Research Advisor – Ethiopia Conflict Sensitivity Hub At Rift Valley Institute

Employment type: Full-time, to the end of March 2027, renewable subject to funding
Expected start date: 1st January 2025
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Travel to other regional cities might be required.

JOB BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The Rift Valley Institute (RVI), in collaboration with Mercy Corps, and with funding from the Global Affairs Canada and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) is establishing the Ethiopia Conflict Sensitivity Hub (ESCH). A key purpose of the Hub is to promote conflict-sensitive approaches among humanitarian, peacebuilding, and development actors working in Ethiopia. It aims to prevent conflict that is inadvertently contributed to via the actions of local and international Humanitarian and Development (HDP) actors. Furthermore, the CSH aims to increase the contributions of HDP actors to peacebuilding promoting sustainable peace and development by strengthening the capacity of individuals and organisations. The Hub’s activities revolve around three key pillars: research and analysis, capacity development, and convening.

The CSH is hosted by Mercy Corps with support from a consortium of partners, including the Rift Valley Institute, which is leading the research and analysis pillar. To that end, RVI is recruiting a Research Advisor who be responsible for leading and overseeing the research activities of the Hub including issue-specific research projects and biannual conflict assessments and supervise and line manage the research officers. The Advisor will play a crucial role in engaging with and earning the trust of humanitarian, development, peacebuilding and climate actors who are both the direct targets and beneficiaries of the Hub. The Advisor will facilitate and supervise the research conducted by the Hub’s Research Officers and external consultants. Finally, the Advisor will be responsible for the production and dissemination of the research outputs to support knowledge-based decisions and support the capacity building efforts within the Hub.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Research direction and strategy, supervision, mentorship and professional development (60%)

• The Research Advisor, in collaboration with the Hub Director and RVI team, will provide guidance on research activities of the Hub and develop strategies to achieve the Hub’s research goals.
• The RA will ensure the research undertaken aligns with the Hub’s objectives and priorities
• The RA will supervise and mentor the research officers and provide support and feedback and guidance to help them grow professionally.
• The RA would also facilitate the professional development of the research officers through training and skills development and career advancement guidance.

Programme management, budget and resource management, budget, quality assurance and reporting (40%)

• The RA will oversee research activities conducted by the research officers and hired consultants, including their progress and timeline.
• The RA will also review and provide feedback on the research outputs and ensure that the products have the highest quality standards.
• The RA would also ensure research activities comply with ethical standards.
• The RA will report on status and outcome and challenges of the research projects to the Director
• The RA will manage research budgets.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge and qualification

• Minimum of a Master’s Degree in Political Science, Peace and Conflict/Security Studies, International Relations, Development Studies or another related field.
• Demonstrated experience in research, analysis and capacity building related to conflict analysis, conflict sensitivity and peacebuilding
• Having strong networking experience across the country and with relevant HDP actors
• Strong knowledge and understanding of Ethiopia and donor-led humanitarian, peacebuilding and development initiatives

Experience

• Minimum of five years of work experience in in conducting conflict research or similar initiatives, preferably in Ethiopia or a similar conflict-affected areas context
• Experience working with an NGO an advantage

Skills and abilities

• Strong leadership and team management skills with a proven track record of building and leading diverse teams
• Excellent oral and written communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with ability to work effectively with consortium partners and donors
• Fluency in written and oral communication in English and at least one local language.
• Strong understanding of conflict analysis tools and methodologies
• Cultural sensitivity and experience of working with diverse constituencies.
• Administratively self-sufficient, able to prepare budgets, reports and handle logistics.

BENEFITS

The Research Advisor will receive a competitive salary, a comprehensive pension plan, health insurance coverage and additional benefits including professional development resources.

Note: Applicants should have the right to work in Ethiopia and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.