Policy Lead Full Time

KEY INFORMATION

Job Title: Policy Lead

Sector: International Trade

Position Type: Full time; Short term

Duration/Level of Effort: Up to 6 months

Position Location: In-Person/remote with travel to Zambia, DRC, and Mozambique

The “Facilitating Inclusive, Resilient and Sustainable Trade” (FIRST) project aims to improve economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa that is inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and that empowers women, youth, PWD and/or other vulnerable and marginalized groups by implementing a series of interrelated interventions which support the Ministries of Trade and Commerce, trade-related institutions and MSMEs (particularly women Small Scale Cross Border Traders (SSCBTs) and MSMEs led by women and marginalized groups) in the DRC, Mozambique, and Zambia. FIRST will work with the Ministries of Trade and Commerce and trade-related institutions to ensure an inclusive approach to the development and implementation of trade and investment policies. In parallel, FIRST will improve access to the socioeconomic benefits of environmentally sustainable and inclusive trade and investment by improving the enabling environments at border crossings and strengthening the ability of MSMEs and SSCBTs to adapt and leverage new national/regional trade and investment opportunities. Finally, by improving the knowledge and skills of research institutions to gather, analyze and utilize gender-sensitive and environmentally sustainable trade-related data and evidence, the Project will provide a source of data and evidence to assist policymakers with the development of inclusive trade and investment agreements, while also providing the information needed by women-led MSMEs and SSCBTs to conduct cross-border trade along the Beira Corridor.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Policy Lead to join our team for a short-term assignment lasting until the end of the Project Inception Phase. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in policy analysis, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to provide strategic guidance on policy issues related to FIRST’s objectives. Experience working in Zambia, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will be considered an asset.

• Lead the development and implementation of policy strategies and advocacy campaigns to advance our policy priorities of all 3 beneficiary countries.
• Conduct policy analysis and research on key issues affecting the implementation of the AfCFTA across all 3 target countries, including identifying emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments at the national and regional levels and assess their potential impact on our organization and stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, government officials, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to promote our policy agenda and influence decision-making processes.
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, and other written materials to communicate our the projects approach to policy development and recommendations to relevant stakeholders.
• Represent our organization in meetings, workshops, and conferences with external partners and stakeholders, advocating for policy changes and reforms, especially with Ministries of Trade and Commerce.
• Provide strategic guidance and support to colleagues and partners on policy-related matters, including policy formulation, analysis, and advocacy.

JOB REQUIREMENTS 

• Master’s degree in Economics, Trade, Business, or another relevant field.
• 10+ years’ experience in advising on and implementing programs with a focus on the development and/or implementation of trade and investment policies in Africa.
• Experience advising Ministries of Trade and Commerce in the design and implementation of environmentally-sustainable and gender sensitive trade and investment policies.
• Thorough understanding of the AfCFTA.
• Knowledge of incorporating gender and social inclusion considerations into trade and/or investment policies.
• Understanding of Global Affairs Canada programs desirable.
• Experience of working in Zambia, the DRC and Mozambique would be advantageous.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop evidence-based recommendations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build consensus and mobilize support for policy initiatives.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in French and/or Portuguese considered an asset.
• Willingness to travel within the region, as needed.

Candidates are encouraged to apply by March 13th, 2024.

For your application to be considered, please upload your documents as followed: Candidate Last Name, First Name, date, Title of the Position.

Cowater International is an equal opportunity employer, basing employment on merit and qualifications as they relate to professional experience and position expectations. Cowater does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, age, or any other basis protected by law.

We thank all applicants, however only those shortlisted will be contacted.

Founded in 1985, Cowater International is a leading global development consulting company. Headquartered in Ottawa and with corporate hubs in Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Helsinki, London, Madrid, Manila, Nairobi, Singapore and Stockholm, Cowater International has successfully delivered a portfolio of over 2500 projects and assignments in more than 95 countries. We work with governments, private sector actors and communities implementing projects that support socio-economic development, institutional strengthening, environmental improvements and advance equal opportunities for all. We are a diverse and experienced team committed to building a better tomorrow for the people we serve. Our adaptive approach to management has led to our yearly award-winning work and recognition as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies since 2017.