Differentials & Core Competencies

Differentials & Core Competencies

Differentials & Core Competencies

Introduction

Established in 2008, Emerging Leaders Consulting Services (ELCS) is a dynamic research and management consulting firm, differentiated by experience, business integrity and innovation. ELCS stands as a beacon of excellence in Afghan consulting, embodying a commitment to transformative solutions in research, evaluation, and capacity building. ELCS brings to the forefront a deep understanding of Afghanistan’s cultural nuances, crafting bespoke methodologies finely tuned to the nation’s unique tapestry. ELCS scope of engagement spans across several sectors, namely, public health, education, private sector development, women and gender studies, conflict and humanitarian emergencies and environment. Meanwhile, ELCS specialized services in research and development unit includes, Research and Survey Design, Market and Perception Surveys, Feasibility Studies, Operational Research, Monitoring and Evaluation, Third-Party Monitoring, Environmental and Social Impact Studies.

What sets ELCS apart is our ability to blend operational flexibility, expertise, and strict adherence to contract terms. We excel in connecting domestic and international resources while tailoring project delivery models to suit the specific needs of our clients. Our approach adds value by providing optimal solutions to complex challenges, drawing on our extensive experience and diverse skill set.  ELCS’s team is characterized by creativity, innovation, discipline, a positive attitude, and a track record of professional accomplishments. Since our establishment in 2008, we have collaborated with over 50 international clients, development partners, international organizations, and diplomatic missions, establishing ourselves as a trusted partner in driving meaningful change in Afghanistan and beyond. 

ELCS Differentials

      • Strategic and results oriented
      • Evidence based
      • Marked driven
      • Innovative
      • Client centered
      • Participatory (Inclusivity)
      • Outcome based (Value for money)

ELCS Core Competencies

      • Knowledge of the Afghanistan context including socio-political dynamics of the country
      • Expert knowledge and Competency in design and management of development and humanitarian projects
      • Strategically positioned to serve clients and partners at the national, subnational and regional levels
      • Exceptionally skilled and experienced team
      • Outstanding stakeholder management skills
      • Demonstrated capacity to manage complex projects in conflict and humanitarian settings 

ELCS Team Qualification

ELCS has an established team of development professionals with higher education credentials from institutions in the North America, Europe and Asia. ELCS team members have subject matter knowledge and expertise in a wide range of Afghan research related issues, including TPM, ethnographic research and mapping, GIS data tracking, gender profiling and analysis, target audience analysis (stakeholder analysis), measures of effect modelling, agribusiness, natural resource risk modelling, and behavioural change research. ELCS has a well-established organizational structure and a robust governance mechanism that oversees its operations. The Company follows a two-tiered governance framework that involves the BOD and the Executive Team. The executive team is led by the President and CEO of the Company, while several departments are led by subject matter experts. There are associate level staff that work under different work-streams. Gender mainstreaming is an integral part of ELCS operations. The Company ensures equal representation of women and other marginalized groups in their staffing structure.

Implementation Expertise

ELCS has an established team of development professionals with higher education credentials from institutions in the North America, Europe and Asia. ELCS team members have subject matter knowledge and expertise in a wide range of Afghan research related issues, including TPM, ethnographic research and mapping, GIS data tracking, gender profiling and analysis, target audience analysis (stakeholder analysis), measures of effect modelling, agribusiness, natural resource risk modelling, and behavioural change research. ELCS has a well-established organizational structure and a robust governance mechanism that oversees its operations. The Company follows a two-tiered governance framework that involves the BOD and the Executive Team. The executive team is led by the President and CEO of the Company, while several departments are led by subject matter experts. There are associate level staff that work under different work-streams. Gender mainstreaming is an integral part of ELCS operations. The Company ensures equal representation of women and other marginalized groups in their staffing structure.

ELCS Core Competencies

      • Knowledge of the Afghanistan context including socio-political dynamics of the country
      • Expert knowledge and Competency in design and management of development and humanitarian projects
      • Strategically positioned to serve clients and partners at the national, subnational and regional levels
      • Exceptionally skilled and experienced team
      • Outstanding stakeholder management skills
      • Demonstrated capacity to manage complex projects in conflict and humanitarian settings 

Geographic Presence

In terms of geographic presence, while ELCS is housed in Kabul, the Company has established virtual teams across Afghanistan. Over the years, ELCS has trained and deployed more than 3000 male and female development and humanitarian practitioners in different regions. Capacity wise, the teams include, senior and junior researchers, research coordinators, enumerators, data editors and data quality assurance officers. Through its rich network of locally trained researchers and field monitors, ELCS has been able to reach out to the most marginalized communities living in remote and geographically inaccessible areas of the country. In addition, ELCS knowledge of the local context and cultural competence of its local teams, puts the company in a commanding position to reach out to respondents from different socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds including women and girls living in the most remote, marginalized and conservative communities.

Operational Capabilities

On operation capabilities and integrity, as a learning organization, ELCS continuously seeks to improve their policies and procedures to further strengthen organization’s performance, while integrating technological advances in their operations. The company operations are governed by different policies and strategies including, Financial Management and Accounting, Human Resources, Procurement Policy, Gender, Environmental, Research Ethics, Administration, Security, Communication, Resource Mobilization, Travel and other cross-cutting policies. The Company has been vetted by USAID and other partner organizations. In addition, as part of the Company’s reform efforts, ELCS is moving towards digitalization of their operations including finances, human resources, administration and procurement. The Company has already started online Quick Book Accounting Software for day-to-day management of Company finances and book keeping. It is in the process of launching online platforms for HR, Administration and Procurement.v

ELCS Standby Staff Analysis Dashboard