Programme Policy Officer (Data and Innovation), SC10 – Nairobi, Kenya

Job Title: Programme Policy Officer (Data and Innovation), SC10 – Nairobi, Kenya

Company: United Nations World Food Programme

Are you passionate about using data and innovation to drive positive change in the world? Are you ready to join a dynamic team working towards a hunger-free world? We are looking for a dedicated Programme Policy Officer to join our team in Nairobi, Kenya, and be part of our mission to achieve Zero Hunger.

About Us

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is the largest humanitarian agency globally, dedicated to ending hunger worldwide. Our mission is to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry and that the most vulnerable, especially women and children, have access to nutritious food.

Background of the Assignment

In Kenya, the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework has prioritized four at-risk groups, including women and girls, children and youth, people living in urban informal settlements, and those in North-Eastern Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa counties, located in the ASALs, face complex socio-economic challenges, including conflicts and security issues, exacerbated by longstanding marginalization.

To address these issues, the UN Kenya and the Office of the Deputy President are implementing a transformative project, “Promoting Peace and Inclusive Development in Borderlands Counties in North-Eastern Kenya.” This project, led by UNDP, WFP, OHCHR, and the Peace and Development Advisor, aims to foster collaboration among national and county governments, civil society, communities, and development partners to promote peace, human security, and sustainable development.

Job Purpose

As a Programme Policy Officer specializing in Data and Innovation, you will work closely with our team to collect, organize, interpret, and summarize data for informed decision-making. Your role will involve providing technical expertise to enhance the quality and impact of data and innovation projects in North-Eastern Kenya.

Key Accountabilities

A. Technical Advice for Data and Innovation Projects

• Provide technical advice to ensure the quality and impact of data and innovation projects.
• Support the development of a digital data platform for consolidating information related to the Humanitarian-Development-Peace nexus in target counties.
• Collaborate with national and county government partners to build their capacity in digital platforms and data analytics.
• Create county-level data dashboards to facilitate data-informed decision-making.
• Test advanced predictive analytics tools for forecasting political violence.
• Establish and strengthen data sharing systems between county governments and civil society.
• Ensure the consideration of societal risks and opportunities associated with digital innovations.

B. Advanced Data Analytics and Visualization

• Develop and maintain digital data platforms for information sharing.
• Collect and manage relevant data to support knowledge management.
• Produce tailored data analysis and visualizations, including geospatial analysis.
• Provide technical advice on the use of digital peacebuilding tools.
• Conduct contextual analyses and situational monitoring based on qualitative and quantitative data.
• Promote effective data use throughout project implementation.
• Conduct surveys to understand the data and innovation landscape in Northeastern Kenya.
• Identify data needs for various project stakeholders, including governments and civil society.
• Contribute to knowledge networks and digital knowledge platforms.
• Translate digital innovations and data analysis into actionable options for early response activities.
• Provide technical support for capacity-building workshops on data and innovation.

Standard Minimum Qualifications

• Education: A master’s degree in Data Science, Information Management, Research, or a related field. A bachelor’s degree with seven years of relevant experience may be considered.
• Experience: Experience in handling qualitative and quantitative data, data analysis and visualization, geospatial data analytics, and knowledge of programming languages.
• Language: Fluency in English and the duty station’s language.

Terms and Conditions

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• WFP is committed to diversity and equal opportunity.
• All employment is based on qualifications and merit.
• Ensure your CV matches your profile; discrepancies may lead to disqualification.

Deadline for Applications

• Apply by 23:59 pm East Africa Time on October 24, 2023.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant

1. Highlight Your Data Skills: Showcase your proficiency in data analysis, visualization, and programming languages in your application. Provide specific examples of projects where you utilized these skills effectively.
2. Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV aligns with the qualifications and experience mentioned in your profile. Make it easy for recruiters to see how your background matches the job requirements.
3. Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Emphasize instances where you’ve applied data-driven insights to solve complex problems. Highlight your ability to work with both qualitative and quantitative data.
4. Show Adaptability: Mention your willingness to quickly learn and adapt to new digital tools and technologies. Provide examples of how you’ve embraced innovation in your previous roles.
5. Highlight Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial. Share experiences where you’ve translated data into actionable insights and communicated them effectively to stakeholders.

By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of becoming a valuable member of our team dedicated to ending hunger worldwide. Join us in our mission to achieve Zero Hunger!