National Communications Consultant

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

National Communications Consultant

                     (Ref. No. CS- 59)

Lao Statistics Bureau (LSB) is implementing a project titled “Lao PDR Strengthening the National Statistical Project (LAOSTAT II)” from 2023 to 2028. The Government of Lao PDR (GoL) has received a loan from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) to improve the capacity of the Lao PDR NSS to produce and disseminate high-quality statistics in a timely manner, to enhance the use of key statistics, and in case of an Eligible Crisis or Emergency, respond promptly and effectively to it. The project is closely aligned with Vision 2030 and the Strategy of the Development of National Statistical System (SDNSS - 2016 – 2025) which outlines key strategies for sustained development of the Lao Statistical System (LSS). The project focuses on four components, namely (i) Improving the availability and quality of official statistics, (ii) Enhancing the use of statistics in the GoL, (iii) Strengthening institutional capacity and project management, and (iv) Contingent Emergency Response.

The LAOSTAT-II project supports National Communications Consultant to assist LAOSTAT II including the Project Director and Project Manager, in coordinating, communicating, and managing the project activities.

The Lao Statistics Bureau (LSB) is seeking a national consultant to Developing and Executing the Dissemination Plan, Coordinating Publication Schedules, Developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Preparing and Leading the Web Platform Development, Planning and Leading social media and PR Efforts, Stakeholder Communication and implement systems to track the effectiveness of communication strategies.

This assignment is time-based, full-time basis with estimated service duration of 12-months starting from August 2026 to July 2027. The full ToR for the assignment can be sent to candidates upon written request to the e-mail address below.

The LAOSTAT-II Project now invites eligible individual consultants to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultant should provide information (CV, Expression of Interest, other supporting information, if any) demonstrating that s/he has the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. In order to qualify for this position, the candidates shall meet the following experience and competence requirements:

1.  At least a university degree, preferably master’s degree, in communications, PR, journalism, marketing, digital media or a related filed. Equivalent work experience for more than 10 years may be considered in lieu of a degree. At least seven years of experience in working with website building and social media.
2. Prior work experience in Lao PDR - ideally with government agencies and/or international organizations.
3. Demonstrated knowledge and professional experience in project management and development planning.
4. Fluency in written and spoken English and Lao; knowledge of other regional languages is a plus.
5. Excellent coordination, networking, and stakeholder management skills.
6. Advanced proficiency in standard office software packages, including word processing, and presentation software.
7. Proven ability to apply required depth and breadth of knowledge and expertise to meet job demands.
8. Strong planning and prioritization skills to meet the project development objectives and organizational goals.
9. Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing successful communication strategies for complex projects or organizations.
10. Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and maintain high standards of personal and professional integrity.
11. Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and statistical communication is highly desirable.
12. Professional certification in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) is preferred.
13. The attention of interested consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016, revised November 2017 and August 2018 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Competitive Selection of Individual Consultants method set out in the Procurement Regulations.

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by 08 August 2026, 16:00 Lao time (submissions via email are also acceptable). Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Attention:        Ms. Phetsamone Sone, Head of Lao Statistics Bureau

Lao Statistics Bureau, Ministry of Finance

Dongnasok Village, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.

Email:             phousavanh.ch@lsb.gov.la

Cc:                  littana.lsb2023@gmail.com; chilapha77@gmail.com and anida.sayarath@gmail.com