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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
EXECUTIVE SEARCH & RECRUITMENT SERVICES
RFP AERC/PROC/RFP/GSS/0005/2026-2027/001
1. BACKGROUND
Established in 1988, the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) is a premier pan-African economics research and capacity building institution, established to strengthen local capacity for conducting independent, rigorous inquiry into problems pertaining to the management of economies in Africa.
AERC operates as a multi-donor supported institution with a network spanning universities, research institutions, and policymakers across Africa. Its programmes include research, capacity building in economics, and policy engagement for outreach, all directed at enhancing economic policymaking across the continent.
The AERC is governed by a Board of Directors and is located in Nairobi, Kenya. The Consortium works closely with bilateral and multilateral donors, African governments, leading universities, and international bodies including the World Bank, IMF, African Development Bank, the African Union, Rockefeller Foundation, Ford Foundation, Gates Foundation, FCDO, SIDA, IDRC, and the governments of Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands.
2. PURPOSE OF THE TERMS OF REFERENCE
The AERC is initiating a competitive search for a visionary and accomplished Executive Director with proven ethical leadership to lead the Consortium, and a Chief Finance Officer with credible financial stewardship.
The Board of Directors seeks to engage a reputable executive search and recruitment firm to manage these critical appointments.
The Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Executive Director and Chief Finance Officer positions constitute this Request for Proposal (RFP) and invite qualified executive search firms to submit proposals detailing their:
Approach and methodology
Team composition
Relevant experience (including examples from nonprofit, private, and public sector organizations)
Fee structure for conducting the executive search
3. SCOPE OF WORK
3.1 Role Analysis & Search Strategy
Conduct stakeholder consultations with the AERC Board, Executive Committee, and Senior Management Team.
Develop a comprehensive candidate profile.
Create a search strategy aligned with AERC requirements.
Prepare an accurate and compelling candidate brief.
3.2 Candidate Identification & Sourcing
Conduct a proactive executive search beyond advertised applications.
Identify and approach passive candidates.
Leverage professional networks and executive databases.
Promote diversity, inclusion, gender, and geographical equity throughout the search process.
3.3 Screening, Assessment & Shortlisting
Conduct competency-based candidate screening.
Undertake structured interviews and leadership or psychometric assessments where appropriate.
Present a diverse longlist followed by a shortlist of approximately five candidates.
Provide detailed candidate assessment reports.
3.4 Interview Coordination & Selection Support
Coordinate interview logistics and candidate communication.
Advise the Board Search Committee on structured interviewing.
Support final selection and offer negotiations.
3.5 Reference & Background Verification
Conduct professional reference checks and background verification for preferred candidates.
3.6 Onboarding Support
Maintain engagement with AERC for a minimum six-month post-placement support period.
4. DELIVERABLES & TIMELINES
Please indicate the proposed timelines and work plan for delivering the assignment.
5. PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS
Firm Overview: Company profile, establishment year, team size, and African geographic presence.
Relevant Experience: Minimum of three comparable executive search assignments for NGOs, research institutions, or multilateral organizations.
Proposed Methodology: Search approach, sourcing strategy, assessment tools, and shortlisting methodology.
Team Composition: CVs of the lead consultant(s) and supporting team members.
Diversity & Inclusion: Description of how DEI principles are embedded throughout the recruitment process.
Timeline: Proposed implementation schedule from project inception to appointment.
Guarantee Policy: Replacement or guarantee policy should the appointed candidate not complete probation.
Fee Structure: Professional fees, expenses, retainer/success fee arrangement, and VAT applicability.
References: At least two client references from comparable executive search assignments.
How to apply
SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
Interested consultants are invited to submit both a technical and financial proposal addressed to:
The AERC Board Chair
African Economic Research Consortium (AERC)
3rd Floor, Middle East Bank Towers
Jakaya Kikwete Road
P.O. Box 62882 – 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
All submissions must clearly reference:
“Consultancy for Executive Search & Recruitment Services”.
Applications should be submitted no later than 14th July 2026.
DATA PROTECTION & CONFIDENTIALITY
All information shared during this process is strictly confidential and may not be disclosed without prior written consent from AERC.
AERC reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal and to cancel this RFP without incurring liability.
The selected firm will be required to sign a Confidentiality and Service Agreement before commencing the assignment.
AERC is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all recruitment processes.