• The position requires an exceptional manager to implement the project plan within budget and on deadline. The project manager will lead a team of two senior researchers, two researchers and an administrative officer. The project manager must be comfortable performing various tasks – from managing staff to representing ISS on international panels, interrogating research findings and discussing solutions with government and civil society partners. Expertise in quantitative research methods is highly desirable.
• ISS project managers are independent thinkers driven by the goal of seeing Africa achieve its potential. This is an excellent opportunity for an accomplished project manager seeking to apply their human security and policy analysis expertise to an important initiative in Africa. The successful candidate will report to the Head of the Nairobi office.

Overview of duties

• Supervise and manage the performance of project staff
• Collaborate with researchers and partners to develop a survey on security sector governance
• Oversee survey fieldwork, including surveyors’ recruitment, training and activities
• Work closely with researchers to process and analyse survey data, analyse findings and develop recommendations for policy and programming
• Foster positive relationships with project partners, government agencies and other stakeholders, informing them about project progress and results
• Prepare and submit regular progress reports and the final project report, documenting survey findings and project outcomes
• Monitor project expenses and ensure cost-effectiveness
• Manage donor and internal reporting requirements

Requirements

• Master’s degree or PhD in social sciences, law, humanities or a related field
• A minimum of 9 years of experience in a policy research or policy-making environment, either within an international organisation or government, at a management level
• At least 5 years’ experience in successfully managing complex projects and leading subordinate team members
• In-depth understanding of security sector reform and governance
• Expertise in analysing information and translating research results into practical recommendations
• Experience in designing and managing research, policy advocacy, training and technical assistance programmes
• Experience establishing and nurturing relationships with partners and stakeholders to influence policy and action
• Proficiency in fundraising and donor liaison, including the ability to write proposals and reports
• An understanding of monitoring and evaluation, and expertise in Results Based Management frameworks
• Exceptional verbal and written English communication skills; proficiency in French is an advantage
• Strong leadership skills with excellent interpersonal abilities