Objectives of the Assignment The primary objective is to strengthen hiring assurance through high-quality, reliable, and insightful background and reference checks. Specifically, the partner will: Verify candidate information provided during recruitment processes Identify and clearly flag potential risks (reputational, integrity, or compliance-related) Support safeguarding, governance, and donor accountability requirements Enable informed, risk-aware hiring decisions through both data and professional judgement Scope of Work and Deliverables The selected partner will provide end-to-end background and reference check services, including but not limited to: Core Checks Employment history verification Academic and professional qualification verification Identity verification Criminal record checks (where legally permissible) Professional reference checks (including senior-level referencing where required) Enhanced / Executive-Level Checks Politically Exposed Person (PEP) screening Global watchlist and sanctions checks Litigation and court record checks (where accessible) Media and reputational scans (including adverse media) Social media checks (where appropriate and compliant) Contextual & Insight-Based Reporting Identification and escalation of potential risks, inconsistencies, or reputational signals Clear differentiation between: Verified findings Unverified but relevant signals Professional judgement on risk level and relevance Deliverables Comprehensive, structured background check reports per candidate Clear flagging and categorisation of risks (e.g. low / moderate / high) Defined turnaround times (target: 3–5 working days for standard checks; timelines for enhanced checks to be agreed) Periodic summary reports (monthly/quarterly), including: Volume of checks Risk trends Turnaround performance Methodology The partner is expected to adopt a rigorous, ethical, and compliant approach, including: Obtaining and verifying candidate consent prior to checks Use of credible, verifiable, and diverse data sources Strong triangulation of information, especially for senior roles Clear escalation protocols for discrepancies or sensitive findings Secure handling, storage, and transmission of personal data Full compliance with: Local data protection laws International standards (e.g. GDPR-equivalent frameworks) Reporting and Engagement Model The partner will report to the Talent & Capability Management Team (or designate) A dedicated account manager / point of contact is required Regular engagement will include: Operational check-ins Periodic performance reviews Continuous improvement discussions Qualifications and Experience Interested partners should demonstrate: Proven experience delivering multi-country background checks, particularly in Africa Strong understanding of regulatory and data protection environments across regions Experience supporting NGOs, INGOs, or complex multi-country organizations Ability to handle senior and executive-level screening Access to reliable verification networks and databases Capacity to provide insight, not just data Roles and Responsibilities Partner Responsibilities Conduct agreed background and reference checks Ensure accuracy, completeness, and clarity of reporting Flag and escalate risks in a timely manner Maintain strict confidentiality and data security Meet agreed service levels and timelines Living Goods Responsibilities Provide accurate candidate information Ensure candidate consent is obtained Review and act on reports provided Make final hiring decisions go to method of application »