Project Management Consulting Services

Bid Reference: SXPMO-CS01
Procurement method: Quality And Cost-Based Selection
World Bank project No. : P177450

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

(CONSULTING SERVICES – FIRMS SELECTION)

Country: People's Republic of China

Name of Project: Sustainable Ecosystem Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Project

Loan No.: 9843-CN

Assignment Title: Project Management Consulting Services

Reference No. (as per Procurement Plan): SXPMO-CS01

The Chinese Government has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Sustainable Ecosystem Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Project, and intends to apply part of the proceeds for Project Management Consulting Services .

The consulting services (“the Services”) include Comprehensive Project Implementation Management, Procurement and Contract Management, Financial Management, Environmental and Social Management, Project Capacity Building and Training Management, Project Result Monitoring, Project Technical Support, Establishment of a Technical Committee, Project Report Preparation, Support for World Bank Team Management Activities, etc. Total number of person-months shall not be less than 178 person-months. The implementation of the consulting service is expected to commence on the date of contract signing and continue until May 31, 2031, covering the entire project implementation period. For specific details, please refer to the Terms of Reference (TOR).

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment are attached to this request for expressions of interest.

The Accounting Center of Shanxi Forestry and Grassland Bureau now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. The shortlisting criteria are: Consultants participating in bidding competition should be companies or entities with the qualifications to independently sign contracts. The consultant shall have completed at least 3 consulting service contracts for project implementation management under projects financed by International Financial Institutions within the past five years (2021.1.1-2025.12.31, the project completion date shall prevail). Among these, at least 1 shall have been completed for World Bank-funded projects. Consultants are required to provide supporting documents (scanned copies of contracts and proof of project completion, etc.). The project implementation management consulting team shall be composed of experts with international experience and qualifications, as well as experts with domestic experience. The consultant is required to develop a reasonable personnel input plan and schedule based on the specific needs of the project and their professional judgment, ensuring that the total number of person-months shall not be less than 178 person-months. Key Experts will not be evaluated at the shortlisting stage.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.13, 3.15, and 3.16 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” September 2025 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.

Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications, but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub- consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality Cost Based Selection (QCBS) method set out in the Procurement Regulations.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours (office hours: 9:00-12:00,13:30-18:00).

Expressions of interest must be delivered to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by 14:00 (Beijing Time) of April 7, 2026 .

1. In person, or by mail: 15th Floor, South Building, Jiuling Plaza, No.21, Xisanhuan North Road, Haitian District, Beijing, China


2. Or by e-mail: maohongyan@chinatendering.com.cn.

The Client:

Accounting Center of Shanxi Forestry and Grassland Bureau (Project Management Office of Sustainable Ecosystem Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Project)

Attn: Xiaowen Hu, Engineer

Add: Room 520, 5th Floor, Building A, Lihua Building, No.1 Changfeng West Street, Wanbailin District, Taiyuan City, Shanxi Province

Postal Code: 030000

Tel: +86-351-3126275

E-mail: xmb1630@163.com

The Client’s Agent:

China Capital Tendering Co., Ltd.

Attn: Hongyan Mao, Project Manager

Add: 15th Floor, South Building, Jiuling Plaza, No.21, Xisanhuan North Road, Haitian District, Beijing, China

Postal Code: 100089

Tel: +86-10-67409997

Email: maohongyan@chinatendering.com.cn

Attachment: 

SUSTAINABLE ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION PROJECT

Project Implementation Management Consulting Services

Terms of Reference (TOR)

I. Project Background

The Sustainable Ecosystem Restoration And Biodiversity Conservation Project (hereinafter referred to as the "Project") is proposed to be implemented utilizing loans from the World Bank (International Bank for Reconstruction and Development) (hereinafter referred to as the "World Bank") and domestic counterpart funds. The project will contribute directly to conserving globally significant biodiversity resources in China’s Shanxi province, contributing to halting and reversing global biodiversity loss. Biodiversity provides essential ecosystem services, which are often shared widely across populations, making them difficult to monetize in ways that attract private investment. As a result, without public sector involvement, biodiversity conservation may be underfunded, leading to ecosystem degradation and loss of valuable resources. In addition, it will directly contribute to global climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration from the restoration of ecosystems and habitats. Finally, the project will generate knowledge and experience on the implementation of the GBF which can provide models for replication in other parts of China as well as globally. Knowledge generated under the project will also be disseminated to other countries facing similar challenges, especially in Africa, South and Central Asia, through the China-World Bank Group Global Center for Ecological Systems and Transitions launched in December 2024.

The Project Development Objective is (PDO) to restore priority habitats and enhance in-situ and ex-situ conservation for priority species in targeted areas of Shanxi Province. The project's construction content consists of two components:

Component 1: Investments in Ecosystem Restoration and Species Conservation. The key outputs include: (i) Completion of mixed forest ecosystem planting; (ii) Installation of water points, salt points, and shelter shrubs; (iii) Establishment and operationalization of prey breeding and rewilding facilities; (iv) Protection of key habitats for priority species; (v) Establishment and operationalization of a botanical garden; (vi) Restoration of key wetlands.

Component 2: Strengthening Knowledge and Institutional Capacities for Biodiversity Conservation. The key outputs include: (i) Establishment and operationalization of a data platform for monitoring priority species; (ii) Completion of biodiversity research, surveys, and assessments; (iii) Upgrading of wildlife rescue and disease control facilities; (iv) Establishment and operationalization of visitor centers and education bases; (v) Successful implementation of community outreach activities; (vi) Completion of satisfaction surveys; (vii) Implementation of training and capacity building activities; (viii) Development of technical standards, guidelines, and strategies; (ix) Conducting assessments and certifications according to the Guidelines for OECM and the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas; (x) Successful organization of knowledge sharing and exchange activities.

The Component 1 will focus on ecosystem restoration by rehabilitating targeted priority habitats for umbrella and migratory species and combining in-situ and ex-situ conservation for other priority species. The Component 2 will generate knowledge and strengthen institutional capacities to enhance sustainability of biodiversity conservation outcomes and enable replicability and future scale-up. On-the-ground habitat restoration under Component 1 will be integrated with rigorous M&E, capacity-building, public engagement, and technical assistance under Component 2 to ensure that conservation efforts in Shanxi are effective, sustainable, and scalable. Improved M&E will allow for timely interventions for adaptive management and informing the development of evidence-based technical standards to enable replication; increased public awareness will enhance community support for biodiversity conservation; while strengthened capacities will support local institutions in implementing and sustaining conservation efforts beyond the project lifetime. Together, both Components will contribute to the conservation of threatened and endemic species, the resilience of ecosystems and people, and the overall health of biodiversity, so that project outcomes are effective and sustainable in the long term.

The overall implementation period for the project is from 2025 to May 31, 2031. The total planned investment is US$168 million, of which US$100 million is proposed to be financed by a World Bank loan, with the remaining funds covered by domestic counterpart funds.

II. Consulting Services Objectives

To ensure the smooth implementation of the project and the achievement of the development objectives jointly established by the Shanxi Provincial Government and the World Bank, the Sustainable Ecosystem Restoration And Biodiversity Conservation Project Management Office (hereinafter referred to as the "Provincial PMO") proposes to utilize the World Bank loan to hire Project Implementation Management Consultants (hereinafter referred to as the "Consultants") to provide project management consulting services (hereinafter referred to as the "Consulting Services") throughout the entire project implementation period. The Consultants will provide support to the Provincial PMO and the PIUs in comprehensive project implementation management, knowledge learning and sharing, capacity building, and technical assistance. This support aims to ensure the project's compliance with the legal agreements signed between the Chinese government, the Shanxi Provincial Government, and the World Bank, as well as with the relevant policies, guidelines, and regulations of both the World Bank and China.

Working under the authorization of the Provincial PMO, the Consultants will carry out project implementation and management tasks, closely collaborating with all relevant project stakeholders. Their responsibilities include formulating project implementation plans, driving project execution, and facilitating timely communication and resolution of various issues arising during implementation. They will assist the Provincial PMO and PIUs in strictly adhering to the project's Loan Agreement and Project Agreement, ensuring compliance with their covenants and clauses, alongside relevant Chinese laws, regulations, and standards. The Consultants will assist the Provincial PMO and PIUs in preparing and updating the Annual Work Plan, Fund Utilization Plan, Procurement Plan, and Capacity Building Plan, and will support the PMO and PIUs in carrying out a series of activities according to these plans. They will assist the Provincial PMO and PIUs in carrying out in various tasks such as bidding and procurement, contract management, project mid-term review, and project completion; the Consultants will strictly implement the ESMP, coordinate the monitoring of the implementation of special plans for environment, society, resettlement, gender, labor, and occupational health and safety, and link internal and external monitoring activities; the Consultants will provide technical support and assistance for project design, construction, and operation to ensure high quality. They will conduct thematic training on project management, safeguard policies and technical topics for the Provincial PMO, PIUs, supervisors, and contractors; prepare and submit reports including Project Progress Reports, the Mid-term Adjustment Report, and the Project Completion Report, and assist the PMO in establishing a Technical Committee and conducting its related activities.

III. Scope of Services

The Consultant shall assist the Provincial PMO and the PIUs in carrying out the following tasks:

3.1 Comprehensive Project Implementation Management

Assist in the overall coordination and management of the project, working with all stakeholders to facilitate smooth project implementation in accordance with the project's legal documents, the Project Operation Manual, and relevant domestic regulations.

Assist in formulating and dynamically maintaining the project's overall and annual work plans as well as fund utilization plan, ensuring the orderly sequencing of various activities.

Improve the project organizational and institutional systems, including further clarifying work processes, task decomposition, role responsibilities, and developing relevant detailed implementation rules (e.g., for withdrawal and disbursement, contract variations, etc.), to ensure the efficiency and completeness of the project organizational structure.

Strengthen project communication and coordination. Given the numerous institutions and stakeholders involved in the World Bank-funded project, communication and coordination are challenging, with long paths for information collection, transmission, and analysis. The Consultant team will assist the Provincial PMO in internal and external project communication and coordination, enhancing the communication and coordination mechanisms among participating parties, particularly assisting the Provincial PMO in communication and coordination with the World Bank team.

Assist in carrying out communication and visibility management under the project. Support the Provincial PMO in managing the project information platform, assist in preparing publicity materials, organizing knowledge-sharing activities, implementing project communication and coordination mechanisms, and actively conducting project visibility activities.

Strengthen project schedule management, quality management, and investment control to ensure the project achieves its overall objectives for schedule, quality, and cost.

3.2 Procurement and Contract Management

Assist in promptly updating the Procurement Plan, reviewing the technical sections of bidding documents, and providing review comments on construction drawings, specifications, bills of quantities, equipment parameters, and TOR for consulting services provided by the PIUs; assist in reviewing procurement process documents such as bidding documents prepared by bidding agents and bid evaluation reports from Bid Evaluation Committees; track and promote the implementation progress of the Procurement Plan; assist in responding to queries and various issues raised during the bidding process; assist in reviewing contract documents and in contract negotiations.

Assist in establishing a contract management system to manage all project contracts, supervise the contract implementation process based on contract terms, and provide specific guidance; conduct reviews of contract variations, provide opinions based on relevant domestic regulations and World Bank principles, monitor implementation risks for each contract, and resolve various issues during implementation; guide the completion acceptance of contracts to ensure compliance of the acceptance process and completeness of documentation; provide procurement and contract management training.

3.3 Financial Management

Assist in project financial management to ensure compliance with relevant domestic policies and regulations, as well as World Bank financial management guidelines and requirements, ensuring effective use of World Bank loan and domestic counterpart funds; Assist in timely processing of loan withdrawal and disbursement, guide PIUs to establish independent account sets and manage project funds; Assist in preparing financial reports in accordance with the requirements of the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank, including unaudited interim and annual financial statements; According to the contract and relevant regulations, review and guide the disbursement application and related materials; Assist the Provincial PMO and the PIUs in preparing for the annual audit, and provide rectification suggestions for the problems found during the audit; Assist in resolving issues arising in project financial management and provide technical support for organizing financial archive materials.

3.4 Environmental and Social Management

Assist in the comprehensive management of the project's environmental and social aspects to ensure compliance with relevant domestic regulations and the principles and requirements of the World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESF). Guide the implementation and monitoring of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP), Resettlement Action Plan (RAP), Process Framework, Social Management Plan (SMP), Gender Management Plan (GMP), Labor Management Procedure, EIA, EMP, Biodiversity Management Plan, and Pest Management Plan. Monitor the implementation of relevant procedures/codes of conduct, the GRM, and the incident reporting mechanism. Report on the implementation progress and issues related to these plans in the progress reports. Assist in reviewing monitoring and evaluation reports submitted by external monitoring agencies and provide comments for revision.

3.5 Project Capacity Building and Training Management

Assist in preparing the overall project capacity building and training plan and annual plans. Assist the Provincial PMO and PIUs in analyzing and evaluating the effectiveness of capacity building and training activities, and monitoring the results of the implementation of the capacity building and training plan.

Arrange for team experts to provide training to the PMO and PIUs as per their schedules. Simultaneously, lead the organization of training activities related to project management, World Bank policies, and project construction technical standards. The consultant is expected to provide a total of approximately 730 person-days of training for personnel of the Provincial PMO and PIUs (covering topics such as project management, technical aspects, World Bank policies, etc.). During the implementation phase, the Consultant shall develop detailed plans based on actual needs, submit them to the Provincial PMO for review and approval, and then proceed with implementation.

The provisional sum for training under the contract shall be used to cover expenses directly related to training activities, including meals, venue rental, meals for trainers, training materials, transportation, and other expenses. Trainers will primarily be sourced from within the consultant's team, and their costs will be covered using the expert person-month fees. Training expenses shall comply with the "Shanxi Provincial Government Training Fee Management Measures" and other relevant provincial regulations, and shall be reimbursed based on actual invoices within the prescribed limits.

Upon completion of each training session, the consultant shall provide a summary report for that session. The summary should reflect the overall situation, outcomes, participant feedback, training expenses, participant list, lessons learned, and plans for future training activities.

3.6 Project Result Monitoring

Assist the Provincial PMO in conducting indicator monitoring during project implementation and after completion, based on the DMF outlined in the PAD. Establish a monitoring and reporting system for the DMF indicators, and regularly report to the Provincial PMO and the World Bank on the achievement of DMF indicators, existing issues, as well as opinions and recommendations.

3.7 Project Technical Support

Organize multiple industry experts to form a technical expert group, providing professional opinions and suggestions to the Provincial PMO and PIUs for various project stages. As needed, technical experts will deeply engage in key critical points such as design reviews, site supervision, completion acceptance, operational plan quality, review of research findings, and development of specifications and standards. They will fully utilize their technical expertise to participate in project decision-making and implementation, ensuring high quality in project design, construction, and operation and maintenance management.

3.8 Establishment of a Technical Committee

The Technical Committee will consist of approximately 15 experts at the academician-level and professor-level, covering key technical fields relevant to the project (e.g., biodiversity, NCL, forestry, wetlands, botanical gardens, etc.).

The Technical Committee shall, as required by the Provincial PMO and PIUs, organize meetings at least once a year, responsible for conducting high-level seminars, reviewing overall technical schemes, and conducting site visits (each meeting lasting approximately 3 days, with around 40 participants in discussions/training sessions). The Technical Committee will ensure the incorporation of national and international best practices during project implementation and promote the widespread dissemination and sharing of project knowledge and experiences within Shanxi, across China, and internationally.

Within 3 months of the consultant's mobilization, an agreement shall be reached with the Provincial PMO regarding the composition and activity plan of the Technical Committee. The establishment of the Technical Committee shall be completed within 6 months.

The provisional sum for the Technical Committee under the contract will be used to cover expenses directly related to its establishment and seminar activities. This includes expert fees (covering person-month fees, meals, round-trip transportation), venue rental for seminars, participant-related expenses (meals, accommodation, etc.) and other associated expenses. The expenses for Technical Committee activities shall comply with relevant central and local regulations pertaining to science or technical research activities.

3.9 Project Report Preparation

In accordance with the requirements of the Loan Agreement and Project Agreement, assist the Provincial PMO in preparing and submitting relevant reports required by the World Bank and the PMO. These include the Consulting Services Inception Report, Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), Project Completion Report, Semi-annual and Annual Financial Statements/Reports, Environmental and Social Internal Monitoring Reports, Resettlement Internal Monitoring Reports, etc. Also, assist the PMO in the preparation and submission of the Annual Work Plan.

1. The Consulting Services Inception Report shall include the understanding of the project, the composition and responsibilities of the consultant's experts, an outline of the consulting service tasks and deliverables, a description of the project management approach, and the personnel input plan.


2. The Project Progress Reports shall cover the overall project progress during the reporting period, encompassing contract procurement and management, withdrawal and disbursement, environmental and social management, results indicator monitoring, capacity building and training, along with necessary annexes and appendices, meeting World Bank’s requirements.


3. The Mid-term Adjustment Report shall include a summary of the initial project implementation phase, describe the content and reasons for mid-term adjustments, update the procurement plan, investment estimates, financial and economic analyses, evaluate results indicators, update environmental and social documents, and summarize lessons learned, all in compliance with World Bank’s requirements.


4. The Project Completion Report shall provide a comprehensive summary of the entire project, analyze the actual completion of project activities and the achievement of results indicators, and evaluate the overall project performance, in line with World Bank’s requirements.


5. Consultants shall assist the provincial PMO and PIUs in timely preparing and submitting unaudited semi-annual project financial statements, annual financial statements, and audited annual financial reports to the World Bank.


6. Incorporate the external monitoring reports on environment, society, and resettlement as annexes to the Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report, and Project Completion Report.


7. Assist the PMO in preparing and updating documents such as the Annual Work Plan, Fund Utilization Plan, Procurement Plan, and Capacity Building and Training Plan, as required by the Project Operation Manual.

3.10 Support for World Bank Team Management Activities

In accordance with the requirements of the Provincial PMO, provide translation and assist in handling correspondence with the World Bank and relevant project documents. Assist in preparing for World Bank missions and support the implementation of specific tasks (or actions) required by the World Bank's MOU.

1. Assist the Provincial PMO in communicating with the World Bank on project management matters, implementing relevant requirements and actions, and translating correspondence and materials exchanged between parties.


2. Assist the Provincial PMO in preparing reports and PowerPoint presentations for World Bank supervision missions, and draft itineraries for mission activities.


3. Assist the Provincial PMO in arranging logistics for World Bank missions, participate in the mission activities, and translate the World Bank's MOU.


4. Take minutes during discussions with the World Bank mission, summarize key points, and submit them to the Provincial PMO. Assist the Provincial PMO and PIUs in carrying out the specific tasks (or actions) outlined in the MOU.

IV. Qualifications for Consulting Services Consultants

4.1 General Requirements for Consultants

Consultants participating in bidding competition should be companies or entities with the qualifications to independently sign contracts.

The consultant shall have completed at least 3 consulting service contracts for project implementation management under projects financed by International Financial Institutions within the past five years (2021.1.1-2025.12.31, the project completion date shall prevail). Among these, at least 1 shall have been completed for World Bank-funded projects. Consultants are required to provide supporting documents (scanned copies of contracts and proof of project completion, etc.).

4.2 Consultant Input and Person-Month Allocation

The project implementation management consulting team shall be composed of experts with international experience and qualifications, as well as experts with domestic experience.

The consultant is required to develop a reasonable personnel input plan and schedule based on the specific needs of the project and their professional judgment, ensuring that the total number of person-months shall not be less than 178 person-months.

4.3 Expert Qualification Requirements and Tasks

1) Team Leader / Project Management Expert. This expert shall have at least 15 years of experience in managing the implementation of projects financed by international financial institutions, coupled with sound international exposure and qualifications. They shall have successfully served as the Project Management Team Leader during the implementation phase of at least 5 such projects, at least 2 of which shall be World Bank-funded projects. The expert shall hold a bachelor's degree or higher in project management or engineering, and have good English speaking and writing skills. The Team Leader will lead the entire consultant team in providing comprehensive management assistance to the Provincial PMO and PIUs throughout the project implementation process. Key responsibilities include:

1. Planning and organizing the consultant team to complete the consulting service tasks specified in Section 3.1. Assisting the PMO in developing detailed project implementation schedules, work plans, and implementation approaches for key project activities in accordance with World Bank project management requirements, providing continuous assistance to the Provincial PMO and PIUs in all aspects of project implementation management.


2. Guiding and organizing the consultant team to update project documents as needed based on project implementation progress. This includes the Project Procurement Plan, Operational Manual, as well as Contract Management Manual, Financial Management Manual, etc., ensuring they remain aligned with actual project implementation management needs.


3. Preparing the consultant team's annual work plans, ensuring timely and effective provision of specialized consulting services according to project advancement needs. Summarizing and evaluating the completion status of the previous year's work plan, identifying and assessing project risks, promptly reporting to the Provincial PMO with recommendations and suggestions.


4. Reviewing various reports prepared by the consultant team's experts and assisting the Provincial PMO in submitting World Bank-required reports on time.


5. Guiding and organizing the project consultant team to establish a project management information system. This includes internal procedures for routine data and document archiving, and information management related to procurement, payments, contracts, environmental and social monitoring, results indicator monitoring, and various reports between the Provincial PMO and PIUs.


6. Arranging for the consultant team to provide timely assistance to the Provincial PMO and PIUs during World Bank missions, ensuring the smooth completion of missions. Supporting the Provincial PMO in maintaining communication with the World Bank and overall project management.


7. Providing training related to project implementation management for the Provincial PMO and PIUs.


8. Leading the project management consultant team in assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs with other tasks related to project implementation management.

2) Deputy Team Leader / Project Management Expert. This expert shall have at least 10 years of project management experience, including over 5 years of experience managing projects financed by international financial institutions. They must have consulting experience during the implementation phase of at least 3 IFI-funded projects, including 1 World Bank-funded project, and have served as Team Leader or Deputy Team Leader in at least 2 of these projects. The expert shall hold a bachelor's degree or higher in engineering management, construction supervision, project management, or engineering, and possess domestic project management and construction qualification certificates, and have good English speaking and writing skills. Key responsibilities include:

1. Assisting the Team Leader in completing the consulting service tasks specified in Section 3.1. Supporting the Team Leader in helping the Provincial PMO and PIUs develop detailed project implementation schedules, work plans, and implementation methodologies for key project activities based on the overall implementation plan and World Bank project management requirements, providing continuous assistance to the PMO in all aspects of overall project management.


2. Focusing on managing the overall progress of each project phase (including design, procurement, implementation, etc.), assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in resolving various issues arising during project implementation, and providing expert opinions and recommendations.


3. Assisting the Provincial PMO in reviewing withdrawal and disbursement applications submitted by PIUs, including supporting documents required domestically and by the World Bank, with a focus on verifying the alignment and compliance of withdrawal and disbursement applications with contract provisions and project progress.


4. Assisting the Team Leader in assessing the overall project implementation progress, comprehensively identifying and evaluating various risks during implementation (e.g., scope, schedule, cost, quality), promptly reporting to the Provincial PMO with targeted response recommendations and suggestions.


5. Assisting the Team Leader in preparing and submitting various project reports on time as required by the PMO and the World Bank, together with other experts in the consulting team, focusing on content related to overall project scope, progress, payments, achievement of performance indicators, contract compliance, etc.


6. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in establishing and improving the project quality management system, monitoring the effective execution of quality management processes, and ensuring project outcomes meet established standards and requirements.


7. Assisting the Team Leader in reviewing annual plans and phase plans prepared by PIUs based on the overall project plan. Monitoring the progress of each task at various stages against the plans through data analysis and milestone checks, identifying and coordinating solutions to problems encountered during project advancement.


8. Jointly reviewing contract variation documents with the Contract Management Expert, assessing the impact of variations on project objectives, budget, and schedule from an overall project management perspective, and promptly identifying and reporting issues related to contract variations.


9. Participating in project phase acceptance and final project acceptance activities as required by the Provincial PMO and PIUs, ensuring the acceptance process is standardized and results meet project objectives.


10. The Deputy Team Leader will be responsible for assisting the PMO in communication and visibility activities under the project, assisting to establish communication and coordination mechanisms, developing visibility plans, and coordinating the dissemination of project promotions and outcomes.


11. Providing assistance during World Bank missions, assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs respond to the World Bank's concerns and questions regarding overall project management and implementation progress.


12. Providing training related to project management (schedule, quality, and cost) for the Provincial PMO and PIUs.


13. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in completing other tasks related to overall project management.

3) Procurement and Contract Management Expert. This expert shall hold a bachelor's or higher degree in engineering, management, or a related field, with at least 10 years of relevant experience and professional knowledge in procurement and contract management. They shall be proficient in the policies, regulations, procedures, and requirements of both the World Bank and China regarding procurement and contract management. The expert shall hold senior domestic professional titles or engineering-related qualifications. This expert will serve as the core technical support for project procurement and contract management, providing technical assistance throughout the project lifecycle from procurement planning to contract completion:

1. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in establishing an efficient and feasible procurement and contract management system covering the entire project cycle.


2. Leading the review and updating of the overall project Procurement Plan based on project implementation and adjustments, and assisting the Provincial PMO in preparing and updating the annual Procurement Plan.


3. Guiding the Provincial PMO and PIUs in rationally dividing contract packages and optimizing procurement strategies based on the approved preliminary design.


4. Working closely with the Provincial PMO, PIUs, and bidding agents to establish a procurement progress monitoring system, analyzing potential issues at various procurement stages, and assess and enhance procurement efficiency.


5. Assisting in reviewing the technical sections of bidding documents, including design schemes, technical specifications, bills of quantities, equipment lists and parameters, and TOR for consulting services, providing professional review comments.


6. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in reviewing bidding documents prepared by bidding agents and bid evaluation reports submitted by Bid Evaluation Committees, ensuring their compliance and quality.


7. Assisting in handling queries, complaints, and other issues arising during the procurement process, providing professional solutions and response recommendations.


8. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in reviewing draft contract documents and, as needed, participate deeply in contract negotiations.


9. Guiding and supervising contract implementation to ensure PIUs strictly adhere to contract terms and relevant regulations.


10. Jointly with the Deputy Team Leader/Project Management Expert, reviewing construction documentation, withdrawal and disbursement materials, contract variation requests, project completion acceptance data, etc., to ensure their compliance, completeness, and accuracy.


11. Conducting in-depth analysis of the necessity, reasonableness, and cost-effectiveness of contract variations, conducting field inspections for variation requests, and professionally assess the reasonableness of new composite unit rates.


12. Assisting in resolving disputes and issues arising during contract execution, propose handling recommendations, and be responsible for responding to contract management-related inquiries from relevant government departments and the World Bank.


13. Be responsible for writing the procurement and contract management sections of the Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), Project Completion Report, and other required reports.


14. Providing professional training and capacity building activities for the Provincial PMO, PIUs, and other stakeholders, covering the entire process from procurement planning, bidding document preparation, contract management, to dispute resolution.


15. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in completing the final completion acceptance for all contracts.


16. Completing other related tasks assigned by the Provincial PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

4) Cost Engineering Specialist. This expert should hold a bachelor's or higher degree in engineering cost, engineering management, or a related field. They must possess experience in managing projects financed by international financial institutions, contract management, or cost engineering, with over 10 years of relevant work experience in engineering cost. They should be familiar with domestic regulations and pricing benchmarks for engineering costs and hold a Level 1 Registered Cost Engineer qualification. This specialist will be fully involved in and responsible for the project's investment and cost management:

1. Establish a full-cycle cost control framework based on the requirements of the international financial institution loan project and the project's actual conditions, providing professional technical guidance for project cost control.


2. Assist in resolving various cost-related problems during the bidding process, including the setup of measurement and payment terms, pricing benchmarks, response to market price fluctuations, analysis of abnormal bid prices, etc.


3. Review the bill of quantities to ensure compliance with both domestic and World Bank bidding document requirements. Provide written comments and revision suggestions regarding issues in the list preparation.


4. Review the engineering measurement documents submitted by the construction contractor.


5. For new materials, equipment, construction methods, and sub-projects that arise during project implementation, review the reasonableness of new prices and provide review comments.


6. Assist the Deputy Project Leader and Contract Specialist in reviewing various contract changes and work scope adjustments, analyzing the economic impact of changes from a cost perspective, and proposing cost optimization suggestions.


7. During the project mid-term adjustment phase, be responsible for reviewing the reasonableness of the cost estimates (or budgets) for new project additions from a cost perspective.


8. Assist in conducting training related to project cost and cost management.


9. Review the final account report and final completion settlement report, providing professional review comments.


10. Complete other tasks assigned by the Project Leader.

5) Financial and Economic Expert. This expert shall hold a bachelor's degree in financial management, accounting, or a related field, possess a Certified Public Accountant certificate or equivalent financial management certification, and have over 10 years of experience in project financial management. As a financial management expert, they shall have participated in at least 3 projects financed by international financial institutions, including 2 World Bank-funded projects, and be familiar with World Bank and domestic financial management policies and regulations, financial risk assessment, and the requirements and processes for preparing or auditing financial statements. Key responsibilities include:

1. Assisting the Provincial PMO in updating the project's Financial Management Manual and discussing specific contents with the finance department to ensure compliance with foreign loan project requirements and local financial management regulations.


2. Establishing and improving a sound project financial management system, including workflows for internal controls, accounting and financial reporting, withdrawal application and processing procedures, contract payments, budget preparation, and implementation monitoring.


3. Guiding PIUs in setting up accounting books that meet loan project requirements, instructing them on financial statement preparation, and assisting the Provincial PMO in collecting, consolidating, and organizing financial statements and documents.


4. Assisting in reviewing withdrawal application materials submitted by PIUs.


5. Assisting the PMO and PIUs in preparing for project audits, preparing consolidated financial statements, and assisting in formulating responses to audit findings and corrective action plans.


6. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in managing financial archives and documentation.


7. Be responsible for writing the financial management-related chapters in project progress reports, verifying compliance with financial covenants; assisting the Provincial PMO in responding to World Bank inquiries regarding project withdrawals, expenditures, and other financial management issues.


8. Conducting financial and economic analyses as required by the World Bank for the Mid-term Adjustment Report and Project Completion Report, including financial sustainability analysis to assess the project's overall financial sustainability and debt repayment capacity; preparing the economic evaluation chapter, comparing results with the project appraisal's economic assessment.


9. Providing financial management training as needed during different project implementation stages.


10. Completing other tasks assigned by the Provincial PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

6) Environmental Management Expert. This expert shall hold a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering, environmental science, or other related fields, with at least 10 years of environmental management experience on projects financed by international financial institutions, having participated as an environmental management expert in at least 4 such projects, two of which shall be World Bank-funded. The expert shall be familiar with Chinese environmental policies, regulations, and relevant standards, proficient in the World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework and related safeguard policies and requirements. Fluency in written and spoken Chinese and English is required. Key responsibilities include:

1. Guiding IAs/PIUs in implementing the project's EMP and related annexes, clarifying the main tasks and responsibilities of various stakeholders during project construction and operation phases regarding environmental management, particularly concerning environmental impacts and mitigation measures; confirming the responsible persons and specific workflows and timelines for environmental management implementation by the PMO and IAs/PIUs.


2. Conducting site inspections of construction sites and operational facilities to understand the EMP implementation status, guiding project stakeholders in resolving on-site environmental issues, and supplementing necessary environmental mitigation measures.


3. Conducting field checks to verify the adequacy of the GRM, including the assignment of responsible personnel, timely public disclosure of such mechanisms, and their effective operation. Addressing any issues or inquiries related to GRM.


4. Guiding project stakeholders in conducting environmental public participation and consultation activities according to the project's Stakeholder Engagement Plan and EMP, introducing project environmental management methods and measures, collecting opinions and suggestions from affected people in the project area regarding environmental protection and management measures, and assisting the PMO in responding to related queries.


5. Assisting IAs/PIUs in reviewing Environmental Monitoring/Testing Reports for construction sites and operational facilities submitted by third parties (or external environmental monitoring agencies), discussing identified issues, and providing guidance.


6. Providing training to project stakeholders on the World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (environmental aspects) and the project's EMP, explaining the World Bank's environmental management principles, standards, and requirements, as well as specific project environmental management content, requirements, mitigation measures, and internal environmental monitoring methods, and clarifying the project GRM.


7. Based on the Environmental Monitoring/Testing Reports from construction sites and operational facilities, the External Environmental Monitoring Reports submitted by third parties, and field inspections conducted by environmental management expert, preparing the environmental management section of progress reports (with third-party reports as annex) for submission to the World Bank and the PMO for review. Assisting the PMO in responding to the World Bank's review comments and in revising and finalizing the reports.


8. Collaborating with the consultant team to be responsible for writing the chapter or annex related to environmental management in the Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), and Project Completion Report, as well as an independent environmental monitoring and evaluation report upon project completion.


9. Completing other tasks assigned by the Provincial PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

7) Social, Gender, and Resettlement Expert. This expert shall hold a bachelor's or higher degree in social sciences, anthropology, public policy studies, or a related social science field, with at least 10 years of experience working on social, gender, or resettlement aspects of projects financed by international financial institutions (IFIs), having served as an expert in social development, resettlement, community development, or related fields for at least 4 IFI-funded projects, 2 of which shall be World Bank-funded projects. The expert shall be familiar with Chinese resettlement policies, regulations, and relevant standards, proficient in the requirements of the World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework, and knowledgeable about community development and process frameworks. Fluency in written and spoken Chinese and English is required. Key responsibilities include:

1. Guiding the Provincial PMO and PIUs in establishing and operating an effective social and resettlement management system. This includes clarifying responsibilities, specific workflows, deliverables, and timelines for implementing the Resettlement Management Framework, Resettlement Action Plan, Social Management Plan, Gender Management Plan, Process Framework, and Stakeholder Engagement Plan.


2. Tasks related to the Resettlement Action Plan:
   
   
   
   1. Guiding and supervising the PIUs in systematically carrying out all processes according to the approved Resettlement Action Plan. This includes land acquisition, asset surveys, compensation standard calculations, disbursement of compensation funds, and livelihood restoration support.
   
   
   2. Conducting regular field visits to project land acquisition impact areas to verify the scope of impacts and the implementation status of resettlement measures (e.g., whether compensation is full and timely, whether relocation is proceeding smoothly, whether living standards are restored or improved).
   
   
   3. Assisting in resolving various complex issues and disputes arising during land acquisition, relocation, and resettlement.
   
   
   
   


3. Tasks related to Social and Gender aspects:
   
   
   
   1. Guiding and supervising the PIUs in implementing the Stakeholder Engagement Plan, Social Management Plan, and Gender Management Plan, and providing guidance on any issues encountered.
   
   
   2. Guiding the PIUs in the continuous identification of potential social and gender impacts during project design, construction, and operation phases, and in developing or adjusting corresponding mitigation measures.
   
   
   3. Conducting site inspections of construction sites, operational facilities, and surrounding areas to gain first-hand understanding of the implementation status of the Social Management Plan and Gender Management Plan.
   
   
   
   


4. Guiding and supervising the preparation and signing of Community Agreements for collectively owned land, ensuring they meet World Bank’s requirements and that affected communities are properly identified and compensated.


5. Guiding and supervising the PIUs in their work according to the Process Framework, ensuring communities affected by restricted access to protected areas are properly identified and compensated.


6. Guiding and supervising the operation and effectiveness evaluation of the project GRM, ensuring it is accessible and has designated personnel responsible for its management. Reviewing and analyzing complaints, feedback, and suggestions collected through the GRM and engagement activities, and guiding the PMO in developing and implementing targeted responses and improvement measures.


7. Reviewing and providing guidance on activities carried out by project stakeholders according to the Stakeholder Engagement Plan, such as community meetings, focus group discussions, and information disclosure, ensuring the affected people's rights to information, participation, and supervision.


8. Assisting the PMO in reviewing Social and Resettlement External Monitoring Reports submitted by third parties (or external monitoring agencies) and providing review comments.


9. Collaborating with the consultant team to be responsible for writing the chapters or annexes related to social, gender, and resettlement management in the Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), and Project Completion Report, as well as an independent internal monitoring and evaluation report on project completion resettlement.


10. Providing training on World Bank social, community development, and resettlement policies as needed during different project implementation stages.


11. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

8) Results Monitoring Expert. This expert shall hold a bachelor's degree or higher in project management, performance management, engineering, or a related field, shall have at least five years of experience in performance monitoring or results framework monitoring for international financial organization-funded projects, and shall have undertaken performance monitoring/results framework monitoring tasks in at least two such projects, including at least one World Bank-funded project. The expert shall be familiar with the results frameworks and indicator monitoring methodologies and specific requirements of international financial organizations. Fluency in written and spoken Chinese and English is required. Key responsibilities include:

1. Assisting the PMO in developing an implementation plan for monitoring the project's DMF based on the Project Appraisal Document, and clarifying the definitions of monitoring indicators, the responsible parties for each indicator, and the respective target values with project implementation units.


2. Assisting the PIUs in designating responsible personnel for DMF monitoring and defining specific workflows and timelines. Ensuring that each responsible party understands their tasks and responsibilities, as well as the result indicators corresponding to the project activities they need to complete.


3. In accordance with the DMF monitoring implementation plan, collecting and organizing indicator monitoring data, compare it with baseline data, assessing project implementation performance, guiding project stakeholders in resolving issues encountered during implementation, and providing recommendations to ensure the achievement of target values for project result indicators.


4. Follow up with the Provincial PMO on monitoring and research outcomes from third-party teams, such as beneficiary satisfaction surveys, effectiveness monitoring, and thematic studies, and update relevant indicators in the project's Results Framework accordingly.


5. Providing training to the PMO and PIUs on the World Bank's Results Framework, monitoring indicators, and indicator definitions. Assisting stakeholders in understanding the relationship between project activities and result indicators, explain the responsible units, frequency, and methods for result indicator monitoring, and clarify the importance of achieving target values for overall project performance evaluation.


6. Collaborating with the consulting team to draft the results indicator monitoring and evaluation sections or annexes of the Project Progress Report, Mid-Term Adjustment Report (if applicable), and Project Completion Report, as well as an independent project results indicator monitoring and evaluation report.


7. Completing other tasks assigned by the Provincial PMO, PIUs, or the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

9) Labor and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in occupational health and safety, labor science, human resource management, or a related field. They shall be familiar with Chinese labor regulations, occupational health and safety standards, and possess expertise in the World Bank's Environmental and Social Framework (ESS2). The expert should have participated in at least 2 World Bank or similar international financial institution projects, having been responsible for the labor and OHS management components. Fluency in written and spoken Chinese and English is required. Key responsibilities include:

1. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in implementing the Labor Management Procedure and Occupational Health and Safety Management Plan, ensuring working conditions for all project personnel (including direct project employees and workers under all contract packages) comply with relevant domestic laws and regulations and World Bank’s requirements.


2. Guiding and supervising the implementation of the Labor Management Procedure and Occupational Health and Safety Management Plan, including but not limited to worker recruitment procedures, working conditions (working hours, remuneration), and OHS policies and procedures.


3. Ensuring that requirements related to labor management and occupational health are incorporated into bidding documents.


4. Conducting systematic OHS risk assessments and site inspections at project construction sites, identifying potential risks of injury, illness, and accidents, and proposing specific risk mitigation measures and recommendations.


5. Providing training on labor, occupational health, and safety for project management personnel, contractors, workers, and project-related forest rangers.


6. Assisting in establishing an effective labor grievance mechanism and providing guidance on handling labor-related incidents.


7. Ensuring that the Labor Code of Conduct, as well as the Forest Ranger Work Procedures and Codes of Conduct contained in the Project Operational Manual (POM), are properly applied, and provide relevant training and guidance;


8. Be responsible for writing the chapters or annexes related to labor and occupational health and safety in Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), and Project Completion Report.


9. Completing other related tasks assigned by the Provincial PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

10) Biodiversity Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in forestry, botany, biodiversity, wetlands, or similar fields, with at least 10 years of investigation, research, or project implementation experience related to the ecological environment, forestry vegetation, and wetlands in regions north of the Yangtze River, with demonstrable professional achievements. This expert shall be familiar with and mastery of international biodiversity conservation concepts is essential. Have good English writing and speaking skills. This expert will serve as the core technical specialist and strategic advisor in the field of biodiversity conservation for the project, ensuring coordination among various technical activities and reviewing and ensuring the quality of biodiversity-related project deliverable. Key responsibilities include:

1. Providing strategic guidance on the project's overall technical direction, outcome refinement, and experience dissemination from the perspectives of the World Bank and national biodiversity conservation strategies, ensuring project activities align with biodiversity conservation objectives.


2. As the technical lead within the consultant team, assisting the Team Leader and other technical experts in chairing cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral review meetings, and providing technical guidance and necessary technical training to the Provincial PMO and PIUs.


3. As the technical lead within the consultant team, supporting and assisting the Technical Committee in its work.


4. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in reviewing project designs, biodiversity-related plans, and research outcomes, including adaptive management measures, and providing professional technical guidance to the Team Leader and relevant institutions. Superviseing and ensuring the consistency of technical approaches across the project and its target areas, while adapting to local conditions to achieve the biodiversity conservation project goals.


5. Identifying key technical issues, solving problems, and developing response measures based on field observations, monitoring data, and report conclusions to assist in managing project risks.


6. Guiding the systematic refinement and translation of project technical achievements, assisting the PMO in reviewing relevant technical standards, guidelines, and strategies to ensure output quality and broad applicability.


7. Participating in key project meetings (e.g., World Bank missions, mid-term reviews) as needed, assisting the Team Leader in responding to inquiries from various stakeholders from the overarching perspective of biodiversity conservation, and participating in related management responses.


8. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

11) Animal (NCL) Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in zoology, animal habitat and protected areas, wildlife environmental protection, or similar fields, with at least 10 years of experience in investigation, research, or project implementation related to wild mammals, the ecology of animal habitats or protected areas, or habitat conservation in regions north of the Yangtze River, with demonstrable professional achievements. This expert shall have good English writing and speaking skills. Key responsibilities include:

1. Collaborating closely with the design team to conduct comprehensive technical assessments of project design schemes (e.g., habitat protection, corridor restoration, NCL monitoring), providing professional technical opinions and suggestions for key design elements.


2. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs (Zhongtiao, Yangcheng, Heshun and Wenxi) in reviewing the technical sections of bidding documents submitted by the Client or design institutes, providing written professional comments. This includes technical specifications and bills of quantities for civil works contracts related to wildlife habitats or priority species key habitats, prey breeding and rewilding facilities, wildlife rescue and disease control facilities, etc., as well as equipment lists and parameters for equipment contracts.


3. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs (Zhongtiao) in developing TOR for specific thematic studies and reviewing related research outcomes prepared by others (e.g., on NCL genetic diversity, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, habitat carrying capacity assessment, habitat quality monitoring, population genetic monitoring, prey reintroduction and rewilding), providing professional technical guidance to ensure technical quality.


4. Providing professional opinions and suggestions on new construction content proposed during the project mid-term adjustments, assisting IAs/PIUs in optimizing project components from a technical perspective.


5. Evaluating effectiveness of project construction from a professional standpoint and promptly identifying risks during project implementation.


6. Be responsible for writing the professional technical sections of Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), and Project Completion Report.


7. Providing training to the PMO and PIUs on topics such as habitat restoration and technical standards for rewilding facilities, as required.


8. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

12) Plant Protection Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in botany, horticulture, ecology, forestry, or related fields, with at least 10 years of practical experience or research in plant species in-situ and ex-situ conservation, botanical garden planning and design, plant introduction and acclimatization, plant maintenance management, and plant diversity conservation, supported by relevant publications or participation in significant projects. This expert shall have good English reading, writing, and communication skills for reviewing and translating English literature and engaging in international exchanges and cooperation.

1. Working closely with the design team to professionally assess the overall design scheme for the Yangcheng Taihang Mountain Botanical Garden, focusing on plant configuration, specialized garden design, greenhouse design, and landscape ecology. Provide professional technical advice to ensure designs comply with scientific principles and practical needs.


2. Reviewing the in-situ and ex-situ conservation plans for rare wild plants, and provide professional technical recommendations.


3. Providing solutions and technical guidance for key technical issues in the construction of small-scale conservation facilities and botanical gardens, such as conservation measures for rare wild plants, ex-situ conservation technologies for rare plants, ecological restoration plans, and water-saving irrigation systems.


4. Assisting the Provincial PMO and the Yangcheng County PIU in reviewing the technical sections of botanical garden-related bidding documents, providing written professional comments.


5. Providing professional opinions on mid-term adjustments and changes to the botanical garden construction project, ensuring smooth implementation and achievement of project objectives.


6. Participating in the acceptance inspection of the botanical garden construction project, evaluating project completion and quality, and providing acceptance recommendations.


7. Be responsible for writing the professional technical sections of Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), and Project Completion Report.


8. Assisting in reviewing and revising the botanical garden's operation plan to promote its financial and managerial sustainability.


9. Providing thematic training to the PMO and PIUs on botanical garden technical standards, operation, and management, as required.


10. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

13) Forestry Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in forestry, silviculture, forest ecology, forestry engineering, or related fields, with at least 10 years of practical experience or research in forest resource cultivation and management, planning and design of forestry ecological engineering, forest pest and disease control, and forest tree germplasm resource conservation, supported by relevant publications or participation in significant projects. This expert shall have good English reading, writing, and communication skills for reviewing and translating English literature and engaging in international exchanges and cooperation.

1. Working closely with the design team to conduct professional assessments of the overall forestry project design scheme, focusing on forest type planning, selection of afforestation tree species, and stand structure configuration. Provide professional technical advice to ensure designs meet relevant standards and ecological conservation requirements.


2. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs (Zhongtiao, Yangcheng and Heshun) in reviewing the technical sections of afforestation-related bidding documents submitted by the Client or design institutes, providing written professional comments.


3. Providing professional opinions on mid-term adjustments and changes to the project, ensuring smooth implementation and achievement of objectives.


4. Be responsible for writing the professional technical sections related to forestry in Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), and Project Completion Report.


5. Assisting in reviewing and revising the operation and management plans for project components (e.g., Wanshan Forest Farm) to promote sustainable forest management and long-term effective management.


6. Reviewing thematic research reports, codes, standards, and other research outputs under the project from a professional technical perspective, provide comments and suggestions, and provide professional technical support.


7. Providing thematic training to the PMO and PIUs on forestry restoration technical standards and sustainable management, as required.


8. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

14) Wetland and Avian Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in ecology, environmental science, hydrology and water resources, wetland biology, ornithology, or related fields, with at least 10 years of practical experience or research in wetland ecosystem conservation and restoration, avian habitat management, wetland planning and design, wetland biodiversity maintenance, and wetland resource management, supported by relevant publications or participation in significant projects. This expert shall have good English reading, writing, and communication skills for reviewing and translating English literature and engaging in international exchanges and cooperation.

1. Working closely with the design team to conduct professional assessments of the overall design scheme for wetland projects, providing technical recommendations to ensure alignment with the natural principles of wetland ecosystems and conservation needs.


2. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs (Hejin) in reviewing the technical sections of wetland-related bidding documents submitted by the Client or design institutes, providing written professional comments.


3. Providing professional opinions on mid-term adjustments and changes to wetland construction projects, ensuring they meet wetland ecological protection objectives and technical standards.


4. Participating in the acceptance inspections of wetland construction projects, evaluating the effectiveness of wetland ecological function restoration and biodiversity conservation, and providing acceptance recommendations.


5. Be responsible for writing the technical sections related to wetlands in Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report (if any), and Project Completion Report.


6. Assisting in reviewing and revising wetland operation and management plans to promote the long-term stability and sustainable management of wetland ecosystems.


7. Reviewing thematic research reports, codes, standards, and other research outputs under the project from a professional technical perspective, providing comments and suggestions, and providing professional technical support.


8. Providing thematic training to the PMO and PIUs on wetland restoration technical standards and sustainable management, as required.


9. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

15) Green Building Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in architecture, urban planning, engineering (civil or other relevant fields), or related disciplines, with at least 10 years of relevant experience in sustainable building, architectural design, green building, energy and water-saving equipment, and related technologies. Have a deep understanding of international and Chinese green building policies and best practices. This expert shall have a good level of English proficiency. Having relevant experience in communicating and working with international financial institutions such as the World Bank is a plus point.

1. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs (Zhongtiao SFF, Yangcheng) in understanding and mastering relevant green building standards and international best practices, helping to establish a green building target system that meets the Client’s requirements based on project positioning.


2. Participating in the design review of green building sub-projects, focusing on energy-efficient design, water resource utilization, and building material selection in the design schemes, proposing optimized solutions based on project characteristics.


3. Contributing to the writing of technical specification chapters in bidding documents for green building subproject, providing technical support to the Client.


4. Conducting necessary site inspections during construction to ensure that construction processes, techniques, and materials comply with green building design requirements.


5. Participating in specialized acceptance inspections (e.g., energy efficiency, environmental protection) and the final project acceptance for green building subproject.


6. Assisting the Client in developing green operation plans, establishing effective mechanisms for maintaining energy-saving equipment, water resource management, and green space management to improve energy efficiency during the operation phase and achieve energy savings and emission reductions.


7. Providing training on sustainability and green building topics for staffs of the PMO and the Client.


8. Participating in compiling the Mid-term Adjustment Report and Project Completion Report, summarizing the construction outcomes and highlights of building-related subprojects.


9. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

16) Wildlife Rescue and Disease Control Expert. This expert shall hold a postgraduate or higher degree in veterinary medicine, wildlife medicine, or a related field, with at least 10 years of practical experience in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and disease control. Key responsibilities include:

1. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs (Zhongtiao SFF, Yangcheng, and Hejin) in reviewing project designs, with a focus on providing technical guidance for wildlife rescue facilities, prey breeding facilities, and rewilding and domestication facilities.


2. Reviewing the procurement lists of rescue equipment to ensure the equipment configurations match the target rescue species.


3. Assisting in developing rescue protocols and disease monitoring and control plans, and providing technical support and training for the effective operation of the facilities.


4. Participating in evaluating the effectiveness of wildlife rescue facilities and prey breeding facilities, and summarizing lessons learned, responsible for writing relevant technical chapters in Project Progress Reports and Project Completion Report.


5. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

17) Natural education and publicity experts. This expert shall hold a bachelor's degree or above in natural education, environmental science, botany, media science, or related majors; More than 10 years of experience in natural education, science popularization, or biodiversity education; Familiar with the best practices of international nature education and the requirements of domestic biodiversity science popularization policies, participate in at least 2 ecological conservation projects for nature education or publicity work, be familiar with the operation of nature education facilities, development of publicity materials, and organization of public participation activities; This expert shall have good English writing and speaking skills.

1. Assisting the Provincial PMO and PIUs in reviewing natural education related plans, including architectural design schemes for natural education facilities (science popularization and education centers, research bases, botanical gardens, etc.), facility exhibition content design, operation plans, curriculum system design schemes, public participation activity plans, etc., and provide professional optimization suggestions.


2. Reviewing the bidding documents for contracts related to natural education facilities, exhibition and promotion activities, and provide review opinions from a professional technical perspective.


3. Reviewing natural education related promotional products and research results, propose modification and improvement suggestions, and connect project knowledge dissemination and visualization plans.


4. Providing professional solutions and technical guidance for key and difficult issues in the implementation of natural education.


5. Assisting in carrying out capacity building training in the field of natural education, providing specialized training for Provincial PMO, PIUs, and natural education facility operators (such as natural education program design, science popularization activity organization skills, etc.), and enhancing the professional abilities of relevant personnel.


6. Participating in the acceptance work of natural education related achievements, develop acceptance evaluation indicators, conduct professional evaluations of the operational effectiveness of natural education facilities, curriculum implementation effectiveness, public participation quality, etc., and providing recommendations for improvement.


7. Be responsible for writing professional technical chapters related to natural education in Project Progress Reports, Mid-term Adjustment Report, and Project Completion Report, summarizing the effectiveness and experience of project natural education work.


8. Completing other professional and technical tasks related to natural education assigned by the Provincial PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

18) Capacity Building and Training Expert. This expert shall hold a bachelor's or higher degree in education or engineering, with at least 10 years of experience in project capacity building and training; as an expert in capacity building and training, have participated in at least 2 international financial organization loan projects, including 1 World Bank loan project; be familiar with the specific requirements for capacity building and training in World Bank projects; and this expert shall have good English writing and speaking skills. Key responsibilities include:

1. In line with the project's construction content and pre-designed capacity building and training activities, assisting the PMO in conducting necessary capacity building and training needs assessments for IAs/PIUs and other stakeholders. Developing an overall capacity building and training plan for the project implementation period and provide specific recommendations.


2. Based on project implementation progress, formulating and detailing annual capacity building and training plan under the overall framework; assisting the PMO in organizing domestic training study tours and workshops according to these plans.


3. Assisting the PMO in reviewing reports on capacity building and training activities conducted by IAs/PIUs and other stakeholders to monitor and evaluate their effectiveness, and providing review comments.


4. Organizing and completing the training activities planned under this contract, including thematic training on the project management and technical aspects, as detailed in the annex. This plan will be dynamically adjusted during project implementation based on the needs of the Provincial PMO and PIUs.


5. Assisting the PMO in preparing the completion report for capacity building and training activities, which will form a chapter of the overall Project Completion Report.


6. Completing other tasks assigned by the PMO, PIUs, and the Team Leader/Deputy Team Leader.

19) Project Assistant. This expert shall hold a bachelor's degree in project management, environmental science, or engineering; with at least 5 years of experience in project management or engineering management; candidate with qualifications in engineering management or construction are preferred; This expert shall have good English writing and speaking skills. Key responsibilities include:

1. Serve as personnel seconded from the consulting firm to the PMO, responsible for assisting the PMO in carrying out various day-to-day project management tasks, including but not limited to communication and coordination, preparation of reporting materials, schedule management, email management, document handling, and other related duties.


2. Responsible for necessary English communication with the WB team.


3. Translate correspondence emails between the PMO and the WB, as well as necessary project documents and reports.


4. Assist and cooperate with other consulting team members in conducting field work.


5. Maintain close communication with the PMO and implementing agencies/units, assisting the Team Leader and Deputy Team Leader of the consulting team in collecting information, data, and issues regarding project implementation progress.


6. Cooperate with the PMO, implementing agencies/units, and the consulting team to prepare for and support on-site inspections by World Bank missions.

V. Deliverables and Schedule

The consultant shall prepare various work reports in accordance with the requirements of the PMO and the World Bank and submit reports to the PMO for review. Reports submitted to the World Bank through the PMO shall meet the World Bank's basic requirements regarding content and format. During the project implementation, the consultant is required to submit reports for the following consulting services to the PMO.

VI. Schedule

The implementation of the consulting service is expected to commence on the date of contract signing and continue until May 31, 2031, covering the entire project implementation period.

VII.Facilities or Assistance to be Provided by the PMO

The PMO and the IAs/PIUs will provide the following assistance to the consultant:

1. Designated project liaison personnel and technical or management technical personnel or staff, communicate with the consulting team and relevant experts on project implementation management.


2. Provide free office space with office furniture, air conditioning, and internet access.


3. Relevant project design documents, approval documents, reference materials, reports, and data necessary for the consultant to perform the services.


4. Coordination support required for the consulting experts to conduct field surveys, project missions, data collection, and other related work.