Consultant (International Database Expert)

About WorldFish 

WorldFish is an international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish and other aquatic foods for their livelihoods and nutrition. Our work in countries advances progress on multiple 2030 Sustainable Development Goals through science and innovation, with a vision of healthy people, healthy planet and shared prosperity.  

About the Project   

The project, “Promoting sustainable fisheries management in the Red Sea Large Marine Ecosystem” (RedSeaFish) is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). WorldFish is executing three components of the project while the Regional Commission for Fisheries (RECOFI) is responsible for executing one component. 

The project aims to strengthen regional cooperation and management for sustainable shared fisheries in the Red Sea through strengthening fisheries data and information systems, enhancing collaborative regional fisheries management in the Red Sea, improving national regulatory frameworks and institutional capacity to manage Red Sea fisheries, and improving knowledge and awareness to support sustainable fisheries management. The beneficiary countries include Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Jordan, Sudan and Yemen, while Saudi Arabia will partner and engage in project activities. The project management unit will be based in Cairo, Egypt. 

Purpose & Objectives the Consultancy

Purpose of engaging the consultant is to lead the design, development, and operationalization of integrated fisheries databases and information systems at national and regional levels.

The Consultant will work closely with the Project Management Unit (PMU), national fisheries agencies, and regional partners to ensure that database systems are robust, interoperable, user-friendly, and aligned with the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF).

Scope of Services & Key Activities

The International Database Expert consultant key responsibilities include:

• Assess existing fisheries databases and Fisheries Management Information systems (FMIS) and identify gaps.
• Design and support development of national fisheries databases.
• Lead design of a regional fisheries information system/database.
• Develop data architecture, standards, and data-sharing protocols.
• Ensure interoperability between national and regional systems.
• Advise on digital platforms, cloud solutions, and data tools.
• Establish data governance and quality control procedures.
• Deliver training and technical guidance to fisheries stakeholders.
• Coordinate with PMU, national agencies, and regional partners.

Key Milestones & Delivery Timeline:

• Inception Report outlining methodology, workplan, and timeline.
• Assessment Report of existing fisheries data collection systems and FMIS.
• Database design package (architecture, standards, protocols).
• National FMIS upgrade recommendations and roadmap.
• Regional fisheries database design, including interoperability framework.
• Operational database solutions (configured/prototype systems).
• Training materials and capacity building delivery.
• Data quality and governance framework.
• Final Technical Report consolidating outputs, recommendations, and guidance for implementation and sustainability.

This consultancy might be for you if you have the following skills and qualifications:  

• Advanced degree in Information Systems, Data Science, Computer Science, Fisheries, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of proven experience in Fisheries database and information system development.
• Proven experience in fisheries, environmental, or natural resource data systems is an asset.
• Strong expertise in database design, data integration, and system architecture.
• Experience with cloud-based and web-based systems.
• Familiarity with fisheries data systems / FMIS is desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven experience in capacity building and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent communication and report-writing skills (English).

• Demonstrated experience with GEF and/or FAO is preferred.

Consultancy Duration

The duration of the contract will initially be for a 12-months period with possibility of extension, depending on funding and performance.

Evaluation and Selection

Applications will be evaluated based on the qualifications and experience of the consultant, the quality and feasibility of the proposed approach and work plan, the relevance of previous work examples and the most competitive proposal. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or request additional information before final selection. This opportunity is open for all applicants.

How to Apply

Interested consultant are invited to submit the following materials for consideration no later than 23:59 (MYT) 31 July 2026:

• A brief cover letter outlining relevant experience related to this consultancy requirement.
• A CV highlighting similar past assignments.
• A financial proposal indicating the total cost for the task.

We will begin reviewing applications as soon as they are submitted and may make an offer before the submission deadline.

Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment   

Over 40% of WorldFish staff is women with some 30 nationalities represented and contributing to its dynamic multicultural work environment. WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We aim to also seek balance across other diverse dimensions. 

People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity.

We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply.