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Political Analyst Consultant, Institute for Peace and Security Studies

Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) http://www.ipss-addis.org/
The IPSS was founded with a vision to become a premier higher learning and research institution on issues of peace and security. The Institute does not only aim to strengthen and improve its knowledge base but also its presence on the African political stage. IPSS‘ objective is to contribute to the already existing dialogue on the continent and capture, share, package, and disseminate applicable knowledge and information using effective communication methods and tools. The Political Analyst will be responsible for realizing IPSS’ role as a regional centre for knowledge and learning, by providing an in-depth insight into political developments on the continent.
  1. Objective of the consultancy
Under the supervision of the APSP Programme Director, the Political Analyst will monitor and assess continent-wide political developments to maintain a high-level and accurate understanding of conflicts, as well as security and development trends.
  1. Tasks and Deliverables
The main tasks will include:
• Familiarise with the IPSS’ strategy and other relevant documents;
• Acquire detailed information of the political situations on the continent;
• Thorough analysis and research of the political, social and economic situation on the continent and preparation of substantial inputs to IPSS’ strategic goals;
• Identify possible cooperation/partnerships for new projects and prepare substantial briefs, active contribution to the overall IPSS Strategic involvement;
• Support the implementation of IPSS strategies in the areas of peace and security;
• Effective application of political and policy analysis tools and
• Monitor achievement of results on political developments continent-wide;
• Regular reports on activities, outputs and outcomes;
• Development of partnerships with the African Union (AU), Regional Economic Communities (RECs)/Regional Mechanisms (RMs), private sector, and civil society in the specific thematic areas based on strategic goals of IPSS;
• Ensures the provision of top quality advisory services and facilitation of knowledge building and management;
• Prepare regular analyses of current developments trends in Africa, in general, and on IPSS programme pillars, in particular, in the form of fact sheets, briefing notes or policy orientations papers or proposals;
• Prepare briefing materials, talking points, policy briefs and other write-ups;
• Assist with presentations and speeches and with reporting and reports publishing;
• Represent IPSS at conferences and meetings;
• Assist the APSP Programme Director in liaising with the AU, RECS/RMs and key security stakeholders;
• Support the management team in other areas, if necessary.
  1. Requirements
• A Master’s Degree (a minimum) in International Relations, Political Sciences or Public law;
• A minimum of six years work experience in relevant fields which included political analysis and/or policy development;
• Excellent communication, presentation and networking skills in English (both spoken and written), French would be an asset;
• Excellent analytical and drafting skills;
• Excellent understanding of Africa’s political and economic environments;
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimum supervision;
• Strong interpersonal and team-working skills;
• Demonstrated ability to adjust plans to rapidly changing circumstances;
• Work under pressure
  1. Other Skills/Abilities
• Demonstrated ability/experience in working in a multicultural environment;
• Strong advocacy skills and preferably experience in influencing decision and policy makers in Africa;
  1. Place of Assignment
    • Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
  2. Time Schedule
    • 1 August 2013 – 31 January 2014
How to apply:
Submit an updated CV and cover letter to application@ipss-addis.org by July 12, 2013. The terms of this limited-time employment are very competitive. Please visit our website www.ipss-addis.org If you have any questions, please e-mail us at application@ipss-addis.org