Independent Expert Appraisal Group - Marine and Coastal Ecosystems Management Member

NOTE: Any requests for clarification or questions regarding this Terms of Reference (ToR) should be submitted in writing to procurementofficer@pactbelize.org and qmelmanager@pactbelize.org 

Click here to download complete ToR in pdf:IEAG Workgroup - Marine and Coastal Ecosystems Management Member

                                                                                               TERMS OF REFERENCE

GENERAL OBJECTIVE: To provide independent technical expertise and advisory support to PACT in the appraisal, review, and monitoring of programmes, projects, and financing mechanisms, ensuring alignment with national development priorities, environmental and social safeguards, climate resilience objectives, and PACT’s institutional policies and standards.  

DURATION: Annual Contract

BUDGET: BZD $600.00 per meeting, BZD $100.00 for each proposal reviewed.

1. Background

The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) manages national programmes and financing mechanisms that support biodiversity conservation, protected areas management, climate resilience, and sustainable development in Belize. To ensure effective, transparent, and accountable programme implementation, PACT utilizes operational manuals, environmental and social safeguards, monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and fiduciary and governance procedures.

To strengthen the quality, credibility, and integrity of programme reviews and meet the requirements of international funding partners, including the Green Climate Fund (GCF), Adaptation Fund (AF), and Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, PACT establishes an Independent Expert Appraisal Group (IEAG). The Group comprises qualified professionals who provide independent technical guidance and expertise in conservation finance, climate change, environmental management, social and gender safeguards, and sustainable development to support programme appraisal, compliance, and decision-making.

2. Function of the IEAG

The Independent Expert Appraisal Group (IEAG) provides independent technical review and advisory support to PACT across its programmes, projects, and financing mechanisms, including conservation investment, climate finance, environmental and social safeguards, and Third-Party Investments where applicable. The IEAG guides PACT and prospective funding recipients in developing and assessing proposals aligned with national priorities, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and PACT’s strategies and policies. It also advises the QMEL Unit and Programming Department on proposal merit, relevant national laws and policies, and compliance with PACT’s Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS), Performance Standards, and related frameworks.

3. Scope of Work

Roles and Responsibilities of the Independent Expert Appraisal Group (IEAG):

1. Provide independent technical review and advisory support to PACT and prospective funding recipients on programme and project development.
2. Assess the feasibility, sustainability, and strategic alignment of proposed investments.
3. Conduct technical screening and appraisal of funding proposals before submission to PACT’s Internal Screening Committee.
4. Review Environmental and Social Management Plans and related sub-plans for adequacy and compliance with applicable Performance Standards.
5. Recommend measures to address environmental, social, climate, fiduciary, and gender-related risks.
6. Advise on compliance with safeguards frameworks, national legislation, institutional policies, and donor requirements.
7. Support programme monitoring, evaluation, adaptive management, and learning.
8. Promote transparency, accountability, and technical rigor across PACT’s programmes and financing mechanisms.
9. Provide lessons learned and recommendations to strengthen the Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS).

4. Membership

The IEAG will comprise qualified experts in environmental and social safeguards, with additional specialists engaged as needed. The QMEL Unit will coordinate reviews, documentation, and technical recommendations. Experts will be selected through an open, merit-based process, engaged annually, and remunerated at BZD $600 per meeting plus $100 per proposal reviewed. Members must maintain independence, declare conflicts of interest, and uphold confidentiality. Their reviews and recommendations will be documented in technical assessment reports to support PACT’s programme appraisal and decision-making.

5. Qualifications and Experience Requirements

Essential: 

• Graduate degree (Master's or higher) in Marine Biology, Oceanography, Coastal Management, Fisheries Science, or a closely related field; 

• Minimum five (5) years of demonstrated professional experience in marine and coastal ecosystems management, fisheries, or marine protected areas; 

• Working knowledge of coral reef, mangrove, seagrass, and coastal ecosystem management; 

• Experience with marine spatial planning, integrated coastal zone management, or blue economy initiatives; 

• Familiarity with international safeguards frameworks (e.g., IFC Performance Standards, World Bank ESF, GCF ESS, AF ESP) or equivalent; 

• Strong analytical and written English communication skills. 

Desirable: 

• Prior experience conducting technical reviews for climate finance entities, conservation trust funds, or international donors; 

• Knowledge of Belize's National Protected Areas System, specifically the marine reserves; 

• Familiarity with PACT's operational context and portfolio. 
  

6. Application Procedures

Applicants shall submit the following in a single electronic package: 

• A cover letter indicating interest in serving as a Marine and Coastal Ecosystems Management expert on the IEAG roster; 

• A curriculum vitae detailing relevant qualifications, professional experience, and technical expertise; 

• The names and contact details of at least two (2) professional references.  

• Copies of relevant academic and professional certificates; 

Applications shall be submitted in English. 

                                                                       **Application deadline is 06 November 2026. **