{"id":1992,"date":"2019-01-18T14:38:42","date_gmt":"2019-01-18T20:38:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/?page_id=1992"},"modified":"2026-09-08T10:35:40","modified_gmt":"2026-09-08T16:35:40","slug":"job-opportunities","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/job-opportunities\/","title":{"rendered":"Job Opportunities"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=&#8221;385&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_separator][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h3><strong>CONSIDERATIONS: <\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>MAR Fund is an organization committed to equity and diversity in the workplace. Our employment policy ensures that all decisions\u2014from recruitment to professional development\u2014are based on merit and individual qualifications. We have a zero-tolerance policy on any form of discrimination or harassment. As an organization working toward the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of marine and coastal ecosystems in the Mesoamerican Reef, we seek to integrate diverse perspectives and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and sectors to strengthen our mission.<\/li>\n<li>Proponents are responsible for all costs associated with the preparation and presentation of proposals submitted to MAR Fund for evaluation on the framework of this request for proposals, and therefore there is no obligation on behalf of MAR Fund to cover such costs \u2013 either in whole or in part \u2013 or to provide any advance or compensation if their proposal is not selected.<\/li>\n<li>Proponents acknowledge and accept that the preparation of the proposal(s) does not constitute a financial obligation on behalf of MAR Fund, and therefore the economic and financial responsibility for the preparation of the proposal(s) is exclusive of the proponent(s), regardless of the selection process outcome.<\/li>\n<li>The selection process will be carried out in accordance with MAR Fund&#8217;s internal evaluation guidelines and the result will be final.<\/li>\n<li>Only applicants who advance to the next stage of the selection process will be contacted, and due to the number of applications, MAR Fund will not provide feedback to applicants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<\/p>\n<p>[vc_tta_accordion section_title_tag=&#8221;h3&#8243; style=&#8221;modern&#8221; color=&#8221;turquoise&#8221; spacing=&#8221;5&#8243; gap=&#8221;5&#8243; active_section=&#8221;99&#8243; collapsible_all=&#8221;true&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>[vc_tta_section title=&#8221;Offshore Sargassum Interception, Containment, and Collection in Quintana Roo, Mexico&#8221; tab_id=&#8221;OffshoreSargassumInterceptionContainmentCollection&#8221;][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;2\/12&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;391&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;9\/12&#8243;][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]<span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Terms of Reference for<br \/>\nMesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund)<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-size: 16pt;\"><strong>Offshore Sargassum Interception, Containment, and Collection in Quintana Roo, Mexico<\/strong><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>1. BACKGROUND<\/strong><br \/>\nThe Mesoamerican Reef stretches over 1,000 km along the Caribbean coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, supporting ecosystems and economies valued at approximately US$4.5 billion annually through tourism, fisheries, and coastal protection. However, declining reef health threatens these benefits and could result in economic losses reaching billions of dollars by 2030. The Mesoamerican Reef Fund promotes reef conservation through funding mechanisms and strategic partnerships, including MAR+Invest, launched in 2022. More information is available at <a href=\"https:\/\/mar-invest.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">mar-invest.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sargassum, a brown macroalgae, has increasingly inundated Caribbean shores, especially along Quintana Roo&#8217;s coastline. In 2024, Quintana Roo collected approximately 37,000 tons of sargassum, an increase of 60% compared to 2023. When improperly disposed of, sargassum can leach heavy metals such as arsenic and cadmium, threatening groundwater and marine ecosystems. Carbonwave transforms sargassum into agricultural and cosmetic products but faces seasonal processing capacity constraints. To mitigate these impacts, MAR+Invest and Carbonwave propose a feasibility study focused on intercepting floating biomass offshore using advanced engineered barrier geometries combined with enhanced collection and transfer systems.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Contracting Entity seeks a qualified consultant\/consortium to: (i) assess and shortlist offshore interception and collection technologies suitable for Quintana Roo; (ii) collect and analyze field and operational data to optimize siting and design; (iii) produce a ready-to-deploy pilot plan for one or two priority locations; and (iv) deliver a feasibility study addressing technical, environmental, regulatory, and economic dimensions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>Overall objective<\/strong><br \/>\nTo identify and advance technically feasible, environmentally and socially responsible, and cost-realistic solutions to intercept, collect, and transfer sargassum prior to beaching; and to design, deploy, and monitor a pilot nearshore barrier system suitable for scalable implementation in Quintana Roo.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Specific objectives:<\/strong><br \/>\nThe Consultant shall:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\">\n<li>Screen multiple interception\/collection\/transfer technology options (nearshore and offshore) and shortlist the best options using a transparent decision framework.<\/li>\n<li>Identify 1\u20132 feasible pilot locations and provide siting justification (technical, environmental and social, permitting, operational).<\/li>\n<li>Deliver an engineering package for a nearshore barrier pilot including three (3) anchoring\/mooring concepts evaluated and ranked, and a selected configuration for deployment.<\/li>\n<li>Support permitting preparation and deliver a permitting roadmap with agency map, required studies, and timeline, and estimated related costs.<\/li>\n<li>Deploy the selected pilot configuration during the 2027 sargassum arrival period (approximately from March to September of 2027) and implement a minimum 3-month monitoring program with defined key performance indicators and reporting.<\/li>\n<li>Deliver the implementation roadmap and recommendations for scale-up (including capital expenditure\/operating expenditure and operational requirements).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>3. DEFINITIONS AND SCOPE CLARIFICATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Nearshore:<\/strong> 0\u20131 km from shoreline, depths up to 15 m.<br \/>\n<strong>Offshore:<\/strong> more than 1 km from shoreline, more than 15 m depth.<br \/>\n<strong>Pilot Barrier:<\/strong> A physical barrier\/interception system deployed in nearshore waters to intercept and aggregate sargassum for subsequent transfer\/removal.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Phase I \u2013 Existing Practices and Information Review<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 0: Inception and Work Planning<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Hold a kick-off meeting and confirm objectives, assumptions, responsibilities, and decision gates.<\/li>\n<li>Submit an Inception Report including methodology, workplan, stakeholder map, data needs, fieldwork plan (if applicable), and risk register.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Deliverable:<\/strong> Inception Report. <strong>Due:<\/strong> end of Week 2 (15 November 2026).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 1: Data Review and Gap Assessment<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\">\n<li>Compile and review existing relevant data (as available), including:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Historical sargassum arrival patterns, seasonality, and volumes.<\/li>\n<li>Bathymetry and seabed conditions.<\/li>\n<li>Metocean conditions (waves, currents, wind, storms).<\/li>\n<li>Navigation constraints and marine traffic.<\/li>\n<li>Sensitive receptors (habitats, protected areas, marine fauna).<\/li>\n<li>Existing collection infrastructure and operations including public, private, and academic initiatives related to sargassum interception, collection, and management.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Identify key data gaps and propose a plan to close gaps (desk-based and\/or field-based).<\/li>\n<li>Establish a clear baseline and assumptions log for engineering and feasibility calculations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Deliverables:<\/strong> Data Review &amp; Gap Assessment Memo; Assumptions Log; Data Acquisition Plan (if needed). <strong>Due:<\/strong> end of Week 4 (29 November 2026).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 2: Technology Options Identification and Screening (Nearshore + Offshore)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\">\n<li>Review and identify a shortlist of technology options that address:\n<ul>\n<li>Interception nearshore and offshore (booms, barriers, netting, etc.).<\/li>\n<li>Collection and aggregation.<\/li>\n<li>Transfer systems (vessels, pumps, conveyors, offloading etc.), including onshore and offshore storage\/handling options.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>For each option, provide:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Concept description + schematic<\/li>\n<li>Operational concept (personnel, equipment, operations and maintenance)<\/li>\n<li>Regulatory status<\/li>\n<li>Preliminary capital and operating cost estimates and cost drivers<\/li>\n<li>Key risks (technical, safety, environmental and social, permitting) and mitigations, including documented feedback on strengths and shortcomings from operators of comparable systems and affected communities.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Apply a decision matrix with transparent scoring criteria (feasibility, cost, safety, environmental and social risk, permitting complexity, scalability) and recommend a preferred pathway.<\/li>\n<li>Identify specialist permitting advisors who can support navigation of the authorization process, and set out for each authorization required: the responsible authority, the studies or documentation required, the estimated official and advisory costs, and the estimated processing time.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Deliverables:<\/strong> Technology Options &amp; Screening Report (with decision matrix), due end of Week 9 (3 January 2027); technical review and approval meeting with MAR Fund and Carbonwave to confirm the preferred technology pathway before Phase II begins, to be held by the end of Week 11 (17 January 2027).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Phase II \u2013 Pilot Interception and Collection System: Design, Deployment, and Monitoring<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 3: Pilot Site Identification and Selection<\/strong><br \/>\nThe Consultant shall:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\">\n<li>Propose 1\u20132 candidate pilot sites with maps and coordinates.<\/li>\n<li>Evaluate each site against:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Engineering suitability (depth, seabed, metocean exposure)<\/li>\n<li>Logistics (access, staging area, offloading)<\/li>\n<li>Navigation and safety constraints<\/li>\n<li>Environmental and social sensitivity and stakeholder considerations<\/li>\n<li>Permitting feasibility and timeline<\/li>\n<li>Emergency Response Plan (barrier breach, anchor drag, vessel strike, entanglement).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Recommend a preferred site and provide justification.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Deliverable:<\/strong> Pilot Site Selection Note (including geographic information system and map package). <strong>Due:<\/strong> end of Week 11 (17 January 2027), together with the client validation meeting.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 4: Nearshore Pilot Barrier Engineering Design Package<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\">\n<li>Develop a pilot design package including:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>System design and layout drawings (plan + profiles)<\/li>\n<li>Performance assumptions and design basis<\/li>\n<li>Materials selection and corrosion considerations<\/li>\n<li>Installation method statement (high level)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Develop and evaluate three (3) anchoring\/mooring concepts, including:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Design assumptions and load cases<\/li>\n<li>Pros\/cons, risks, maintainability<\/li>\n<li>Ranked recommendation and selection rationale<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Develop an operations and maintenance concept including inspection and maintenance schedule, resources and spare parts, and operational staffing, and timeline and deliverables for the pilot.<\/li>\n<li>Define a commissioning plan and acceptance checks for installed equipment.<\/li>\n<li>Define the operational concept for collection from the barrier, transfer of sargassum to shore, and onward handling or final disposal, including equipment, vessel and offloading requirements, indicative cycle times, and the interface with Carbonwave&#8217;s receiving operations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Deliverable:<\/strong> Pilot Engineering Design Package (drawings + narrative + calculations\/assumptions). <strong>Due:<\/strong> end of Week 18 (7 March 2027), so that deployment readiness can begin immediately and installation can start in the first week of April 2027.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 5: Environmental, Social, Occupational Health and Safety, and Permitting Support<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall prepare environmental and social deliverables according to the pilot&#8217;s risk profile and aligned with good international industry practice. At minimum:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\">\n<li>Environmental, social and occupational health and safety risk register covering construction, operations, maintenance and decommissioning (inspection, fouling control, connector checks, seasonal adjustments, storm retrieval\/redeployment).<\/li>\n<li>Mitigation Measures (e.g., navigation marking\/lighting, wildlife interaction prevention, waste handling, spill prevention, worker safety).<\/li>\n<li>Stakeholder Engagement Approach (who is consulted, how, and grievance channel).<\/li>\n<li>Emergency Response Plan minimum scenarios:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Barrier breach\/failure<\/li>\n<li>Anchor drag<\/li>\n<li>Vessel strike\/collision<\/li>\n<li>Entanglement risk (wildlife or vessels)<\/li>\n<li>Severe weather response and demobilization triggers<\/li>\n<li>Disposal of old barriers<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Permitting Roadmap: agencies, required authorizations\/studies, sequence, timeline, and dependencies.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Deliverables:<\/strong> Environmental, Social and Occupational Health and Safety Package; Emergency Response Plan; Permitting Roadmap. <strong>Due:<\/strong> Permitting Roadmap by end of Week 13 (31 January 2027), so that permit applications can be filed from early February; Environmental, Social and Occupational Health and Safety Package and Emergency Response Plan by end of Week 18 (7 March 2027). All authorizations required for installation shall be in hand by end of Week 21 (28 March 2027).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 6: Deployment Support and Commissioning (Pilot)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall lead the pilot deployment activities, engaging and supervising any specialist marine contractors and vessels required. Bidders shall price this scope in full:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Pre-deployment readiness review, including appropriate permitting for pilot.<\/li>\n<li>Installation oversight (or direct installation management if contracted).<\/li>\n<li>Commissioning checks and documentation.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;As-built&#8221; documentation.<\/li>\n<li>Permitting for installation and operation: the Consultant shall prepare and submit all applications, studies, and supporting documentation required for the pilot, and shall obtain the authorizations in Carbonwave prior to installation.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Deliverables:<\/strong> Installation &amp; Commissioning Report; As-Built Drawings\/Package with permitting installation. <strong>Due:<\/strong> deployment readiness (including all authorizations in hand) completed by end of Week 21 (28 March 2027); installation of the pilot beginning in the first week of April 2027 and installation and commissioning completed no later than end of Week 24 (18 April 2027), before the peak of the 2027 sargassum season; Installation &amp; Commissioning Report and As-Built Package due end of Week 26 (2 May 2027).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 7: Monitoring Program (Minimum 3 months) and Reporting<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall implement or supervise a minimum three (3) month monitoring program that includes:<\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: decimal;\">\n<li>Barrier performance indicators, at minimum:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Interception efficiency (method defined)<\/li>\n<li>Quantity intercepted and removed (with measurement approach)<\/li>\n<li>Downtime and causes (categorization)<\/li>\n<li>Maintenance frequency and failure modes<\/li>\n<li>Collection and transfer performance: tons of sargassum (wet weight) removed from the barrier and delivered to shore per operating day, vessel and equipment hours, personnel hours, and resulting cost per ton, recorded in a format usable for the Task 8 capital and operating cost update<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Environmental, social and occupational health and safety monitoring, at minimum:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Incident and near-miss log<\/li>\n<li>Observations of wildlife interactions (including near-misses)<\/li>\n<li>Complaints\/grievances log and resolution tracking<\/li>\n<li>Verification of mitigation effectiveness at and around the pilot site, including condition of nearby reef, seagrass and benthic habitat, water quality observations, and accumulation of debris or marine litter, compared against the pre-deployment baseline established under Task 1<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Performance optimization recommendations (design or operational changes) based on observed results.<\/li>\n<li>At the end of the monitoring period, execute or supervise demobilization of the pilot: retrieval or securing of the barrier, moorings and anchors, site clearance, handling and disposal of removed materials, and confirmation of seabed and site condition \u2014 unless the Client confirms in writing that the pilot will remain in operation.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>Deliverables:<\/strong> Monthly Monitoring Briefs, due end of Weeks 29, 33, 37, 41 and 45 (23 May, 20 June, 18 July, 15 August and 12 September 2027); Final Pilot Performance &amp; Monitoring Report, due end of Week 48 (3 October 2027). The monitoring program shall commence upon commissioning (Week 25, from 19 April 2027) and run for approximately five months, covering the full 2027 sargassum season, with a minimum of three months.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Task 8: Scale-Up and Implementation Roadmap<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Consultant shall provide:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Scale-up pathway options, constraints, and enabling requirements<\/li>\n<li>Updated capital and operating cost ranges based on pilot learnings, to manufacture in Mexico.<\/li>\n<li>Recommended next steps (including additional studies, procurement plan, implementation schedule)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>Deliverable:<\/strong> Final Feasibility &amp; Implementation Roadmap Report, including the bilingual summary presentation. <strong>Due:<\/strong> end of Week 50 (17 October 2027).<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>4. DELIVERABLES CRITERIA<\/strong><br \/>\nProvide all deliverables in English; presentation bilingual (English and Spanish). Submit digitally via shared link or secure transfer. Unless otherwise noted: text in PDF and editable (Word\/PowerPoint), data in CSV\/SHP\/GeoTIFF, figures as PNG\/JPG, drawings as PDF and editable (e.g., DWG).<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>5. OVERSIGHT<\/strong><br \/>\nThe consultant will work under the direct oversight of the MAR+Invest Coordinator at MAR Fund, who will serve as the focal point for this consultancy. The consultant will work in close coordination with the Research and Development team of Carbonwave. Regular update meetings (e.g., biweekly or monthly) will be held with MAR Fund and Carbonwave representatives to monitor progress. Final approval of all products and reports will be agreed with MAR Fund. Only upon written approval by MAR Fund will a deliverable be considered accepted.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>6. DURATION OF THE CONTRACT<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Expected Start Date:<\/strong> 1 November 2026 (or the date of contract signature, if later).<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>Total Duration:<\/strong> 50 weeks from contract signature. Installation shall begin in the first week of April 2027 and installation and commissioning shall be completed no later than the end of Week 24 (18 April 2027), before the peak of the 2027 sargassum season.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>7. PAYMENTS<\/strong><br \/>\nPayments for this consultancy will be disbursed according to a deliverable-based schedule, tied to the satisfactory completion of agreed products and milestones. All payments will be contingent on MAR Fund&#8217;s approval of the corresponding deliverables. The consultant&#8217;s financial proposal should consider all the costs of the consultancy (professional fees, travel, equipment, permits, etc.), as no additional reimbursements will be made outside the agreed contract sum.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>8. PLACE OF WORK<\/strong><br \/>\nFull-time physical presence on-site is required throughout the entire installation, testing, and operational phase of the barrier. Preference will be given to consultants based in Mexico, particularly those with local knowledge and operational capacity in Quintana Roo. The consultant must manage their own travel logistics within Mexico, particularly to coastal areas like Canc\u00fan, Tulum, or Cozumel.<\/p>\n<p><strong>9. QUALIFICATIONS AND ATTRIBUTES OF THE CONSULTANTS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Consultant Qualifications<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Demonstrated experience in marine engineering projects (barriers, moorings, coastal\/nearshore infrastructure, or analogous systems).<\/li>\n<li>Proven track record in feasibility studies and pilot deployments in coastal environments.<\/li>\n<li>Ability to work in Mexico and coordinate with local maritime and environmental requirements; proficiency in English and Spanish.<\/li>\n<li>Experience with monitoring, interception, or management of floating biomass (e.g., macroalgae, marine debris, or similar materials) in coastal environments is considered an advantage.<\/li>\n<li>Ability to produce high-quality written materials in both Spanish and English.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Key Personnel (minimum)<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Team Lead \/ Project Manager (\u2265 5 years relevant experience)<\/li>\n<li>Marine Engineer \/ Mooring Specialist<\/li>\n<li>Metocean\/Oceanography Specialist<\/li>\n<li>Environmental, Social and Occupational Health and Safety Specialist (marine\/coastal experience)<\/li>\n<li>Permitting\/Regulatory Specialist (Mexico coastal\/marine preferred)<\/li>\n<li>Geographic Information System \/ Data Specialist<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><strong>10. APPLICATION PROCEDURE<\/strong><br \/>\nProposals shall include: (1) Technical approach and methodology aligned to Tasks 0\u20138; (2) Workplan and schedule (Gantt) with resourcing plan; (3) Team composition and curricula vitae; (4) Relevant project experience with client references; (5) Environmental, social and occupational health and safety approach and risk management method; (6) Assumptions and dependencies (data availability, vessels, permits); (7) Financial proposal with breakdown by task (fees, travel, surveys, equipment, contingencies if permitted).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Submission Deadline:<\/strong> October 7, 2026 at 23:59 hrs (GMT-5, Canc\u00fan local time). Late submissions will not be considered.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Contact:<\/strong><br \/>\nAmy Jones, MAR+Invest Coordinator \u2013 MAR Fund (Email: <a href=\"mailto:ajones@marfund.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ajones@marfund.org<\/a>)<br \/>\nSebasti\u00e1n Aguilar, Research and Development Scientist \u2013 Carbonwave (Email: <a href=\"mailto:saguilar@carbonwave.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">saguilar@carbonwave.com<\/a>)[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;5px&#8221;][vc_btn title=&#8221;For more information, please download the Terms of Reference.&#8221; color=&#8221;violet&#8221; i_icon_fontawesome=&#8221;far fa-file-pdf&#8221; add_icon=&#8221;true&#8221; link=&#8221;url:https%3A%2F%2Fmarfund.org%2Fen%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F09%2FTerms_of_Reference_Sargassum-offshore-collection-Sept-2026.pdf|target:_blank&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/12&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_tta_section]<\/p>\n<p>[vc_tta_section title=&#8221;Consultancy for the Development of Baseline Maps (Target Indicators) &#8211; Protection of Maritime Resources in Central America III Project (Phase III)&#8221; tab_id=&#8221;ConsultancyDevelopmentBaselineMaps&#8221;][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;2\/12&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;391&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;9\/12&#8243;][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]<span style=\"font-size: 17pt;\"><strong>Terms of Reference for<br \/>\nMesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund)<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><strong>Consultancy for the Development of Baseline Maps (Target Indicators)<br \/>\nProtection of Maritime Resources in Central America III Project (Phase III<\/strong><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<strong>1. Background<\/strong><br \/>\nThe Mesoamerican Reef Fund, Inc. (MAR Fund) is a regional and private environmental fund with the goal of protecting the Mesoamerican Reef (MAR) ecoregion shared by Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. Its mission is to seek, secure and facilitate regional funding, fosters partnerships and drives capacity building for the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of marine and coastal ecosystems in the Mesoamerican Reef.<\/p>\n<p>The MAR Fund Board of Directors is composed of the founding funds, a representative from the Central American Commission on Environment and Development (CCAD), conservation experts from each participating country, and international collaborators\/donors.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund is established as a non-profit entity in the United States, with a 501 (c) (3) tax- exempt status. Although it is legally registered outside the MAR region, its purpose is to fund conservation and sustainable development actions in the four countries that share de MAR ecoregion: Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. Since 2014, it has had an established branch in Guatemala, where the coordinating office is located.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund mobilizes and channels financial resources to partners implementing actions directly on the ground, strengthening the management of marine and coastal protected areas, carrying out ecosystem restoration, and promoting sustainable livelihoods throughout the region, among other efforts. Its beneficiaries include community-based organizations, non-governmental organizations, government institutions, academic institutions, and individuals. MAR Fund distributes financial resources through various funding mechanisms, ranging from small grants to large-scale, multi-year projects.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund implements its strategic actions through five programs:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Saving Our Protected Areas<\/li>\n<li>Fishing for the Future<\/li>\n<li>Climate Change<\/li>\n<li>Clean Water for the Reef<\/li>\n<li>Blue and Regenerative Economy<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Additionally, MAR Fund supports and fosters collaboration among regional networks, including the Connectivity Network, the Coral Reef Restoration Network, and the Fish Spawning Aggregation Sites Network.<\/p>\n<p>Under the program Saving Our Protected Areas, focused on establishing and protecting an interconnected network of priority marine and coastal protected areas, MAR Fund launched the Implementation of the project \u201cProtection of Maritime Resources in Central America III (Phase III)\u201d in December 2021, co-financed by the Federal Republic of Germany through KfW. Its objective is the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources in and within selected marine and coastal protected areas in the MAR.<\/p>\n<p>This project supports 32 coastal marine protected areas (CMPAs) through 20 specific projects <strong>(Annex A)<\/strong>. The projects include activities to be carried out through funding streams for conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources, and they focus on the following priority ecosystems and resources: mangroves, seagrasses, coral reefs, and fisheries.<\/p>\n<p>Performance is measured using three indicators:<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">Indicator O1: Area in hectares with improved conservation.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">Indicator O2: Area of relevant ecosystems with more sustainable use.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">Indicator O3: Number of initiatives supporting the adaptation of vulnerable populations to climate change.<\/p>\n<p>More information on Phase III is available at this \u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/protection-of-maritime-resources-in-central-america-iii\/\">link.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Objectives<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>a) General objective<\/strong><br \/>\nDevelop digital geospatial maps of the coastal \u00a0marine protected areas (CMPAs) covered by Phase III Project, to serve as an official resource for graphically illustrating compliance with the indicators for Objectives 1 and 2 of Phase III<\/p>\n<p><strong>b) Specific objectives<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Generate accurate vector files for \u00a0the selected APMCs, \u00a0showing\u00a0 the areas\u00a0 in hectares with the best conservation status and the areas of relevant ecosystems with the most sustainable land use.<\/li>\n<li>Produce high-resolution visual maps for indicators 1 and 2.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>III. \u00a0Scope and Activities<\/strong><br \/>\nThe consultant must perform, at a minimum, the following activities:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Compilation and validation of official boundary data for CMPAs in Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, with the support of project beneficiaries.<\/li>\n<li>Digitization and\/or editing of vector layers.<\/li>\n<li>Structuring of geographic databases (detailed attribute tables).<\/li>\n<li>Generation of map outputs for quick visualization.<\/li>\n<li>Validation of the maps produced with project beneficiaries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>IV. Products and Technical Specifications<\/strong><br \/>\nAll products must be delivered in accordance with the following technical standards:<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><strong>Delivery formats:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>GIS (Geographic Information Systems): <\/strong>Files in Shapefile (.shp) or Geopackage format. For Shapefiles, all components (.shp, .shx, .dbf, .prj) must be included.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Q<\/strong><strong>uick View<\/strong>: Files in KML or KMZ format (compatible with Google Earth Pro).<\/li>\n<li><strong>E<\/strong><strong>ditable structure<\/strong>: All generated maps, source files, and georeferenced information must be submitted in editable formats and organized as a project, with all corresponding layers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>I<\/strong><strong>mage<\/strong>: Final maps in high-resolution JPEG and PNG formats (minimum 300 dpi) for each of the projects supported by Phase III.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><strong>Technical Specifications:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>C<\/strong><strong>oordinate system: <\/strong>WGS 1984 (EPSG:4326).<\/li>\n<li><strong>P<\/strong><strong>rojection<\/strong>: \u00a0Geographic\u00a0 \u00a0(latitude\/longitude)\u00a0 \u00a0and\u00a0 \u00a0UTM\u00a0\u00a0 (Universal \u00a0Transverse Mercator).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mi<\/strong><strong>n<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>mum table attributes<\/strong>: Name of the site or area, country, type of area (e.g., fishery recovery area), and reference year.<\/li>\n<li><strong>M<\/strong><strong>etadata<\/strong>: layer name and description, data source, creation\/update date, scale or spatial resolution, generation and processing methodology.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Software compatibility<\/strong>: preference for open formats, compatibility with QGIS.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>V. Deliverables<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>D<\/strong><strong>eliverable 1<\/strong>: Work plan with a timeline and data validation methodology.<\/li>\n<li><strong>D<\/strong><strong>eliverable 2<\/strong>: First draft of the maps and GIS files, validated by the CMPAs, for technical review by the Phase III Implementing Unit based on the list in <strong>Annex B<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>D<\/strong><strong>eliverable 3<\/strong>: Final baseline mapping package (GIS, KML, and JPEG) properly labeled based on the list in <strong>Annex B<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>D<\/strong><strong>eliverable 4<\/strong>: \u00a0Standardization \u00a0of \u00a0the \u00a0maps \u00a0previously \u00a0prepared \u00a0by \u00a0some beneficiaries of the CMPAs listed in <strong>Annex A <\/strong>to the format of the maps produced through this consultancy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<strong> Payment<\/strong><br \/>\nA \u00a0contract \u00a0for \u00a0professional \u00a0services will \u00a0be \u00a0signed, \u00a0and \u00a0payment \u00a0will be \u00a0made\u00a0 upon submission and approval of the deliverables.<\/p>\n<p><strong>VII. \u00a0Area of work<\/strong><br \/>\nThe consultant may be based in any of the countries of the Mesoamerican Reef (Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras). The consultant will work remotely from its place of residence.<\/p>\n<p><strong>VIII. \u00a0Coordination and supervision<\/strong><br \/>\nThe consultant will work in close coordination with the beneficiaries and the Phase III Project Implementation Unit, under the technical supervision of the Phase III Coordinator. All information generated will be the exclusive property of MAR Fund.<\/p>\n<p><strong>IX. Qualifications and skills<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Degree in \u00a0Forestry \u00a0Engineering, \u00a0Environmental \u00a0Engineering, \u00a0Geography, \u00a0or \u00a0a related field with a specialization in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).<\/li>\n<li>Verifiable experience in creating maps for marine conservation projects or protected area management.<\/li>\n<li>Proficiency in software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, and Google Earth Pro.<\/li>\n<li>Knowledge of the MAR region (preferred).<\/li>\n<li>100% bilingual in English and Spanish<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>X. Application Procedure<\/strong><br \/>\nInterested candidates who meet the requirements should submit:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Resume.<\/li>\n<li>Portfolio of relevant work.<\/li>\n<li>Three employment references (name, position, and email address).<\/li>\n<li>Signed Declaration of Undertaking form (<strong>A<\/strong><strong>nnex C<\/strong>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>XI. Deadline and contact information<\/strong><br \/>\nPlease send the requested information by September 20, 2026, to the following email address: <a href=\"mailto:xflamenco@marfund.org\">xflamenco@marfund.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>XII. \u00a0Consideraciones<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>MAR Fund is an organization committed to equity and diversity in the workplace. Our employment policy ensures that all decisions\u2014from recruitment to professional development\u2014are based on merit and individual qualifications. We have a zero-tolerance policy on any form of discrimination or harassment. As an organization working toward the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of marine and coastal ecosystems in the Mesoamerican Reef, we seek to integrate diverse perspectives and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and sectors to strengthen our mission.<\/li>\n<li>Proponents are responsible for all costs associated with the preparation and presentation of proposals submitted to MAR Fund for evaluation on the framework of this request for proposals, and therefore there is no obligation on behalf of MAR Fund to cover such costs \u2013 either in whole or in part \u2013 or to provide any advance or compensation if their proposal is not selected.<\/li>\n<li>Proponents acknowledge and accept that the preparation of the proposal(s) does not constitute a financial obligation on behalf of MAR Fund, and therefore the economic and financial \u00a0responsibility \u00a0for \u00a0the \u00a0preparation \u00a0of \u00a0the \u00a0proposal(s) \u00a0is \u00a0exclusive \u00a0of \u00a0the proponent(s), regardless of the selection process outcome.<\/li>\n<li>The \u00a0selection \u00a0process \u00a0will \u00a0be \u00a0carried \u00a0out \u00a0in \u00a0accordance \u00a0with \u00a0MAR \u00a0Fund\u2019s \u00a0internal evaluation guidelines and the result will be final.<\/li>\n<li>Only applicants who advance to the next stage of the selection process will be contacted, and due to the number of applications, MAR Fund will not provide feedback to applicants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;5px&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;8214&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;8215&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;8216&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;8217&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_btn title=&#8221;For more information, please download the Terms of Reference.&#8221; color=&#8221;violet&#8221; i_icon_fontawesome=&#8221;far fa-file-pdf&#8221; add_icon=&#8221;true&#8221; link=&#8221;url:https%3A%2F%2Fmarfund.org%2Fen%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F08%2FTerms-of-Reference_LF-Target-Indicator-Maps.pdf|target:_blank&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/12&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=&#8221;Consultancy to Conduct the Financial Gap Analysis of the Beneficiary CMPAs under the Project Protection of Marine Resources in Central America III Using the MARFin Web 4.0 Platform&#8221; tab_id=&#8221;ConsultancyConductFinancialGap&#8221;][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;2\/12&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;391&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;9\/12&#8243;][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]<span style=\"font-size: 17pt;\"><strong>Terms of Reference for<br \/>\nMesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund)<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><strong>Consultancy to Conduct the Financial Gap Analysis of the Beneficiary CMPAs under the Project Protection of Marine Resources in Central America III Using the MARFin Web 4.0 Platform<\/strong><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<strong>1. Background<\/strong><br \/>\nThe Mesoamerican Reef Fund, Inc. (MAR Fund) is a regional environmental fund established with the objective of supporting the protection of the Mesoamerican Reef System (MAR). Its mission is to seek, secure, and facilitate regional financing, foster partnerships, and promote capacity building for the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of marine and coastal ecosystems in the Mesoamerican Reef.<\/p>\n<p>The MAR Fund Board of Directors is composed of the founding funds, a representative of the Central American Commission for Environment and Development (CCAD), conservation experts from each participating country, and international partners\/donors.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund is established as a non-profit organization in the United States, with 501(c)(3) status and tax-exempt status. Although it is legally registered outside the region, its purpose is to finance conservation and sustainable development actions in the four countries that share the Mesoamerican Reef ecoregion: Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. Since\u00a02015, MAR Fund has maintained a branch office in Guatemala, where its coordinating office is located.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund mobilizes and channels financial resources to partners implementing actions directly in the field, strengthening the management of marine and coastal protected areas, carrying out ecosystem restoration, and promoting sustainable livelihoods in the region, among other activities. Its beneficiaries include community organizations, non-governmental organizations, government institutions, academic institutions, and individuals. It distributes financial resources through different mechanisms, ranging from small grants to large-scale and multi-year projects.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund&#8217;s actions are implemented through five programs:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Saving Our Protected Areas<\/li>\n<li>Fishing for the Future<\/li>\n<li>Climate Change<\/li>\n<li>Clean Water for the Reef<\/li>\n<li>Blue and Regenerative Economy<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Additionally, MAR Fund supports and coordinates regional networks, such as the Connectivity Network, the Reef Restoration Network, and the Fish Spawning Aggregation Sites Network.<\/p>\n<p><strong>P<\/strong><strong>roject: Protection of Marine Resources in Central America III (Phase III)<\/strong><br \/>\nWithin the framework of the <em>Saving Our Protected Areas <\/em>program, which focuses on establishing and protecting an interconnected network of priority marine and coastal protected areas, MAR Fund began implementing the project <em>Protection of Marine Resources in Central America III (Phase III) <\/em>in December 2021, as a continuation of Phases I and II.<\/p>\n<p>During the first two phases, nine priority coastal and marine protected areas (CMPAs) were supported. Under Phase III, 31 CMPAs are supported through 20 projects.<\/p>\n<p>Phase III is co-financed by the Federal Republic of Germany through KfW. Its objective is the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources in and among the selected marine and coastal protected areas within the Mesoamerican Reef. The expected results are:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>CMPAs have improved conditions for the conservation of their natural resources.<\/li>\n<li>Measures are implemented for the sustainable use of CMPA natural resources with the participation of local communities.<\/li>\n<li>Cooperation among key stakeholders for the conservation of MAR biodiversity is strengthened.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>More information on Phase III is available through the following \u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/protection-of-maritime-resources-in-central-america-iii\/\">link.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>MAR+Invest Initiative<\/strong><br \/>\nIn 2022, MAR Fund established a partnership with organizations from the MAR countries, including New Ventures Group &amp; Viwala, the Mexican Fund for the Conservation of Nature (FMCN) &amp; Sureste Sostenible, and the Healthy Reefs for Healthy People Initiative (HRHP), to design and launch the MAR+Invest initiative with the support of the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR).<\/p>\n<p>MAR+Invest is a blended finance mechanism with a strong impact monitoring and evaluation system, business acceleration, and capacity building. Its purpose is to enable the conditions for a sustainable ocean economy in the MAR by investing in market-based initiatives that contribute to reef health and resilience.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<strong>Objectives:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Conserve the long-term value of MAR natural capital through the generation, development, and growth of market-based opportunities that reduce threats to the reef.<\/li>\n<li>Promote projects that address long-term challenges in the MAR and require different types of capital.<\/li>\n<li>Generate sustainable financial solutions for MAR CMPAs.<\/li>\n<li>Develop financial mechanisms with donors and investors that reduce risks, close early-stage capital gaps, and finance reef-positive solutions.<\/li>\n<li>Mobilize additional capital \u2014 philanthropic, development, and commercial \u2014 for the initiative.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>More information on MAR+Invest is available through the following \u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/mar-invest.org\/\">link.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>The MARFin Tool: A Financial Analysis Platform for CMPAs<\/strong><br \/>\nMAR Fund, with the support of WWF and the French Facility for Global Environment (FFEM), developed a financial tool called MARFin. This tool enables protected areas to plan their long-term expenditures and determine their financial gaps.<\/p>\n<p>In 2024, MAR Fund, through the MAR+Invest initiative and with the support of the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR), updated the tool into a user-friendly and easily accessible online platform. Through MARFin, protected areas can structure their complete financial framework, starting from the most basic level of revenues and expenditures, allowing them to develop budgets and conduct financial planning.<\/p>\n<p>Currently, MARFin Web 4.0 operates as an online platform connected to a centralized and remotely accessible \u00a0database \u00a0that \u00a0models and projects\u00a0 financial resources\u00a0 based \u00a0on information related to revenues, expenditures, investments, and operational needs of CMPAs.<\/p>\n<p>As part of the actions promoted under Phase III to strengthen the financial sustainability of beneficiary CMPAs, the use of the MARFin Web 4.0 tool has been promoted. However, there are currently information gaps, methodological differences, and limitations in the systematization of financial data among the different protected areas, which makes it difficult to adequately complete and harmonize the information required in the platform.<\/p>\n<p>In this context, MAR Fund seeks to hire a specialized consultancy to provide support to beneficiary CMPAs in validating and updating their financial information in MARFin Web 4.0, while strengthening the capacities of their technical teams. In addition, the consultant will conduct a financial and gap analysis for each CMPA and formulate strategic recommendations to optimize financial management.<\/p>\n<p><strong>II. Objectives<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>1. General Objective<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Provide specialized technical assistance to Phase III and MAR+Invest beneficiary CMPAs to strengthen their use of the MARFin Web 4.0 platform through the collection, validation, and analysis of financial information from the protected areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>2. Specific Objectives<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Provide technical support to the administrators and co-administrators of Phase III and MAR+Invest CMPAs to complete and validate available and projected revenue and expenditure information in the MARFin Web 4.0 tool.<\/li>\n<li>Strengthen the capacities of personnel from beneficiary CMPAs to use and update financial information on the MARFin Web 4.0 platform.<\/li>\n<li>Conduct a financial analysis of the information recorded in MARFin Web 4.0, generating financial gap \u00a0reports \u00a0for \u00a0each \u00a0protected \u00a0area \u00a0and \u00a0an overall \u00a0results \u00a0report \u00a0that contributes to financial planning and decision-making for the sustainability of Phase III and MAR+Invest beneficiary CMPAs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Proposed Methodology<\/strong><br \/>\nThe consultancy will be conducted remotely through virtual coordination meetings and technical assistance sessions with the person designated by each CMPA to enter the data into the tool.<\/p>\n<p>The working methodology will focus on personalized technical support for the collection, review, cleaning, validation, and uploading of financial information to the MARFin Web 4.0 platform. It will also promote the harmonization of criteria for recording and analyzing financial information among the different CMPAs in order to improve the quality, consistency, and comparability of the data entered into the tool.<\/p>\n<p>The consultancy will combine document review, virtual working sessions to provide individualized technical assistance, and continuous validation and analysis of the financial and operational information of participating CMPAs, culminating in the preparation of the corresponding reports.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Key Information Sources<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>MARFin Web 4.0 tool and related technical documentation.<\/li>\n<li>Financial and operational information provided by the administrators and co- administrators of Phase III and MAR+Invest beneficiary CMPAs.<\/li>\n<li>Meetings and interviews with CMPA administrators and technical-financial personnel.<\/li>\n<li>Institutional documents, budgets, operational plans, and financial reports of the CMPAs that are available.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>III. Activities<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Review the current status and quality of the information entered into MARFin Web 4.0 by each beneficiary CMPA.<\/li>\n<li>Harmonize the classification criteria for budget items to ensure data comparability and consistency.<\/li>\n<li>Identify gaps, inconsistencies, and financial information needs within the MARFin Web 4.0 tool.<\/li>\n<li>Contact the administrators and co-administrators of beneficiary CMPAs to explain and request the required information.<\/li>\n<li>Schedule all virtual meetings and support administrators and co-administrators in entering and validating CMPA financial information in the MARFin Web 4.0 tool.<\/li>\n<li>Collect signed Data Sharing Agreements for the use of information in MARFin Web 4.0.<\/li>\n<li>Support the creation of accounts and data entry on the platform.<\/li>\n<li>Analyze the revenue and expenditure structure of each CMPA.<\/li>\n<li>Prepare financial gap and projection reports using MARFin Web 4.0 for at least 20 protected areas (Annex A), including recommendations to improve the financial management of each one.<\/li>\n<li>Identify financial gaps and financing needs.<\/li>\n<li>Formulate recommendations to strengthen the financial sustainability of CMPAs.<\/li>\n<li>Prepare a general regional financial gap analysis report in English and Spanish.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure that the consultancy complies with MAR Fund&#8217;s environmental and social safeguards (<a href=\"https:\/\/marfund.org\/es\/sgas\/\">https:\/\/marfund.org\/es\/sgas\/)<\/a>, as well as institutional policies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>IV. Expected Deliverables<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Directory containing CMPA contacts and signed data-use agreements.<\/li>\n<li>MARFin Web 4.0 platform updated with validated financial information from at least 20 Phase III beneficiary CMPAs.<\/li>\n<li>Individual report for each CMPA summarizing the status of financial information updates in MARFin Web 4.0 \u2014 in Spanish for CMPAs in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, and in English for those in Belize \u2014 including an analysis of revenues, expenditures, financial projections, identified financial gaps, and recommendations.<\/li>\n<li>PowerPoint presentation of the results.<\/li>\n<li>Final report in English and Spanish detailing the overall financial analysis and gaps, including an executive summary of no more than three pages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>V. Payment<\/strong><br \/>\nA \u00a0contract \u00a0for \u00a0professional \u00a0services will \u00a0be \u00a0signed, \u00a0and\u00a0 payment \u00a0will be \u00a0made\u00a0 upon submission and approval of the deliverables.<\/p>\n<p><strong>VI. Supervision and Place of Work<\/strong><br \/>\nThe consultant will report to the Phase III Coordinator and will also coordinate with the other members of the Phase III Project Implementation Unit (PIU).<\/p>\n<p>The consultant will work remotely from their place of residence. If residing in Guatemala\u00a0City, the consultant will be required to attend the office when requested.<\/p>\n<p><strong>VII. Contract Duration and Payment Conditions<\/strong><br \/>\nThe consultancy will have a duration of six months from the date of contract signature. Payments will be made according to an agreed schedule of deliverables approved by MAR\u00a0Fund.<\/p>\n<p><strong>VIII. Qualifications and Competencies<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Knowledge of financial statements and web-based platforms.<\/li>\n<li>Minimum of three years of experience in financial analysis, financial management, financial planning, or project administration.<\/li>\n<li>Experience in conservation or marine protected area management is desirable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>IX. Academic Background<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>University degree.<\/li>\n<li>Advanced knowledge of finance.<\/li>\n<li>Knowledge of financial planning tools.<\/li>\n<li>Experience in financial analysis and reporting.<\/li>\n<li>Knowledge of marine protected areas is desirable.<\/li>\n<li>Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and writing skills.<\/li>\n<li>Fluency in English and Spanish, both oral and written; 100% bilingual.<\/li>\n<li>Experience with Google platforms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>X. Required Documentation<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Methodological proposal, work schedule, and financial proposal\/fees for at least 20 CMPAs.<\/li>\n<li>Curriculum Vitae.<\/li>\n<li>Letter of Intent.<\/li>\n<li>Three professional references, including name, position, and email address.<\/li>\n<li>Signed Commitment Declaration Form (Annex B).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Consultant will be responsible for covering any costs associated with field visits, travel, or transportation required for the collection, validation, or verification of the information necessary to fulfill the deliverables established under this contract.<\/p>\n<p><strong>XI. Deadline and Contact<\/strong><br \/>\nPlease submit all requested documentation no later than <strong>September 20, 2026 <\/strong>to the following email address: <a href=\"mailto:cperez@marfund.org\"><strong>cperez@marfund.org<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>X<\/strong><strong>II<\/strong><strong>. Considerations<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>MAR Fund is an organization committed to equity and diversity in the workplace. Our employment policy \u00a0ensures that \u00a0all \u00a0decisions \u00a0\u2014 \u00a0from \u00a0recruitment \u00a0to\u00a0 professional development \u2014 are based on individual merit and qualifications. We have a zero- tolerance policy toward any form of discrimination or harassment. As an organization dedicated to the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of the marine and coastal ecosystems of the Mesoamerican Reef, we seek to integrate diverse perspectives and encourage participation from candidates from all sectors and social backgrounds to strengthen our mission.<\/li>\n<li>Proponents shall bear all costs associated with the preparation and submission of proposals submitted for evaluation by MAR Fund under this\/these call(s). Accordingly, they acknowledge that MAR Fund has no obligation to cover such costs, either in whole or in part, nor to provide any advance payment or compensation should their proposal(s) not be selected.<\/li>\n<li>Proponents acknowledge and agree that the preparation of the proposal(s) does not constitute a financial obligation on the part of MAR Fund. Therefore, the economic and financial responsibility for preparing the proposal(s) rests exclusively with the proponent(s), regardless of the outcome of the selection process.<\/li>\n<li>The selection process will be conducted in accordance with MAR Fund&#8217;s internal evaluation guidelines, and the resulting decision shall be final and not subject to appeal.<\/li>\n<li>Only proponents who advance to the next stage of the selection process will be contacted. Due to the number of applications, MAR Fund will not provide feedback to applicants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;5px&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;8223&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;8224&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][vc_btn title=&#8221;For more information, please download the Terms of Reference.&#8221; color=&#8221;danger&#8221; i_icon_fontawesome=&#8221;far fa-file-pdf&#8221; add_icon=&#8221;true&#8221; link=&#8221;url:https%3A%2F%2Fmarfund.org%2Fen%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F08%2FTerms-of-reference_Financial-gap-analysis.pdf|target:_blank&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/12&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=&#8221;Consultancy for Zoho-Based Digitalization and Operational Integration&#8221; tab_id=&#8221;1788184130169-ee83fba7-c902&#8243;][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;2\/12&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;391&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;9\/12&#8243;][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]<span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Terms of Reference for<br \/>\nMesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund)<br \/>\n<\/strong><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-size: 16pt;\"><strong>Consultancy for Zoho-Based Digitalization and Operational Integration<\/strong><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p><strong>1. Background<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund) is a regional, private environmental fund supporting protection of the Mesoamerican Reef ecoregion shared by Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. Its mission is to seek, secure and facilitate regional funding, foster partnerships and drive capacity building for conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of marine and coastal ecosystems. The MAR Fund Board comprises founding funds, the Central American Commission on Environment and Development (CCAD), conservation experts from participating countries, and international collaborators.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund is registered in the United States as a tax-exempt charitable organization with a chapter in Guatemala City since August 2014. Over 20 years, it has raised US$46.1 million in project funding, US$14.3 million in sinking funds, and manages an endowment of US$37.6 million as of December 2025. The Fund executes its mission through five programs: Saving our protected areas; Fishing for the future; Climate change; Clean water for the Reef; and Blue and regenerative economy.<\/p>\n<p>MAR Fund is undergoing digital transformation and has selected Zoho software as its preferred solution, with mapping and prioritization of all internal processes completed.<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Objective of the Consultancy<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>To serve as the primary technical lead for the design, configuration, and deployment of a comprehensive Zoho-based digital system for MAR Fund, working under a knowledge transfer model with strategic mentorship from Costa Rica por Siempre (CRxS).<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Scope of Work<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The IT Consultant will be the primary lead for technical execution and digitalization. Key responsibilities include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Analyze and understand MAR Fund procedures<\/li>\n<li>Analyze and optimize current workflows for digital migration<\/li>\n<li>Configure Zoho applications according to functional blueprints<\/li>\n<li>Ensure user-friendly interface and seamless system integration<\/li>\n<li>Support change management and staff training<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The final objective is an integrated ecosystem that enhances efficiency, promotes transparency, and enables data-driven decision-making.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Prioritized processes to be digitalized:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>I. Grantees projects follow up (Project Cycle)<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Reception of proposals (except SGP and special projects)<\/li>\n<li>Link current SGP and Phase III project platforms to Zoho<\/li>\n<li>Grant agreements, grant letter, collaboration or administration agreements elaboration and signature<\/li>\n<li>Project monitoring:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-roman;\">\n<li>Reception of technical, financial and ESMS reports<\/li>\n<li>Review and approval of reports<\/li>\n<li>Interim follow up calls<\/li>\n<li>Field visits (technical, financial and ESMS compliance)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Preparation and approval of requests for disbursements<\/li>\n<li>Modification requests revision and approval<\/li>\n<li>Project closing:\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-roman;\">\n<li>Closing letter<\/li>\n<li>Termination of agreements<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Implementation of projects&#8217; final evaluation<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>II. Follow up of Consultancies:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Contract elaboration and signature<\/li>\n<li>Product revision and approval<\/li>\n<li>Payment requests<\/li>\n<li>Requests for modifications<\/li>\n<li>Closing of consultancies\/cancellation of contracts<\/li>\n<li>Consultants&#8217; database register recommended and not recommended consultants<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>III. Donor budgets implementation:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Link to expenditures from administration platform (Odoo) to show budget implementation per donor<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>IV. Indicator:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Compilation of information from grantee technical reports<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>4. Methodology<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The IT Consultant is expected to follow a participatory, phased approach, collaborating closely with MAR Fund staff and actively participating in advisory sessions with CRxS. CRxS will not be responsible for technical development, system configuration, coding, or integrations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>a) Assessment and Process Understanding<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Conduct in-depth review of MAR Fund internal processes previously mapped and prioritized<\/li>\n<li>Review existing platforms to assess connection to Zoho<\/li>\n<li>Lead working sessions with administrative and technical directors to clarify workflows and identify pain points<\/li>\n<li>Document findings and refine process maps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>b) Strategic Alignment and Mentorship with CRxS<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Work closely with CRxS to align on digital transformation strategy<\/li>\n<li>Participate in coordination meetings to share progress and validate key decisions<\/li>\n<li>Ensure consistency with existing Zoho-based solutions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>c) Zoho Configuration, Development and Integration<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Execute technical setup, configuration, and customization of Zoho applications<\/li>\n<li>Perform technical integration of existing platforms into the new Zoho ecosystem<\/li>\n<li>Conduct iterative testing phases with MAR Fund stakeholders<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>d) Training MAR Fund Key Staff<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Design and deliver tailored training sessions for staff based on their roles<\/li>\n<li>Develop comprehensive user manuals and technical documentation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>5. Deliverables<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>i. Detailed Work Plan and Process Validation:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Document refining previously mapped workflows with timeline for development<\/li>\n<li>General map of institutional processes including functional process diagrams (BPMN or flowcharts), role and responsibility diagrams (Swimlane diagrams), and process lifecycle diagrams<\/li>\n<li>Data model (Entity\u2013Relationship Model) including definition of relationships, cardinalities, data normalization review, and institutional data dictionary<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>ii. Fully Configured Zoho System:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\">\n<li>Development, configuration, and customization of Zoho modules covering all prioritized processes<\/li>\n<li>Functional and technical architecture of the Zoho solution including integration diagram between Zoho, Odoo, and existing platforms; design of standard and customized modules; definition of users, roles, profiles, and permissions; documentation of business rules, validations, dependencies, and design rules; definition of workflows, automations, Blueprints, and approval processes<\/li>\n<li>Data migration strategy and testing plan for ingestion of existing data<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>iii. Testing and QA Log:<\/strong> Documentation of iterative testing phases with MAR Fund stakeholders, including troubleshooting and adjustments based on feedback and CRxS&#8217;s technical validation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>iv. Training and Documentation:<\/strong> Comprehensive user manuals, technical documentation, and tailored training sessions for MAR Fund staff.<\/p>\n<p><strong>6. Supervision and Coordination<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Technical implementation:<\/strong> Responsibility for implementation, day-to-day execution, and technical troubleshooting remains entirely with the IT Consultant. MAR Fund Technical and Administrative directors will follow up the implementation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Technical validation:<\/strong> CRxS will act as a strategic mentor, providing non-binding strategic and functional feedback via periodic &#8220;Quality Assurance&#8221; (QA) sign-offs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Final approval:<\/strong> The Executive Director of MAR Fund will provide final approval for all deliverables based on technical recommendations from both the Technical Director and CRxS.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Logistics &amp; licensing:<\/strong> MAR Fund will provide necessary Zoho platform licenses. The IT Consultant will advise on specific license types and modules needed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>7. Duration<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The consultancy is expected to be completed within six months, with specific deadlines for key deliverables to be agreed upon at the start of the project.<\/p>\n<p><strong>8. Meeting Modality (Mentorship with CRxS)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The IT consultant must commit to attending periodic mentorship sessions. The final schedule will be agreed upon, choosing between:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Option 1:<\/strong> Biweekly meetings of 2 hours (12 sessions total) for strategic follow-up, progress review, and milestone validation<\/li>\n<li><strong>Option 2:<\/strong> Weekly meetings of 1 hour (24 sessions total) for continuous mentorship, follow-up, and functional guidance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Both options represent approximately 24 hours of total estimated mentorship engagement time over 6 months. The final meeting schedule will be agreed upon by both parties at the beginning of the mentorship.<\/p>\n<p><strong>9. Place of Work<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>All work will be virtual.<\/p>\n<p><strong>10. Confidentiality and Copyright<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>10.1 Confidentiality:<\/strong> The IT Consultant commits to carrying out assigned tasks with the highest standards and ethical considerations. MAR Fund reserves the right to instruct the IT Consultant on information requiring confidentiality.<\/p>\n<p><strong>10.2 Copyright:<\/strong> MAR Fund holds the copyright to the products generated through this mentorship.<\/p>\n<p><strong>11. Key Qualifications<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Education:<\/strong> Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, IT, or a related field<\/li>\n<li><strong>Zoho Expertise:<\/strong> Experience designing, configuring, and deploying Zoho applications<\/li>\n<li><strong>System Integration:<\/strong> Experience integrating legacy systems and external platforms (such as Odoo) using APIs<\/li>\n<li><strong>Process Analysis:<\/strong> Strong skills in mapping, optimizing, and digitizing manual workflows<\/li>\n<li><strong>Training &amp; Documentation:<\/strong> Experience developing technical manuals and delivering user training<\/li>\n<li><strong>Collaborative Model:<\/strong> Ability to work under a strategic mentorship and knowledge transfer framework<\/li>\n<li><strong>Language Proficiency:<\/strong> Fully bilingual in English and Spanish with strong written skills<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sector Experience (Preferred):<\/strong> Familiarity with NGO operations, grant management, and project cycles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>12. Documentation Required<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Curriculum Vitae (CV):<\/strong> Detailed resume showing relevant Zoho and IT experience<\/li>\n<li><strong>Technical &amp; Financial Proposal:<\/strong> A clear document outlining the development methodology, timeline, and budget<\/li>\n<li><strong>Professional References:<\/strong> At least three verifiable contacts from similar Zoho or system integration projects<\/li>\n<li><strong>Portfolio (Optional but recommended):<\/strong> Brief examples or case studies of previous Zoho implementations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>13. Application Deadline<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Send your application and documents described in Section 12 to Judith Morales, <a href=\"mailto:jmorales@marfund.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">jmorales@marfund.org<\/a> and Patricia Cabrera, <a href=\"mailto:pcabrera@marfund.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pcabrera@marfund.org<\/a> no later than <strong>September 11, 2026<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;5px&#8221;][vc_btn title=&#8221;For more information, please download the Terms of Reference.&#8221; color=&#8221;violet&#8221; i_icon_fontawesome=&#8221;far fa-file-pdf&#8221; add_icon=&#8221;true&#8221; link=&#8221;url:https%3A%2F%2Fmarfund.org%2Fen%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F08%2FToR-MAR-Fund-digitalization-IT-Consultant-August-07-2026.pdf|target:_blank&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/12&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_tta_section][\/vc_tta_accordion][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=&#8221;385&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_separator][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] CONSIDERATIONS: MAR Fund is an organization committed to equity and diversity in the workplace. Our employment policy ensures that all decisions\u2014from recruitment to professional development\u2014are based on merit and individual qualifications. We have a zero-tolerance policy on any form of discrimination or harassment. As an organization working toward the conservation, restoration, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"template_events_fullwidth.php","meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1992"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1992"}],"version-history":[{"count":286,"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1992\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8231,"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1992\/revisions\/8231"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/marfund.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1992"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}