Consultancy: Direct Access to Finance for LMMA Communities

About the role

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) seeks a consultant to operationalise direct access to finance for Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA) communities and to define the role of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) LMMA Alliance as a regional community‑financing platform. The assignment will focus on Madagascar and Tanzania, building on previous research to deliver a tested, scalable financing model.

Key responsibilities

• Review and critically assess financing scenarios and recommendations produced in the first phase of work.
• Identify the most viable financing pathway for LMMA communities in the Western Indian Ocean.
• Design an operational model that improves direct access to finance for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) and LMMAs.
• Pilot the selected model in two to three priority countries, with Madagascar and Tanzania as the main focus.
• Produce detailed implementation guidelines, monitoring frameworks and risk‑mitigation strategies.
• Engage with donors, government agencies, financial institutions and community representatives to secure buy‑in and resources.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in finance, development economics, environmental management or a related field.
• Proven experience designing and implementing financing mechanisms for community‑based conservation or natural‑resource projects.
• Demonstrated ability to work across multiple countries and cultures, particularly in the Western Indian Ocean region.
• Strong analytical and report‑writing skills, with a track record of producing actionable policy recommendations.

Required skills

• Grants management
• Donor relations

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence regional financing strategies for marine conservation.
• Collaboration with leading international experts and local stakeholders.
• Competitive consultancy fee paid upon delivery of milestones.