Research Coordinator

About the role

Reporting to the Head of Research, this post is based at our International Headquarters in Woking, Surrey.

The Research Coordinator will deliver high quality research on Plan’s focus areas (Gender, Education, Child Protection, Child Participation, ECCD and YEE), in collaboration with research team members, researchers from the 50 Programme Countries, 4 Regional Offices and 20 National Offices, as well as external consultants who may be appointed from time to time.

In consultation with the Head of Research, the Research Coordinator will plan and undertake global research needed in support of the development of guidelines, policy and position papers, programme development and organisational learning; publish in respected journals to inform and improve Plan’s programmes; and use research from across the organisation to increase Plan’s organisational learning and thought leadership in its focus areas both internal and external.

The Research Coordinator will work in a team of four and must work within a shared budget. The role has no line-management authority, but is expected to work effectively with a wide network of researchers, both internal, as well as external and manage commissioned work as directed by the Head of Research. In addition, the Research Coordinator is expected to help guide research interns through the internship programme and to help create and roll out the Global Knowledge Management Strategy.

About you

Knowledge:

• Masters level or equivalent, preferably in development studies or a related subject.
• A good understanding of international development issues, preferable experience of working in international development.
• Understanding and commitment to the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Skills:

• Excellent analytical, conceptual and strategic thinking.
• Solid quantitative and qualitative research skills required statistical skills desirable.
• Excellent writing skills, for both research, as well as communication purposes.
• Articulation and training skills to nurture and support research capacity.
• Ability to deliver tight deadlines.
• Excellent computer skills: proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and working knowledge of Sharepoint, Business Intelligence (Cognos 8), SPSS preferable.
• Good project management skills and being able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Behaviour:

• Excellent interpersonal skills, working with people from different cultures and in different time zones, with integrity and honesty.
• Innovative.
• Highly motivated self-starter with solid research skills and an enthusiastic team player.
• A networker who brings a range of contacts to Plan.
• An understanding and commitment to the aims and values of Plan in order to ensure that Plan delivers greater value to children through research.
• Ability to work within a multi-cultural environment and find creative solutions for successful regional and national knowledge management initiatives to promote learning and information sharing across the organisation
• Constructive flexibility

Languages

Fluent in English; French a/o Spanish an advantage.

Location and Travel

This is an office based role in Plan’s International Headquarters in Woking, with some international travel for meetings, networking and field research.

How to Apply

Please submit a full CV and a comprehensive cover letter setting out your reasons for applying for the post and outlining the qualifications experience knowledge and skills that you feel you can bring to the role to:- recadmin@plan-international.org

The closing date for applications is 5^th February 2012.

Please quote reference number IH106

Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK without restrictions.

Reference and background checks will be carried out in conformity with Plans Child Protection Policy. Plan operates an equal opportunities policy and actively encourages diversity, welcoming applications from all areas of the international community.