Director, Research, Data and Innovation, WRI Africa at World Resources Institute (WRI)

What you will do:

Ensure quality of WRI-branded knowledge products (50% time)

• Provide feedback to authors on research design and the provision of robust evidence that is fit for key audiences— including policymakers, businesses, multilateral development organizations—and coherent with other research and publications at WRI
• Review WRI Africa publications, as well as other WRI publications relevant to Africa, to determine whether they meet WRI’s research standards and approve them for publication
• Assist research staff in identifying external experts who can provide objective, relevant reviews of drafts

Research Culture & Capacity (25% time)

• Foster a learning culture where constructive criticism and candor are highly valued and staff feel empowered to speak up and discuss failures
• Establish regular engagement with programs to help connect the dots across programs and encourage a culture of cohesion
• Provide support and training to staff on research design, data interpretation, analytical issues, and effective writing
• Participate in hiring of research-focused staff

Coordinate with the Data Lab and Managing for Results functions (25% time)

• Ensure that the links between research and outcomes are understood by all program staff and pursued as an integral part of strategies to drive sustainable outcomes
• Collaborate with the Data Lab and Managing for Results to ensure alignment within WRI Africa
• Help design and build capacity for the Data Lab and Managing for Results functions in WRI Africa
• Provide guidance (dotted line) to existing Data Lab and Managing for Results staff

What you will need:

• Master's degree (Ph.D. preferred) in a discipline related to environment, development, or evaluation, with strong methodological skills in social sciences, natural sciences, or related fields.
• Minimum of 15 years of relevant, full-time experience in conducting research related to environment and/or development and minimum of 5 years of experience managing researchers
• Prior experience of working with international organization and relevant experience working in the Africa continent is essential
• Proven track record of conducting and overseeing research that translates into policy and practice
• Demonstrated knowledge of specific research methods, quantitative or qualitative, and ability to communicate those methods clearly to diverse colleagues. Experience applying valuation methods strongly desired
• Languages: English at professional level; professional knowledge of French strongly preferred.