Policy, Research and Learning Officer at The Emerging Leaders Foundation Africa

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Research and Knowledge Generation

• Identify and design research in response to emerging policy issues, gaps, and opportunities.
• Conduct original research, write Policy Briefs, and respond to partner and media requests for expert opinion on ELF Africa’s thematic areas of interest.
• Guide and oversee the production of quality publications such as Reports, Policy Briefs, Position Papers and Factsheets.
• Stay current with developments in public policy, legislation, best practices, peer activity, and relevant new initiatives in the youth development sector.
• As the research and policy focal point, develop and lead ELF Africa’s research portfolio, including setting the research and knowledge production and management agenda and calendar.
• Design and undertake research responding to organizational and partner needs.
• Supervise and support research consultants and knowledge to deliver quality.
• Lead in developing and implementing internal quality assurance and research protocols
• Ensure the organization keeps sufficient knowledge focus on youth and civic engagement.

Policy Dissemination, Engagement, and Influence

• Develop and implement effective knowledge dissemination strategies.
• Keep a current and diverse database of critical actors in youth discourse and engagement.
• Cultivate meaningful relationships with relevant stakeholders, decision-makers, and thought leaders to advance ELF-Africa’s policy impact strategy.
• Organize and manage strategic policy convenings and vibrant engagement platforms.
• Ensure ELF-Africa’s knowledge, products, and technical expertise find an audience with key stakeholders and decision-makers and translate to policies, laws and best practices.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

• Provide support, advice, and oversight on monitoring, evaluation, and learning at the program level. In collaboration with other program staff, jointly develop and implement an embedded monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning framework across all programs and the institution. Document and communicate impact by leading the organisation in results harvesting.
• Design and provide general oversight over External Evaluations and lead on analysis, interpretation, and action on findings.
• Support staff capacity building in MEL by identifying opportunities for training and professional growth.
• Perform any other tasks as may be assigned from time to time.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

• Relevant undergraduate education in the social sciences, preferably public policy, development, social work, and political science.
• A master’s degree with experience would be an added advantage.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in policy, research, and analysis.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Experience working in Non-profit organisations.
• Experience with the rights-based approach, social justice, adult empowerment, and gender-sensitive approaches.
• Experience in legislative and policy-making processes.
•  Experience in youth development discourse and practice, emerging issues, and opportunities.
• High level of capability in the areas of analytical research and problem-solving skills with Strong skills in collecting, analysing, interpreting, and presenting qualitative and quantitative data.  
• Good understanding of and experience in evidence-based policy advocacy and influencing with attention to detail and an eye for influence and impact opportunities.
• Good communication skills and fluent command of written and spoken English and Kiswahili.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including staff, peer organisations, external partners, and senior government officials.
• Commitment to continuous learning with a positive ‘can-do’ attitude.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, including MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.