Associate Research Manager

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Position Title: Associate Research Manager
Location: Kyiv
Country: Ukraine
Deadline Date: ASAP

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
IMPACT Initiatives is a Geneva-based humanitarian NGO established to enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian, stabilization, and development actions through data-driven approaches, partnerships, and capacity-building programs. With a workforce of over 400 employees, including experts in assessment, data analysis, GIS, and field operations, IMPACT operates in more than 20 countries across regions such as the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. IMPACT collaborates closely with ACTED, a Paris-based NGO, leveraging their operational support to enhance its interventions. The organization emphasizes collaborative initiatives to ensure that research and analysis are actionable and contextually relevant, with the REACH Initiative being its primary focus. Founded in 2010, REACH aims to improve decision-making and planning capacities within the humanitarian community by providing essential information for emergency response, reconstruction, and development efforts. REACH offers three main services: needs and situation assessments, situation analysis using satellite imagery, and the provision of databases and mapping expertise.

Job Overview:
The Associate Research Manager (ARM) position is crucial for overseeing IMPACT's activities in Ukraine, particularly within the Humanitarian Infrastructure and Damage Unit (HIDU). The ARM will manage a team of up to 8 staff members, including Senior Assessment Officers, Assessment Officers, GIS Officers, and Data Officers. The role involves overseeing research cycles from inception to completion, which includes research design, data collection, analysis, and reporting. The ARM will represent IMPACT in various forums, manage external partnerships, and contribute to the strategic development of the HIDU. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on humanitarian efforts in conflict-affected areas, develop leadership skills, and expand professional networks within the humanitarian sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Staff Management: Provide strategic direction to staff, manage recruitment, appraisals, and career progression, oversee daily operations, and maintain regular communication to foster a productive environment.
• Management of Research Cycles: Ensure assessments align with project objectives, coordinate with GIS and Data officers for data collection tools, liaise with field teams for primary data collection, oversee the development of assessment outputs, and document lessons learned after each research cycle.
• External Engagement: Represent REACH/IMPACT in relevant forums, present research findings, coordinate external communication strategies, and manage contractual relationships with service providers.
• Cross-Cutting Functions: Ensure information management according to IMPACT standards, foster collaboration across units, develop new research proposals, and strengthen monitoring and evaluation processes.
• Accountability to Communities: Ensure respectful interactions with communities, keeping them informed about IMPACT's objectives and methodologies.
• Confidentiality and Data Protection: Maintain strict confidentiality on all data collected and prevent unauthorized sharing of information.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess excellent academic qualifications, including a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant discipline. A minimum of 3 years of relevant working experience is required, particularly in conducting and overseeing research in fragile settings. Previous management experience in a humanitarian context is essential, with the ability to manage international teams effectively. Familiarity with the international aid system and coordination mechanisms is necessary, along with excellent communication and drafting skills for effective reporting. Candidates should be self-starters with the ability to work independently and manage multiple research cycles in a complex environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required, and candidates should be able to operate in a cross-cultural work environment with strong interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The position requires a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, which may include social sciences, international relations, public policy, or a related discipline. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding humanitarian issues and research methodologies.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 3 years of relevant experience in research management, particularly in fragile or conflict-affected settings. Experience in a management role within a humanitarian organization is crucial, as is the ability to oversee and coordinate multiple research projects simultaneously. Familiarity with the specific challenges and dynamics of the humanitarian sector, particularly in Ukraine, is highly advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for communication and reporting. Knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian is considered an asset, as it would facilitate interactions with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 12 months, starting as soon as possible. The salary ranges from 2,900 CHF to 3,200 CHF monthly, along with a monthly living allowance of 300 USD. Accommodation and food are provided in a guesthouse, with the possibility of a housing allowance depending on the situation. Additional benefits include enrollment in a Swiss private pension fund, health insurance, life insurance, repatriation assistance, and coverage for flight tickets and visa fees. The role includes a Rest and Recuperation (R&R) allowance after 3 months, annual leave of 36 days, and pre-departure training. IMPACT prioritizes the psychological safety of its staff, offering coverage for psychosocial counseling.