Niger: Resident Policy Advisor 36 views0 applications

Niger: Resident Policy Advisor- Government Accountability and Policy Reform Program
The National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) seeks a French-speaking Resident Policy Advisor to manage a potential governance accountability support program in Niger. The Policy Advisor will support select government institutions such as the National Assembly, ministries and governmental agencies in becoming more responsive to citizens’ priorities, transparent and accountable. The Policy Advisor will also foster exchanges among development practitioners, civil society, parliamentarians and policy makers to share best practices and foster reforms and improved public service delivery. This accompanied position is based in Niamey, Niger, with occasional travel within the country. The hiring of this position is contingent on funding.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee the planning and implementation of program activities under the direction of the Chief of Party, in collaboration with country staff, consultants and experts, and NDI regional and international staff, taking into account a sensitive political environment, partners’ priorities and local needs. Take a lead in work plan development and monitor timely implementation of activities
• Build and maintain relationships with key partners and program beneficiaries such as the National Assembly, government institutions, civil society, other implementers, and the donor community
• Build staff capacity through training, guidance and supervision to develop, implement, monitor and evaluate programs; collect and analyze data; produce accurate and timely documents and reports
• Provide expertise to program beneficiaries, partners and staff in at least three of NDI Niger’s core program areas: good governance, transparency and accountability, organizational capacity building, youth and women’s leadership, legislative processes, and advocacy
• Oversee monitoring of program to determine that programmatic goals are achieved and that financial requirements are adhered toQualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in a field of study related to law, political science, international development, or related field. Additional years of relevant work experience may be substituted for educational requirement
• A minimum of 12-14 years relevant experience working on governance issues with parliaments, the executive branch and civil society, preferably in Francophone West Africa
• Substantial program and financial management experience and management of local staff
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills, as well as demonstrated ability to work effectively with senior political and civic leaders as well as members of the donor and diplomatic community
• Experience working in a fast paced, multicultural work environment, staff motivation and promoting staff development
• Fluent French is required; working knowledge of English is preferred
• Experience with Google Apps (Gmail, Calendar, Google Drive, G+, etc.) strongly desiredComments:

Although rich in uranium and other natural resources, Niger is among the poorest countries in the world with high illiteracy and unemployment rates. Since 2010, the country has again engaged in democratic reforms. The government has vowed to improve infrastructure and citizen’s living conditions. However, many citizens contend that public investments benefit only a small elite and that public services such as health and education are in decline. Corruption and accountability of government institutions remain challenges. Civil society is highly politicized and unable to advocate for citizens’ needs. A deteriorating security situation due to terrorist activity in Niger and in neighboring countries sharing porous borders, contribute to a tense political climate. Disillusioned and disenfranchised, many Nigerien youth are at risk of joining violent extremist movements as a means to find purpose and earn a livelihood.

NDI welcomes and supports a diverse, inclusive work environment. As such, our commitment is to promote equal employment opportunities (EEO) for all applicants seeking employment and NDI employees. NDI makes employment decisions based on organizational needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, personal appearance, military status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, political affiliation, educational status, unemployment status, place of residence or business, source of income, or reproductive health decision making. Additionally, harassment or discrimination based on these characteristics will not be tolerated at NDI. To perform the essential functions of this position, reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities and qualified individuals who have limitations due to pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or medical related condition.

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