The International Development Research Centre (IDRC), a Canadian Crown corporation, supports - financially and through capacity-building - research in developing regions to promote growth and development. The result is innovative, lasting local solutions that bring choice and change to those who need it most.
SENIOR PROGRAM SPECIALIST, STRATEGIC OUTREACH
Think Tank Initiative
CA $90,330 – CA $112,912
Ottawa, Canada
Job Overview
The Think Tank Initiative (TTI) is an innovative program dedicated to strengthening independent policy research institutions or "think tanks" in developing countries, enabling them to better provide sound research that both informs and influences policy. Funding is provided by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the UK Department for International Development, theNetherlands Directorate-General for International Cooperation, and the International Development Research Centre. Total funding for the Initiative’s first phase is CA $115 million. These five organizations comprise the Initiative’s Executive Committee, responsible for key programming decisions and oversight. An eminent International Advisory Group, consisting of experts in the fields of policy research and management, advises the funding organizations and the Initiative’s staff on strategic directions.
The Initiative focuses in four regions: East and West Africa, South Asia, and Latin America, with 52 organizations selected to receive core funding through a highly competitive process. A core objective of the Initiative is to provide a combination of general support funding and access to training and technical support. This support focuses on the three broad areas around which TTI grantees frame their own institutional goals, namely research methods and skills, general organizational development, and policy engagement and communication.
A new position, the Senior Program Specialist, Strategic Outreach will work under the guidance of the Head of the Think Tank Initiative and in collaboration with TTI team members in Canada and developing regions. One of your key responsibilities will be to help strengthen TTI grantee capacity in the areas of policy outreach, public engagement and communication. You will recommend appropriate strategies and modalities of support (e.g. coaching, peer exchange, training). A second key responsibility at the level of the Initiative will be to develop strategies to enhance the awareness and support of the Initiative. You will put together operational plans and communications tools/products to ensure that key messages and lessons learned inform and influence the activities of other think tanks, funding agencies and other development actors. You will also provide support in developing strategic partnership opportunities for a second phase of funding for the Initiative.
Candidate Profile
Education
Education
· Graduate degree in economics, communications/public relations, business, public administration or in an international development related discipline
Experience
· Eight (8) years of progressive international development or policy-related experience which includes:
o developing and implementing outreach, public engagement and communication strategies;
o communicating research results on social and economic policy issues to diverse audiences;
o strategic thinking and project management;
o developing, leveraging and maintaining stakeholder relationships;
o negotiating and consensus building to resolve issues;
o writing, editing and quality control of communication media, tools and products;
o working collaboratively in a diverse and multicultural environment.
· Working in a developing region targeted by the Initiative
· Experience in research or in an independent policy research organization is an asset
Note: Candidates with less experience may be considered for appointment at the level of Senior Program Officer (CA $84,940 - CA $102,337).
Knowledge
· Knowledge of economic and social policy issues in one or more of the regions targeted by the Initiative
· Understanding of outreach, public engagement and communication strategies
· Understanding of policy research methods and approaches, including strategies for effectively communicating research results and linking research to policy
Language
· Bilingual position (English/French) requiring strong communication skills in both languages
· Proficiency in Spanish is an asset
Competencies
· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (orally and in writing)
· Superior strategic thinking and project management skills
· Results oriented with strong planning, negotiating, problem-solving, implementing and monitoring skills
· Proven creativity, initiative and ability to work under pressure
· Ability to establish, manage and monitor stakeholder relationships and provide specialized advice and guidance
· Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and partially virtual team including diverse cultures, expertise and experiences
· Awareness of and sensitivity towards individual, gender and cultural differences
Additional Information
This position requires a willingness to travel internationally, an average of 60 days per year.
If you are interested in a career with a lasting impact, we invite you to join our multidisciplinary team of dedicated and skilled professionals operating in a stimulating and diverse environment. For more information about this opportunity and how to apply, visit www.idrc.ca/careers.
Application Deadline: December 21, 2011
An equal opportunity employer, IDRC encourages applications from qualified women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities.
Senior Program Specialist, Strategic Outreach International Development Research Centre
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