Management Services Contracts (MSC)
Where NZAID wishes to outsource the implementation of an in-country project it will openly tender for a consultant, usually an organisation as opposed to an individual, to undertake
this work as a Management Services Contract (MSC).
The MSC model places responsibility for the management of project implementation with the contractor and the partner country agency. The MSC's role is one of supporting, facilitating, guiding, providing inputs and monitoring on behalf of NZAID. The model promotes partner ownership, achieving more sustainable outcomes, delivering good results efficiently, and flexibility to meet changing and emerging needs.
An MSC contractor usually comprises a team of specialist consultants with a variety of skills and experience. The project manager will exhibit excellent project and financial management skills, including proven ability to deliver on time and within budget, an ability to source and sub-contract specialist and technical expertise, an ability to effectively manage emerging risks and issues, and implement and maintain consistent quality assurance measures throughout the life of the project. A key component is the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with all stakeholders.
The key management principles for MSCs include:
- a focus on results
- clarity of roles and expectations
- shared and secured commitment
- manage difficult decisions effectively
- transparency and consistency
- continuous improvement
- exercise of good judgement
- quality assurance ensuring accountability.