Background:
Creative Associates International is a dynamic, fast-growing global development firm that specializes in education, economic growth, democratic institutions and stabilization. Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has a field presence in more than 25 countries with a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, among others. Since its founding in 1977, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike.
Position Summary:
Creative Associates seeks a Political Economy Analysis (PEA) Advisor for forthcoming donor-funded governance programs in West Africa. The PEA Advisor will implement a "thinking and working politically" approach through political economy analysis. The PEA Advisor will conduct desk and field research that will inform the creation of an operating environment for flexible, context-driven programming approaches.
Reporting & Supervision:
The PEA Advisor reports to the Chief of Party (COP).
Expected Outcomes:
- Understanding of operating context, including institutions, power dynamics, and incentives.
- Implementation of "best-fit" activities, grounded in contextual realities.
- Rapid cycles of learning and adaptation throughout program implementation.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Conduct desk and field research to develop deep understanding of on-the-ground conditions and local political economy dynamics;
- Conduct research to map the landscape of related donor-funded activities;
- Develop analysis of political economy to ground truth programming approaches and refine program's theory of change;
- Create a program learning agenda; and
- Perform other duties as assigned by the COP.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Advanced degree (master's or doctorate) in social sciences, conflict resolution, law, political science, international development, or a related field;
- At least five (5) years of demonstrated experience conducting in-depth political economy assessments or similar analysis in conflict-affected and fragile states with international organizations or research institutions;
- Demonstrated experience with a range of research approaches that support and/or complement political economy analysis, including qualitative and quantitative research, conflict assessment, and/or gender analysis;
- Experience integrating views of different stakeholders at multiple levels to inform policy and programming decisions and activities;
- Expertise in incorporating PEA learning into program design, monitoring, evaluation, indicator development, impact analysis, and collaborative learning;
- Knowledge of analytical tools employed in crisis-affected/fragile contexts; and
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in French and English.
Local and regional candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Position contingent upon donor funding.