Senior Program Specialist – Supporting Inclusive Growth International Development Research Centre (IDRC)

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) supports research in developing regions of the world to promote growth and development. The result is innovative, lasting local solutions that bring choice and change to those who need it most. We are seeking a dynamic professional for a key specialist position in Cairo, Egypt. SENIOR PROGRAM SPECIALIST – Supporting Inclusive Growth CA $90,330 – CA $112,912 Cairo, Egypt Job Overview The goal of the Supporting Inclusive Growth (SIG) Program is to support rigorous and policy-oriented research that generates new insights and options for promoting policies that facilitate inclusive growth. The program focuses on two thematic areas: the enhancement of enterprise development, entrepreneurship and innovation; and the facilitation of growth with decent jobs. Using the IDRC “grants plus" model, the program supports applied research through a combination of modalities including networks, competitive grants, and other (solicited or unsolicited) requests for grants. As the Senior Program Specialist, you will collaborate in developing and managing research activities that support broader Program challenges. Reporting to the Program Leader (based in Ottawa) and the Regional Director (based in Cairo), you will develop, manage and monitor a portfolio of research projects in the Middle Eastern and North African region. You will also interact with experts in the field and represent IDRC in a variety of for a, draw attention to new developments in economic policies and research, and play a key role in the progress of strategic thinking in this area. The job involves developing the current portfolio of research projects in promoting inclusive growth, including labour market issues, institutional frameworks for investment, competition and entrepreneurial activity, and the role of social protection policies. Over the past few years, original research and research capacity have been supported across the region in the fields of entrepreneurship, small firms, market regulation, competition policy, and analysis of the determinants of low productivity and weak competitiveness. Future programming will support the development of new policies, in entrepreneurship, labor markets, the quality of jobs, and social protection. Candidate Profile Education · PhD and a record of research and publication in a relevant discipline such as economics (particularly institutional economics), public finance, or international development OR Master’s degree in a relevant discipline and significant work experience Experience · Eight years related experience in managing, assessing and conducting research and project management, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa which includes: developing and monitoring budgets; establishing and building partnerships with research organizations and other donors; and strengthening research capacity through teaching, mentoring and/or supervising. · Experience initiating and implementing innovative approaches to understand and address complex development challenges · Work experience in a policy research or grant-making organization is an asset Note: Candidates with less experience may be considered for appointment at the level of Senior Program Officer (CA $84,940 - CA $102,337). Language · Bilingual position (French/English) at an intermediate level · Working knowledge of Arabic Knowledge · Knowledge of current debates and research agendas on development economics and on political economy approaches to growth-related issues in developing regions · Knowledge of the research environment and policy-oriented research organizations in Middle East and North Africa Competencies · Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and sensitivity towards individual, gender and cultural differences · Results oriented with strong organizing, problem-solving, negotiating, implementing and monitoring skills · Solid analytical and writingskills · Proven creativity, initiative and ability to work under pressure · Ability to establish, manage and monitor relationships with various stakeholders · Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and partially virtual team including diverse cultures, expertise and experiences Additional Information This position requires a willingness to travel, mainly in the region and internationally, an average of 60 days per year. The ideal start date would be in February/March 2012. In addition to base salary, candidates will receive a monthly cost-of-living adjustment and competitive allowances (e.g. housing, transportation, etc.) and benefits. If you are interested in a career with a lasting impact, we invite you to join our multidisciplinary team of dedicated and skilled professionals operating in a stimulating and diverse environment. For more information about this opportunity and how to apply, visit www.idrc.ca/careers. Application Deadline: November 25, 2011 IDRC encourages applications from qualified women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities.