Head, Scientific Research Unit

Sudan’s Policy Advisory Group (SPAG) is an independent, voluntary-based, and non-partisan group of Sudanese experts who provide an essential practitioner perspective on emerging social, political, and development contexts. SPAG offers advice on maximising the contribution of policy advocacy and research in policymaking, toward building a new strategic roadmap for the Republic of Sudan. Sudan Vision 2030 is a policy-based project for a multistage national strategic vision that represents Sudanese people’s aspirations for a better future. The vision aim at creates the needed shift to transform Sudan into a leading country in Africa by the year 2030. From the economy to governance, and the rule of law to repositioning Sudan on the global agenda, Sudan Vision 2030 demonstrated a solid commitment and a national passion for change and development. The Resource Planning and Management Division (RPMD) supports the Project Management Office in the promotion of its strategic planning development agenda. It achieves this by managing a dynamic and harmonized, integrated workforce based on a comprehensive analysis that enhances PMO’s administrative performance. From sourcing to performance management and optimization, RPMD oversees core PMO functions, such as human resources, strategic planning, scientific research, and administrative affairs. Vacancy code: VA/SV-PMO/S0017 Position Title: Head, Scientific Research Unit Department/Unit: Resource Planning & Management Division Duty Station: Worldwide (Remote) Contract type: Voluntary Service (VS) Part-time Duration: 2 Years with a possibility of extension The role Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Manager, Resource Planning & Management Division (RPMD), the Head of Scientific Research Unit will support research and policy development on frontier issues identified by PMO Board. The role will also support advocacy and partnership efforts connecting with networks, institutions, universities, civil society organizations, and think tanks. She/he will work in close collaboration with the PMO team leaders, other partner agencies, national and international research institutes, private sector actors, and civil society organizations, ensuring successful PMO programme implementation. Responsibilities As delegated by the Manager, Resource Planning & Management Division, the Head of Scientific Research will work to perform the following tasks and duties: Contribute substantively to the development of the research agenda and framework, including the development of policy briefs, analytical reports, and research products. Provide inputs to policy research and initiatives to help inform national development strategies, policies, norms, and standards. Ensure cutting-edge knowledge production and dissemination on the policy research front, including through devoting a significant proportion of time to building knowledge, disseminating lessons learned, and networking. Support innovation and incubation in PMO governance areas, including supporting the creation of new tools, approaches, and methodologies to address multifaceted and interlinked governance challenges. Manage research partnerships to develop research products and analysis on frontier governance issues in partnership with research institutes, civil society organizations, and other relevant bodies. Manage and oversee the outputs of the Scientific Research staff. Skills and Experience Experience in results-based research projects and initiatives. Experience in managing teams and promoting their capacity development. Prior experience with international development and/or non-profit organizations, and/or working in a start-up business environment, is desirable. Excellent verbal and written communication, networking, and presentation skills (in English). Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to manage complex tasks and prioritize competing demands in order to meet deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Personal Characteristics The successful candidate will be: Committed to, and enthusiastic about, the mission and vision of Sudan Vision 2030. A strategic thinker who is adept at multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment, able to plan, prioritize, and organize individual and group activities and processes. Outgoing, straightforward, and creative. Able to work independently and take initiative. Results oriented. Team-focused, enjoy working as part of an active group of highly engaged individuals, sharing information readily with co-workers, and listening to and respecting others; able and willing to assist co-workers in the development of their own professional skills in order to ensure the team’s success. A person who presents a high degree of maturity, honesty, trust, sophistication, and integrity and cultivates these qualities in others. Functional Competencies Shares knowledge and experience, and actively works towards continuing personal learning and development in one or more practice areas, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills. Ability to administer and execute administrative processes. Ability to extract, interpret, analyze data, identify and resolve operational problems. Ability to perform work of a confidential nature and handle a large volume of work. Ability to supervise and train support staff. Focuses on results for the client and responds positively to feedback. Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude. Remains calm, in control, even under pressure. Education Advanced degree (or equivalent) in scientific research, policy, economic studies, administration, public relations, international relations, or related field. Language Fluency in spoken and written Arabic and English is essential for this position. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered, and only those candidates that are short-listed for interviews will be notified. The incumbent is responsible for abiding by security policies, administrative instructions, plans, and procedures of the Sudan Vision 2030.