Localization Consultant – Sudan INGO Forum

Job Posting Organization:
The Sudan INGO Forum represents over 80 international NGOs and plays a central role in coordination, advocacy, and representation in the humanitarian sector. The organization is dedicated to addressing the severe humanitarian crises in Sudan, where millions are in need of assistance. The Forum's mission includes strengthening localization efforts by enhancing collaboration with national and local NGOs, women-led organizations, civil society actors, and mutual aid groups. The organization aims to develop a localization strategy and improve partnership practices to support more equitable and locally led humanitarian action. The Sudan INGO Forum operates in a challenging environment, focusing on effective coordination and advocacy to ensure that humanitarian efforts are responsive to the needs of the affected populations.

Job Overview:
The Localization Consultant will play a crucial role in operationalizing the Sudan INGO Forum’s localization priorities. This position involves developing a practical localization strategy, establishing coordination mechanisms, and delivering tools and guidance that enhance partnerships between international NGOs (INGOs) and national actors. The consultant will engage in stakeholder consultations to inform localization priorities and provide a technical review of existing partnership practices. The role requires the consultant to support the identification of operational barriers affecting equitable partnerships and collaboration between INGOs and national NGOs (NNGOs). The consultant will also be responsible for facilitating dialogue and experience sharing among INGOs, NNGOs, and donors on localization priorities, ultimately aiming to strengthen the participation of local actors in humanitarian decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will be responsible for conducting stakeholder consultations and key informant discussions to inform localization priorities. They will provide a technical review of existing partnership practices and coordination approaches for NNGOs. The consultant will engage with NNGO Forum leadership to identify priorities, gaps, and opportunities for collaboration. They will establish and support a Localization Working Group, including developing terms of reference (ToR), structure, and workplan. The consultant will lead the co-creation of a Sudan INGO Forum Localization Strategy aligned with the Forum's objectives. Additionally, they will conduct mapping of national NGOs, local actors, and networks, and support in documenting stakeholder feedback to inform strategy development. The consultant will design and facilitate peer learning events and roundtables on localization in practice, develop practical guidance and tools on equitable partnerships, and establish structured feedback mechanisms for national partners. They will also support the exploration of due diligence harmonization among Forum members and provide recommendations to strengthen local actors' participation in humanitarian decision-making processes.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 7–10 years of experience in humanitarian coordination, localization, or partnerships. A strong understanding of localization policy and practice is essential, along with experience working with national NGOs and civil society organizations. The consultant must demonstrate facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills and have experience producing practical tools, strategies, and guidance documents. The ability to work in complex and politically sensitive environments is crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not detailed in the job description, it is generally expected that candidates possess a relevant degree in fields such as international relations, humanitarian studies, social sciences, or a related discipline. Advanced degrees may be preferred, especially given the complexity of the role and the need for strategic thinking and analysis.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience, ideally between 7 to 10 years, in humanitarian coordination, localization, or partnerships. This experience should include working directly with national NGOs and civil society organizations, as well as a demonstrated ability to engage stakeholders effectively and facilitate discussions around localization and partnership practices.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the role. Knowledge of Arabic may be highly beneficial, considering the local context in Sudan and the need for effective communication with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is contingent on funding and is expected to take place from July/August 2026 to October/November 2026, totaling approximately 80 days of work. The consultant will report to the Sudan INGO Forum Director and Steering Committee and will work closely with various stakeholders, including the INGO Forum Secretariat, Steering Committee, NNGO Forum leadership, Forum members, ICVA, and relevant donors. The position is remote but requires engagement in Sudan and potential regional travel as needed. The organization emphasizes equal employment opportunities and is committed to safeguarding and ethical practices in its operations.