Consultant Terms of Reference: 2025 Health Systems Strengthening Case Competition

As a Consultant for the 2025 Health Systems Strengthening Case Competition at Results for Development, your main responsibilities include attending the kick-off meeting for the activity, participating in the development of scoring criteria and rubrics, and evaluating case competition submissions. You will score around 13 submissions based on agreed criteria and actively engage in evaluation meetings to discuss findings and select finalists for submission to USAID. This role requires comprehensive knowledge in health system strengthening to ensure accurate assessments.

To qualify for the Consultant role at Results for Development's Health Systems Strengthening Case Competition, candidates should have extensive expertise in health systems strengthening, especially in areas such as primary health care, healthcare integration, and program implementation and evaluation. Experience with similar competitions or evaluations is highly desirable. Strong analytical and communication skills are vital, along with a capacity for impartial assessment of submissions. A background in global health or public health will be highly beneficial.

The evaluation process for the Consultant position at Results for Development involves a structured review of approximately 13 case competition submissions. After participating in kickoff meetings and helping to develop scoring criteria, you will carefully analyze each case, complete an evaluation form, and score submissions according to the established rubric. You will also join meetings with other judges to discuss insights, ensure unbiased evaluations, and finalize the selections for submission to USAID.

The timeline for the Consultant position at Results for Development spans approximately 5.5 days between January 2025 and June 2025. The role offers flexibility, allowing you to manage your time effectively while contributing to the evaluation of submissions. Key deadlines to keep in mind are the submission of initial evaluations by May 31, 2025, and participation in a judges' meeting to finalize winners for USAID.

Results for Development prides itself on a collaborative, creative, and entrepreneurial work culture that emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a Consultant, you will be part of a supportive team committed to fostering a positive work environment where ideas and perspectives are valued. This culture not only enhances teamwork but also encourages innovative thinking and cross-program collaboration, ensuring your contributions make a significant impact.

When answering this question, detail your previous roles and projects related to health systems strengthening. Highlight specific initiatives you were involved in, the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the outcomes achieved. Use metrics or success stories to showcase your impact.

In your response, explain your systematic approach to evaluation. Discuss how you review submissions based on predetermined criteria, assess quality and innovation, and keep bias at bay. Mention the importance of collaboration with other judges to ensure a comprehensive final decision.

To answer, share examples of past experiences where you helped create scoring rubrics or criteria. Emphasize your analytical skills and ability to align scoring criteria with project objectives and outcomes. If possible, provide an example where your scoring framework led to impactful decisions.

Discuss your strategy for resolving disagreements, emphasizing diplomacy and effective communication. Share an example of a past experience where you engaged in constructive dialogue that led to consensus or productive outcomes, reinforcing the importance of diverse perspectives.

Choose a specific project that underscores your problem-solving abilities. Detail the challenges faced, your specific role, the actions you took, and the results. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your expertise in health improvement and systems integration.

Frame your answer around the significance of diverse perspectives in addressing complex health issues. Discuss the need for inclusive approaches in program design and implementation, and how diversity can lead to more effective and sustainable health outcomes.

Outline a proactive approach to staying informed, such as following relevant publications, attending conferences, networking with professionals in the field, and being involved in continuous learning opportunities. Mention any organizations or communities that contribute to your professional development.

Share your passion for global health and the role of strong health systems in improving life quality. Discuss any personal experiences that ignited this passion, explaining how this motivation drives your work and aligns with R4D's mission.

Detail a specific instance where you were involved in implementing changes in health systems. Focus on your actions, collaboration with stakeholders, obstacles faced, and how the solution significantly improved health outcomes or processes.

Discuss the importance of clear communication, active listening, mutual respect, and leveraging each team member's strengths. Share an example of a successful collaboration that benefited from diverse inputs, emphasizing the positive outcomes achieved.