VACANCY: PROGRAM OFFICER, POLICY & RESEARCH

VACANCY: PROGRAM OFFICER, POLICY & RESEARCH

Position: Program Officer, Policy, and Research Department: Programs Reporting to: Programs Manager Direct Reports: Program Interns(s); Program Assistant(s) Contract Duration: 2 years (with potential renewal based on performance) Location: Nairobi

ABOUT TISA – The Institute for Social Accountability

TISA, The Institute for Social Accountability, is a prominent national civil society organization dedicated to advancing sound policy and effective governance in Kenya. As a registered trust since March 2008, TISA actively collaborates with state and non-state entities to enhance local governance in Kenya. With extensive expertise in areas like local government, participatory governance, advocacy strategies, and capacity building, TISA also excels in developing capacity-building tools and curricula.

JOB PURPOSE

The Program Officer, Policy & Research, plays a pivotal role by offering coordination, research, and policy support to TISA’s Programs. This role involves collecting, analyzing data, and advising decision-makers to influence policy development. The Officer leads policy engagements at national and county levels, aligning with strategic areas such as public accountability and inclusive economies. Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, government bodies, and the media is paramount.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Legal & Policy Expertise: Provide expert legal and policy analysis in Public Accountability, Inclusive People’s Economies, and human rights-based social accountability.
2. Research & Advocacy: Lead and support research, analysis, advocacy, and training for diverse policy initiatives.
3. Strategic Monitoring: Monitor national, regional, and international standards and policies, identifying advocacy opportunities and guiding TISA’s advocacy endeavors.
4. Strategic Litigation: Support TISA’s strategic litigation on constitutionalism, devolution, public finance, access to information, and public participation.
5. Reporting & Budgeting: Ensure timely narrative and financial reporting related to policy and litigation work, alongside efficient management of relevant program budgets.
6. Coordination & Implementation: Coordinate program activities, meetings, workshops, and budget management, implementing workplans to achieve TISA’s strategic objectives.
7. Policy Briefs: Collaborate with teams to craft accurate and relevant policy briefs.
8. Stakeholder Relations: Collaborate across teams for evidence-based advocacy and maintain stakeholder relationships.
9. Knowledge Sharing: Participate in meetings and conferences to share policy research insights.

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Law
• Advocate of the High Court of Kenya
• 4+ years in project management
• NGO experience in governance
• Proven policy research and analysis experience
• Strong research, analytical, and report writing skills
• Effective team collaboration and stakeholder management
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and research software
• Organizational, time management, and communication skills

Personal Attributes/Competencies

• Creativity & Innovation
• Learning & Research Skills
• Results Delivery
• Adaptability to Change

EXPERT Tips To Be A Successful Applicant

To stand out in your application, ensure you clearly showcase your expertise in policy research and advocacy. Highlight your legal and project management skills, demonstrating their relevance to TISA’s mission. Detail your experience in stakeholder collaboration, emphasizing your ability to navigate complex policy environments. Prioritize clarity, conciseness, and accuracy in your application. For maximum impact, tailor your CV and cover letter to align with TISA’s core focus areas. Lastly, convey your commitment to TISA’s objectives and your eagerness to contribute to advancing good governance in Kenya.

TO APPLY

1. Complete the pre-submission questionnaire via this link: TISA Pre-screen Questionnaire
2. Email your cover letter and CV, including three professional referees, to hr@tisa.or.ke
3. Use “Program Officer, Research & Policy” as the subject of your email application

Note: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. TISA prioritizes the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, expecting all staff and partners to share this commitment. Please submit your application in English.