Terms of Reference
Consultancy: Accounting and Procedures Manual

The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) was established in January 1996 with the passing of the Protected Areas Conservation Trust Act, No. 15 of 1995. As provided for in the Act, the functions of PACT “…shall be to encourage and promote, for the benefit and enjoyment of the present and future generations of the people of Belize, the provision, protection, conservation and enhancement of the natural and cultural resources of Belize”. PACT offers small, medium and large grants to eligible organizations for conservation based projects in or around protected areas. 

PACT is funded primarily from a conservation fee imposed under section 33 of the PACT Act.  The organization also receives twenty percent of cruise ship passenger fees imposed under section 21 of the Act.  These fees are paid by visitors to Belize upon departure. PACT, as a major part of its role, acts as the fiduciary and national implementing entity for various international organizations including the TNC, UNDP, OAK Foundation, MARFUND and SUMMIT Foundation.   

Objectives: Develop a detailed accounting and procedures manual that is consistent with International Financial Reporting Standards, captures best international practices consistent with a public trust, and covers all aspects of financial reporting standards as required by the donor organizations listed above.

Deliverables: 

• Provide an accounting and procedures manual that ensures all the financial transactions of PACT including grant management, international donor fund management, procurement and capital expenditures are recorded and reported in accordance with the relevant accounting conventions and best practices. 
• Provide a framework that ensures strong internal controls consistent with major international donors and philanthropic sources; and conduct an orientation of the PACT accounting team with the accounting and procedures manual.

 
Qualifications: Applicants should have at least 5 years of experience working as a Certified Public Accountant.

Bids should be submitted by March 31st 2011 to:
Associate Director – Finance
Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT)
3 Mango Street Belmopan
kbelisle@pactbelize.org | Re: Accounting and procedures manual

A detailed Terms of Reference is available upon request