Job description

About IDinsight

IDinsight is a mission-driven global advisory, data analytics, and research organization that helps global development leaders maximize their social impact. They tailor a wide range of data and evidence tools, including randomized evaluations and machine learning, to help decision-makers design effective programs and rigorously test what works to support communities. They work with governments, multilateral agencies, foundations, and innovative non-profit organizations in Asia and Africa. Their work spans a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, education, health, governance, sanitation, financial inclusion, and other areas.

They amplify social impact by partnering with leaders to develop tailored solutions. Their mission being using data and evidence to help leaders combat poverty worldwide. They have expertise in a variety of rigorous approaches and methodologies, which they tailor to each client depending on their needs and constraints. To achieve a positive social impact, they:

• Support clients’ use of data and evidence for routine and major decision-making.
• Inform funding decisions – toward high-impact initiatives and away from less effective programs or approaches.
• Create and share tools, knowledge, and ideas that expand the use of data and evidence for social good.

IDinsight’s diverse, growing team of 200+ outstanding colleagues operates in nearly two dozen countries around the world. Learn more about their mission and values by visiting their website.  

About the role

The Associate Director/Director will work in collaboration with the Africa Directors and the CEO of IDinsight, and under the supervision of the Regional Director West and North Africa to:

• Ensure the supervision of a portfolio of projects (60%): The Associate Director / Director will develop a global vision and strategy for his portfolio of projects, will be the guarantor of the social impact of the projects and the maintenance of excellent customer relations, and supervise up to six project teams to ensure that projects run smoothly. 
• Develop new projects (30%): The Associate Director will generate and develop his/her own portfolio of projects. The Associate Director / Director will position himself as a thought partner with key players in the sector as well as with IDinsight’s clients (Governments, multilateral partners, foundations, NGOs and social purpose companies) through his/her expertise. S/he will represent IDinsight in external events and local and international conferences.

S/he will assume critical responsibility for driving large pieces of IDinsight’s work and strategy in the West and North Africa Region. The Director will be supported by high-quality research teams, an excellent operations team that ensures a well-functioning organization, and a communications team to help amplify the Director’s voice in policy circles. The Director will be provided with significant autonomy to leverage IDinsight as a platform to drive social impact (in consonance with their mission and strategy), while also being held accountable for the clear goals that they will set for themselves in consultation with the West and North Africa Regional Director and other leaders at IDinsight. 

The position is based in Dakar (Senegal) with frequent travel throughout the West and North Africa sub-region (25-30%), depending on the projects. Some trips may take place in rural and isolated areas

Does this sound like you?

• Engineering degree, Master's or Doctorate in Economics, Statistics, Political Science, Mathematics, Development Engineering, or equivalent degree. 
• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience, which must include experience on the African continent. 
• Substantial experience in the formulation and evaluation of public policies, with work experience within or with governments or public institutions (policy dialogue, technical assistance, ministerial cabinet, consulting firm). Knowledge of major public policy issues in West Africa is an asset.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills are essential.
• Writing skills (Word and PowerPoint) and oral communication skills.
• Strong intellectual curiosity and real passion for development issues, support for the most vulnerable populations, and field work.
• Leadership and management capacity: know how to lead and motivate multicultural teams in a very dynamic environment.
• Ability to plan and implement independently over a wide area of responsibility.
• Excellent interpersonal skills: open-mindedness, team spirit, ability to deal with the unexpected, sense of humor and entrepreneurial attitude.
• A perfect knowledge of French (C2) and fluency in English (C2/C1) is essential. Proficiency in one or more languages of the sub-region is an asset.
• Proficiency in working in a technology-intensive environment (Slack, G-Suit, Microsoft Office, etc.).
• Expertise in one or more of IDinsight's key sectors (e.g. education, agriculture, public health) is an added advantage

Persons of all gender, race, sex, orientation, age, and identity are encouraged to apply. If you have any questions concerning the role, you can write to Gauri Pethe at gauri@shortlist.net. If interested, click on the link to apply.