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Position Title: Research Coordinator
Location: Nairobi
Country: Kenya
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global non-profit organization founded in 1979, dedicated to alleviating suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. With a mission to empower individuals and communities to overcome the challenges they face, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members who work collaboratively with local partners and communities. The organization focuses on various sectors, including Economic Development, health, education, and Disaster Response, and is recognized for its innovative approaches to humanitarian aid and development.

Job Overview:
The Research Coordinator position is integral to the Cash Consortium of Sudan (CCS), which aims to enhance the impact of cash assistance in Humanitarian Response and recovery efforts. The role involves developing a consortium-level Research & Learning Agenda that informs programming and advocacy objectives. The Research Coordinator will collaborate with CCS partners and stakeholders to Design research methodologies, implement findings, and disseminate knowledge to improve the effectiveness of cash programming. This position requires a strong understanding of the humanitarian landscape, particularly in relation to cash assistance, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders to promote best practices and innovative approaches.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain the CCS Research & Learning Agenda, identifying key themes and topics for research initiatives.
• Lead the design, planning, and implementation of in-house research and learning initiatives, coordinating with CCS partners and third-party consultants.
• Produce practitioner-oriented briefs on key takeaways from CCS program data and research initiatives.
• Facilitate discussions with CCS teams to integrate learnings into Program Design.
• Promote awareness of CCS programming in relevant forums and maintain relationships with global cash actors.
• Develop Strategic Partnerships with local organizations, the private sector, and academic institutions to strengthen research and advocacy initiatives.
• Present research results through events and advocacy products.
• Commit 5% of time to organizational learning activities.
• Support accountability efforts towards beneficiaries and adhere to international standards in humanitarian work.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS or equivalent in international studies, economics, social science/research, or a relevant field; MA/S preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in International Relief and Development Research and learning.
• Strong policy awareness regarding humanitarian aid and development, with a preference for experience in cash, markets, and localization policy agendas.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively across multiple stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.
• Flexibility and creativity in planning and problem-solving.
• Experience working with local authorities and NGOs.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills in English; Arabic skills preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a BA/BS degree or equivalent in fields such as international studies, economics, social science/research, or other relevant disciplines. A Master's degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in humanitarian research and learning.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have 5-7 years of relevant experience in international relief and development, particularly in research and learning roles. Experience in managing research initiatives and working in insecure or conflict-affected environments is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the humanitarian landscape and have a proven track record of engaging with various stakeholders, including local organizations, international NGOs, and government entities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in Arabic is preferred, as it will facilitate communication and collaboration with local partners and stakeholders in Sudan and the surrounding regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and requires up to 40% travel to support consortium programming and operations in Sudan and neighboring countries such as Chad, South Sudan, Egypt, and Ethiopia. The role may involve travel to insecure locations with limited amenities. The organization emphasizes ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and actively seeks to build a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. The organization adheres to strict safeguarding and ethical standards, ensuring a respectful and safe environment for all individuals involved.