strengthen country open data systems – and for their implementation.

· Maintaining regular contact with MCC and PEPFAR in-country leads (PEPFAR Coordinator and MCC RCD) to ensure they are informed of status (and areas of overlap with their respective roles and programs for which they are responsible), and that they can provide valuable input / insight into ways for greater country engagement.

· Providing regular oversight of contractor, consultant or implementing partner activities on the ground – and coordinates with the DC-based PM and/or COR as issues or opportunities arise.

· Providing guidance and direction to the periodic MCC/PEPFAR monitoring of progress toward milestones established during period covered by the partnership.

· Coordinating evolving thinking about how to ensure greater country buy-in – and data hub / platform sustainability – and regularly validates these assumptions through stakeholder engagement.

· Working with the Managing Director to identify, track and manage key Partnership risks and opportunities – as viewed from the country where the Partnership activities will be implemented.

· Planning, participating and leading meetings, work sessions and workshops with Project stakeholders, including: MCC consultants and in-country PEPFAR teams and headquarters staff at OGAC, MCC and PEPFAR interagency.

· Supporting planning and execution of visits from MCC and PEPFAR DC-based Project staff in coordination with MCC and PEPFAR personnel on the ground.

· Considering lessons learned and contributing to adapting and replicating successful aspects of the Partnership to programs managed by the PEPFAR coordinator and MCC RCD.

· Contributing to internal (MCC) and external Project communications, including but not limited to briefers, presentations, and other tools.

· Performing other related duties as assigned.

DELIVERABLES

Deliverables are associated with the tasks identified in DUTIES to include reports as required by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR).

The Contractor will submit biweekly timesheets on a schedule and format determined by MCC. Timesheets will include a list of hours worked per compact or country program, along with a brief description of the tasks undertaken for each program during the pay period.

The Contractor also will produce other reports and analyses as requested by MCC. Example of such reports and analyses may include, but are not limited to, the following:

· Monthly updates of progress made toward establish Partnership Milestones

· Ad hoc reports, meeting summaries, briefers and other written products and information, as requested by the COR The PSC will perform work under this contract in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, in assigned space or at the consultant’s office or home of record, as required to complete tasks upon approval of the COR.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Applicants must meet all the qualification requirements, including education and all qualifying specialized experience described below by the closing date of this announcement. Desired qualifications will be considered only once all education and qualifying specialized experience requirements are met. Please clearly demonstrate that you possess the following:

Education/Certification:

Candidates should hold, at a minimum, a master degree in Economics, International Development, information and communications technology, or a related discipline.

· Education may only be substituted in accordance with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order to be credited towards qualifications.

· Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click on the link for a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials.

Qualifying specialized experience:

· A minimum of 10 years of experience designing or implementing data-based services, activities or programs.

· A minimum of 5 years in positions requiring significant representation, coordination and relationship building across numerous sector and levels

· Knowledge of data analysis, integration and security methods and practices

· At least 5 years working/living in a developing country context.

· At least 5 years of experience coordinating technical or business arrangements between or among disparate parties towards jointly established goals.

· Proven interpersonal and cross-cultural skills.

Desired qualifications:

· Prior experience in Tanzania and knowledge of the culture and language, in order to facilitate host-country relationship building and interest in the Partnership.

NOTE: All experience must be well-documented on your resume and within your application. All aspects of your application must specifically show how you meet the QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED.

COMPENSATION

PSCs for the services of individual experts or consultants are limited by the Classification Act. In addition, the OPM has established requirements which apply in acquiring the personal services of experts or consultants in this manner (e.g., benefits, taxes, conflicts of interest):

This is full time position and thus, the maximum number of hours allowed is 2,087 per year. The contract will have four one-year option periods that may be exercised at the sole discretion of MCC The pay range for this position is $59.90 to $80.65 per hour. Final compensation will be negotiated within this pay range based upon the successful candidate’s salary history, work experience, and educational background. A salary above this pay range will NOT be entertained or negotiated. Relocation expenses to Tanzania are not compensable under the resulting contract.

MCC issues W-2s to the PSC. For U.S. citizens and legal resident aliens, MCC makes the employer contribution to FICA and Medicare for the PSC. MCC withholds FICA, Medicare, federal tax, and state tax on behalf of the PSC. The PSC is not eligible for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion.

Benefits:

Under the MCC personal services contract authority, PSCs are not employees for purposes of laws administered by OPM, such as Federal retirement benefits and health and life insurance. As such, the PSC is not eligible for participation in the Civil Service Retirement System or the Federal Employees Retirement System. Moreover, the PSC is ineligible to receive Federal Health and Life Insurance or participate in the federal Thrift Savings Plan.

Notwithstanding the above, MCC does permit reimbursement of a portion of the PSC’s cost of health insurance premiums incurred during the contract’s period of performance. To be eligible for the health insurance reimbursement the employee must provide proof of insurance coverage and payment of premium for which s/he is responsible. Examples of acceptable proof are bank statement, receipts, cancelled checks or other proof of payment. Individuals covered under another health insurance plan, or have subsidized health insurance are not eligible for this reimbursement. Subject to the availability of funds, MCC may pay a percentage (up-to-15%) of the employee’s base salary towards a health insurance policy as mentioned above.

The full time PSC does earn sick leave, annual leave, and holiday pay.

The full time PSC working at MCC Headquarters in Washington, DC is eligible for parking or transit subsidy, subject to the availability of funds. The full time PSC whose duty station is overseas is not eligible for this subsidy.

Travel:

The PSC is subject to the Federal Travel Regulations and MCC travel policies and procedures to the same extent as MCC direct-hire employees.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Interested applicants must submit all required documents to include, but not limited to:

· Completed and signed Biodata Form;

· Curriculum vitae or resume (limit 10 pages);

· A written narrative of up to five pages clearly describing relevant experience and knowledge of each of the Qualifying Specialized Experience requirements, and any desired qualifications.

· No less than three and no more than five professional references with current contact information;

NOTE: Submittals shall be in accordance with the INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS. Please ensure that applicants’ most recent contact information (telephone numbers and e-mail address) are accurate. Any other documentation will not be accepted.

Delivery:

Electronic submission is required. Electronic application packages shall be submitted by e-mail to MCCPSC@mcc.gov. Submission shall reference the position title AND the announcement number on the subject line of the e-mail. Electronically submitted packages must include a scanned signature on the Bio-data form to be considered.

MCC does not accept responsibility for delays in transmission or receipt of any application. Applicants are responsible for submitting the application package so as to reach the designated Government office by the closing date and time specified above. Applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered, unless there is acceptable evidence to establish that it was indeed received by the Government installation prior to the time and date specified in this announcement. Receipt of an application in response to this announcement does not constitute an award commitment. The U.S. Government will not reimburse any costs incurred in the preparation and submission of an application. Any submission is at the sole risk of the applicant.

Questions:

Any questions regarding this announcement should be submitted in writing via email only (no phone calls) to MCCPSC@mcc.gov, before the deadline as given above.

Submission of applications to this announcement must be received via e-mail to MCCPSC@mcc.gov before the deadline as given above.

INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS

The QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED are the basis for evaluating all applications. Applicants must separately address each listed qualification requirement and demonstrate how s/he meets each. Unless stated otherwise, all qualification elements will be weighted equally.

(a) Qualified individuals must submit a completed and signed Biodata form. Please ensure that you provide a current, valid e-mail address and telephone number for notification purposes. The Biodata form must be fully completed including a proposed hourly rate & signed for the application to be considered.

(b) Qualified individuals must submit a resume (or a curriculum vita) which clearly demonstrates their education, experience, knowledge, and skills and abilities as they relate to the qualification elements. Resume must indicate: the earliest possible start date for the applicant; as well as formal title, and duration (start date / end date) for each listed position. Resume is limited to 10 pages and must not contain a photo or any salary information.

(c) Describe your experience and knowledge of each of the Qualifying specialized experience requirements and Desired qualifications, if applicable, in no more than five pages (page = 8 ½” x 11” paper; 11 point font or larger; double sided pages count as two pages). Clearly demonstrate how your prior experience is either relevant or directly related to the duties of this position as listed under DUTIES. The responses should describe specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards you have received that are relevant to each factor. Cite specific examples where appropriate.

(d) Qualified individuals must submit no fewer than three and no more than five professional references, who are not relatives or family members. Submitted references MUST include current information, as follows:

a. Name of reference

b. Applicants’ relationship to reference

c. Title of reference at current job

d. Reference current telephone number (work or personal)

e. Reference e-mail address (work) At least two references must be from direct supervisors (current or prior) who can provide information regarding the applicant’s knowledge & experience in the field of International Economic Development. All references must be from within the last 5 years of the applicant’s professional life.

(e) Applications must be signed and received prior to the closing date and time specified above to be considered for this position. All applications must be signed. Unsigned applications shall NOT be considered.

To ensure consideration of applicants for the intended position, please reference the position title and announcement number on the subject line of your submission email, on supporting documentation and any cover letter.

SELECTION PROCESS

In order to be considered for the position, a candidate must meet the qualifications listed above. Consideration and selection will be based on a panel evaluation in accordance with the QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED. In addition to the materials listed above, applicants are strongly encouraged to write a cover letter, not to exceed one page, to highlight their suitability for this position. The cover letter is NOT included in the required written narrative.

All applicants will be evaluated based on the documentation submitted, the applicant’s evidence of the above qualification requirements, performance in a potential interview, if conducted, and information provided by references, if contacted. All applicants will received one of three scores for each of the required qualification: Does Not Meet, Meets, or Exceeds.

MCC reserves the right to call the highest qualified candidates for an interview and/or conduct a reference check on those individuals. Reference checks may be conducted on the highest qualified applicants.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure the work history portion thoroughly documents the duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments that are directly related to this position in order to verify specialized experience. Errors or omissions may affect your evaluation.

The U.S. Government & MCC is not obligated to make an award or pay for any costs associated with the preparation and submission of a proposal in response to this announcement. Award of this contract is contingent on availability of funds. MCC reserves the right not to award any contract as a result of this announcement.

Evaluation Methodology: The Government will perform a comparative analysis of quotes and will assess the advantages and disadvantages of each quote as related to the Evaluation Factors. Multiple awards may be made from this notice and all quotes will be retained and may be utilized for requirements for a period of 6 months.

Security Level: Secret (Non-Critical Sensitive)

CLAUSES:

FAR 52.232-18 Availability of Funds Funds are not presently available for this contract. The Government’s obligation under this contract is contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds from which payment for contract purposes can be made. No legal liability on the part of the Government for any payment may arise until funds are made available to the Contracting Officer for this contract and until the Contractor receives notice of such availability, to be confirmed in writing by the Contracting Officer.

(End of Clause)

FAR 52.217-9 Option to Extend the Term of the Contract

(a) The Government may extend the term of this contract by written notice to the Contractor within the active period of the contract; provided that the Government gives the Contractor a preliminary written notice of its intent to extend at least 30 before the contract expires. The preliminary notice does not commit the Government to an extension.

(b) If the Government exercises this option, the extended contract shall be considered to include this option clause.

(c) The total duration of this contract, including the exercise of any options under this clause, shall not exceed sixty (60) months.

Note: This position is contingent on the continuation of the MCC-PEPFAR Partnership, as well as the decision to continue working with the particular country as a partner.

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