Senior Strategy Consultant – Business Plan Development for Critical Minerals Facility

Department: Strategy

Employment Type: Contract / Temp

Location: Africa

Reporting To: Head of Programmes

Description

Role and Responsibilities

• Executive summary capturing purpose, value proposition and roadmap
• Evidence-based rationale addressing Africa's critical minerals position and existing support gaps

• Clear mission/objectives aligned with African-led, just transition principles
• Differentiated technical assistance service offerings (e.g., policy support, beneficiation strategies) and delivery modes (embedded expertise, regional partners)
  
  

• Hosting options and advisory structures (Steering Committee composition/roles)
• Ecosystem mapping (governments, RECs, DFIs) and South-South cooperation frameworks

• Phased implementation plan with staffing/scaling requirements
• Sustainable funding model (core vs. project financing) with high-level budget estimates for setup and first 2–3 years of operations and a mapping of potential funding options

Requirements

• Deliver an initial draft CMSF business plan (maximum 20 pages) by the end of Week 3, that incorporates ACF-provided research, independent research and gap analysis, while presenting clear  strategic options for governance, funding, and scaling.
• Final CMSF business plan incorporating feedback by end of Week 4.
• Summary slide deck for internal and external use

• Minimum 10 years of senior-level experience in institutional strategy, programme design, or business planning, with a focus on international development, climate action, or extractive industries in the African context.
• Proven track record in designing and operationalising new initiatives, facilities, or institutions, particularly in resource governance, critical minerals, or energy transition programs.
• Deep expertise in Africa’s mineral economy, including knowledge of supply chains, local content policies, beneficiation strategies, and ESG frameworks relevant to mining and energy transition.
• Demonstrated experience in developing business plans, financial models, and operational blueprints for multilateral, government, or philanthropic initiatives.
• Strong understanding of just transition principles, climate-smart mining, and Africa’s role in global critical mineral markets.
• Experience working with African governments, regional bodies, DFIs, and private sector stakeholders in the mining and energy sectors.

• Exceptional research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise complex technical, economic, and policy inputs into actionable strategies.
• Proficiency in financial modelling, including budgeting, cost projections, and funding mechanisms for new institutions.
• Familiarity with donor and philanthropic funding models, including grant-making, blended finance, and public-private partnerships.
• Experience in stakeholder mapping and partnership development, particularly with multilateral organisations, think tanks, and industry associations.
• High-level proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and collaborative tools (e.g., SharePoint, MS Teams)

• Exceptional stakeholder management capabilities, with proven ability to navigate political sensitivities and build consensus among senior leaders.
• Self-directed working style with the ability to drive progress amidst ambiguity and evolving priorities.
• Strong strategic communication skills, including the ability to draft high-impact reports, policy briefs, and presentations for executive audiences.