Rift Valley Institute (RVI)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Programme strategy, design and oversight (40%)

<ul>
	<li>Overall responsibility for the management and implementation of the SDP programme, including programme design, implementation of activities, management of staff and consultants, and of management of the budget</li>
	<li>Design and lead the development of the SDP’s strategy, with input from RVI and SDP staff, consultants and donors, ensuring this is based on an analysis of the Somali political settlement, the programme’s theory of change and strategic objectives of the donor.</li>
	<li>Develop a workplan, and with support from the Senior Project Manager actively engage in and provide leadership to the implementation of individual activities and the delivery of products.</li>
	<li>Lead and manage the SDP team, ensuring effective team decision-making, communication and collaboration, as well as individual performance, based on clear roles and responsibilities and ways of working</li>
	<li>Oversee the implementation of RVI and SDP policies for effective programme management, with support from the Senior Project Manager, the Compliance and Operations Lead and the RVI Executive Management Team.</li>
	<li>As the budget holder for SDP, support and oversee the work of the SDP Finance, Compliance and Operations Lead, ensuring robust financial management (including budget tracking and value for money), compliance, procurement, and risk management.</li>
	<li>Support and oversee the Platform’s Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Learning requirements, managing the MERL Advisor, ensuring data is collected, analysed, and reported, and promote an adaptive and learning-based approach</li>
	<li>Develop effective partnerships with organisations and individuals that support the delivery of the Platform’s objectives</li>
	<li>Ensure the Platform is aligned with RVI’s core principles and policies and supports the strategic development of the organisation</li>
	<li>Represent RVI and its programmes in public fora in the Somali regions as required.</li>
</ul>

Staff management and team leadership (10%)

<ul>
	<li>Oversee performance management of the SDP team.</li>
	<li>Support and mentor Platform staff in the delivery of their work, through performance management and regular feedback meetings, and support opportunities for personal and professional growth and skills development</li>
	<li>Ensure Platform staff and consultants adhere to organisational codes of conduct and safeguarding policies</li>
	<li>Participate in RVI’s organisational meetings, including Managers and All-Staff meetings, mid-term reviews and annual planning meetings</li>
	<li>Support Platform staff and consultants participate in and contribute to RVI meetings and processes, as appropriate  </li>
</ul>

Donor relations and governance (10%)

<ul>
	<li>Lead RVI and SDP’s communication and engagement with the SSFIII Leadership Team and donors in the SSF’s Joint Donor Committee (JDC), ensuring that the Platform’s donors maintain confidence in the Platform’s approach and management</li>
	<li>Maintain effective working relations with the SSFIII Leadership Team so SDP can deliver high quality programming and products in support of SSF III’s strategic objectives</li>
	<li>Ensure the timely delivery of accurate M&amp;E and financial reports to the donor, working with the MERL Advisor and the Finance and Compliance Lead</li>
	<li>As required, actively participate in SSF meetings, decisions and processes to inform the overall strategic direction of the Fund.</li>
</ul>

Delivery and quality assurance of analysis and dialogues (30%)

<ul>
	<li>Maintain a thorough understanding of political developments in Somalia and their implications for stability to inform the strategic direction of the programme and the delivery of analysis and research, working closely with the Political Advisors and the Senior Project Manager</li>
	<li>Provide guidance and input on SDP’s analytical outputs, and review and approve these and ensure their quality and relevance, and strategic alignment with the objectives and knowledge needs of the SSF and its donors</li>
	<li>Manage and contribute to SDP’s political analysis and discussions and exchanges with the SSF and its donors, and other external actors</li>
	<li>Attend and contribute to high level policy and research dissemination events and processes with Somalis and other stakeholders that align to the SDP programme</li>
	<li>Provide strategic leadership on the design and implementation of activities in support of dialogue among Somali stakeholders, including identifying opportunities, designing projects, managing risks and maintaining strong relations with Somali stakeholders and local partners</li>
	<li>Provide strategic leadership and input into SDP’s analysis and advice</li>
</ul>

Representation and external relations (10%)

<ul>
	<li>Represent SDP with Somali actors, donors and others through bilateral meetings and participation in SDP events</li>
	<li>Maintain and develop strong relationships with other international organisations in Somalia, ensuring coordination and collaboration in order to maximise the impact of the Platform’s activities.</li>
</ul>

The responsibilities of the role may change over time which would require changes to the job description. Any proposed changes will be discussed in advance.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge and Qualifications

<ul>
	<li>A Master’s degree in relevant field (political science, development studies, social science, anthropology)</li>
	<li>In-depth knowledge and understanding of Somali political dynamics (as well as society, culture and economy), and broader Horn of Africa and international dynamics</li>
	<li>Excellent knowledge of concepts related to political settlement, election design, constitutional reform, security architectures, fiscal governance, gender and political participation, and federal political arrangements </li>
	<li>Knowledge and understanding of conflict sensitivity, peacebuilding, mediation, dialogue, negotiation, and civic engagement</li>
	<li>Understanding of the international engagement and policy landscape in Somalia.</li>
</ul>

Somalia Dialogue Platform Team Leader

Under the guidance of the Forums Manager and the Events Officer, the Intern will support the Education Programmes and Forums with administrative, logistical and communication activities. The Intern will assist in the planning, execution and follow-up of courses and forums by undertaking the following tasks.

Course-Specific Responsibilities

<ul>
	<li>Monitor Course applications and payments, including tracking numbers, issuing invoices and indemnity forms, and following up with applicants for payment.</li>
	<li>Produce and circulate a weekly course applicant update, detailing the applicant numbers and status of payments.</li>
	<li>Draft participant advisories and course reading materials in a timely manner enabling the Event Officer to send these to relevant participants.</li>
	<li>In liaison with the Events Officer, respond to applicant inquiries and requests.</li>
	<li>Compile and maintain participant contact sheets.</li>
	<li>Prepare visa letters to teachers and participants, ensuring they are signed by relevant</li>
	<li>RVI Managers and are dispatched in time</li>
</ul>

Forum-Specific Responsibilities

<ul>
	<li>Produce post-event data analysis and minutes for Forums and Course meetings.</li>
	<li>Maintain updated contact information in RVI’s central database.</li>
	<li>Assist in preparing brief updates on Forum events for the website.</li>
	<li>Support pre- and post-event administration and logistics.</li>
	<li>Assist in creating publicity materials for Forums, including videos, photographs and event invitations.</li>
	<li>Courses and Forums Administration &amp; Logistics</li>
	<li>Support the Events Officer and the Education Manager in preparing visa letters, making reservations for flights, arranging airport transfers, ensuring timely completion of travel approval processes for staff, teachers, consultants and participants.</li>
	<li>Maintain up-to-date emergency contact information and key stakeholder details.</li>
	<li>Provide administrative and logistical support before, during, and after courses and forums.</li>
	<li>Assist in drafting contracts and procurement-related paperwork.</li>
	<li>Manage documentation and filing systems for course and forum materials.</li>
	<li>Working with relevant staff in Communications and the Education team, verify the functionality of sound systems, PAs, microphones, cameras, maps, screens, projectors, laptops and necessary cables required for use during Courses and Forums.</li>
</ul>

Marketing &amp; Communications

<ul>
	<li>Contribute to the marketing and promotion of Courses and Forums.</li>
	<li>Assist in the timely production of marketing materials for Courses and Forums.</li>
	<li>Maintain and update the master contact list for effective stakeholder engagement.</li>
	<li>Support the Communications team in producing and disseminating promotional content.</li>
	<li>Finance Support</li>
	<li>Assist in monitoring and tracking expenditures related to Courses and Forums.</li>
	<li>Compile financial documentation to support the Forum Manager and Events Officer in accounting for advances.</li>
</ul>

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge and qualifications

<ul>
	<li>A recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in a social science field seeking to learn in an organizational setting.</li>
	<li>Eager to learn, flexible, adaptive person who is willing to work in a fast paced, dynamic and diverse working environment.</li>
</ul>

Intern – Education Programmes and Forums

Job Purpose

<ul>
	<li>The purpose of the Communications and Public Engagement Officer role is to implement RVI’s communications strategy, supporting the Communications Manager in enhancing RVI’s public profile and outreach. This includes managing and updating website content, coordinating content across social media platforms, maintaining RVI’s digital archives and contact databases, providing foundational IT support to staff, and assisting with graphic design and video production. The officer will also introduce structured media and event readiness processes to ensure RVI staff are equipped for public engagements, facilitating a consistent and impactful representation of RVI’s work.</li>
</ul>

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Digital, Website, and Brand Management (30%)

<ul>
	<li>Digital Presence: Manage and publish content across social media platforms, expanding RVI’s presence on new channels such as Instagram and TikTok. Curate inputs from programme teams, maintain a social media style guide, and ensure brand consistency. Track engagement metrics across digital channels, providing analytics to inform strategy and optimize outreach.</li>
	<li>Website Management: Regularly update the RVI website with news, publications, events, and job postings, working with programme teams to ensure content is timely, accurate and engaging. Collaborate with external developers for enhancements of usability and a strong user experience.</li>
	<li>Brand Consistency: Ensure RVI’s brand identity is consistently represented across digital and print channels. Develop and manage visual materials, including logos, templates, and other branded items, to maintain a cohesive look and feel in all outward-facing communications outputs.</li>
</ul>

Social Media Management (20%)

<ul>
	<li>Strategy Implementation: Work closely with the Communications Manager to implement RVI’s communications strategy, focusing on tailored communication plans for each programme (e.g., Courses, Forums and other RVI existing and new projects).</li>
	<li>Promoting and delivering key messages: Deliver information based on bespoke plans, using data-driven insights to refine messaging, channels, and formats for maximum impact.</li>
	<li>Content Creation: Develop high-quality, engaging multimedia content as outlined in public facing communication plans, including social media posts, videos, blogs, and newsletters, to reach and engage target audiences.</li>
	<li>Support for Fundraising and Visibility: Support, and if necessary, coordinate public engagement plans that showcase RVI’s achievements and reinforce the organisation’s value to potential funders. Prepare and promote materials that highlight impactful outputs and programme success to raise awareness, indirectly supporting RVI’s fundraising goals.</li>
</ul>

Stakeholder Engagement, Media Relations, and Public Affairs (20%)

<ul>
	<li>Media Liaison and Press Readiness: Develop an introductory press kit and basic media protocols; support staff training for media engagement; ensure teams have resources to handle press requests confidently and professionally.</li>
	<li>Stakeholder and Event Engagement: Equip staff attending or hosting events with consistent, branded materials (e.g., brochures, slides) to ensure RVI’s public events and outreach initiatives promote the organisation’s work strategically.</li>
	<li>Organisational values and reputation: Ensure all public-facing materials uphold RVI’s values, principles and standards. Support EMT with media activities in situations where RVI’s reputation is at risk due to negative publicity including by developing communication protocols to guide timely and effective responses in critical situations.</li>
</ul>

Knowledge Management and IT Support (20%)

<ul>
	<li>File Storage and Database Management: Oversee RVI’s file storage protocols on Dropbox and contact database on Daylite or similar software; ensure compliance with organisational standards, providing training and support to staff as needed.</li>
	<li>Digital Archives: Maintain and update RVI’s digital archives, ensuring accurate, accessible records of publications and multimedia outputs for monitoring and evaluation.</li>
	<li>Software Administration: Manage access and operation of RVI’s suite of software tools, including Adobe Creative Cloud, MS Office, Gmail, Slack, Zoom, and Google Workspace; handle email setup and digital infrastructure support.</li>
	<li>IT Support: Provide IT assistance to the RVI team, troubleshooting technical issues and coordinating with external IT services for hardware maintenance and procurement.</li>
	<li>Institutional Resources and Templates: Support the maintenance and development of RVI’s branded stationery and templates (e.g., logos, letterheads, forms, timesheets) to ensure consistency across organizational materials.</li>
	<li>System and Process Enhancement: Support the improvement of systems and processes for knowledge management and IT to increase operational efficiency and streamline account management across the organization.</li>
</ul>

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge and Qualifications

<ul>
	<li>Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field.</li>
	<li>Regional Knowledge: Interest in and understanding of the region where RVI operates.</li>
	<li>Technical Skills: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, social media management platforms, CMS tools, PR tools (e.g., media monitoring software), and data/storage management platforms.</li>
	<li>Analytics Proficiency: Familiarity with digital analytics tools, including Google Analytics, to support data-driven campaign evaluation.</li>
</ul>

Experience

<ul>
	<li>Communications and PR Experience: Minimum of 3 years in a communications or PR role, with experience executing large-scale campaigns and coordinating public engagement activities.</li>
	<li>Collaboration: Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external partners.</li>
</ul>

Skills and Abilities

<ul>
	<li>Communication Skills: Strong written, verbal, and visual communication skills, with the ability to produce engaging content across platforms.</li>
	<li>Organizational Skills: Excellent multitasking and organizational abilities to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.</li>
	<li>Analytical Skills: Competency in using communications metrics and digital analytics to evaluate and improve campaign effectiveness.</li>
</ul>

Programme Officer: Communications and Public Engagement

SCOPE OF THE ROLE
<ul>
<li>The Deputy Team Leader - Finance, Operations and Compliance, oversees the management of the Platform’s financial and logistical activities in a manner that enables the Platform to operate in line with RVI’s financial procedures, and those of the donors. The DTL manages the Finance and Administrative Officer and the Grants Officer. </li>
</ul>
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
<ul>
<li>Lead programme support, administration and compliance at the Platform (30%) </li>
<li>Maintain and oversee the Platform’s operations, travel, procurement, partner contracts and budgets, financial management, risk management, and security procedures, ensuring that they are aligned to RVI’s organisational policies. </li>
<li>Ensure the Platform’s operational practices are aligned with RVI’s policies and procedures and adhere to donor terms and conditions. </li>
<li>Act as the focal point with the Platform’s donor on operational issues, ensuring compliance to standard financial regulations, with donor contracting policies and procedures and supporting financial planning and reporting activities. </li>
<li>Oversee the Platform’s compliance with mandatory legal requirements in Somalia, such as RVI 2024.07.14 – Job Description – DTL Finance, Operations and Compliance - SDP 3 registration, employment laws, tax laws, health and safety, security and other specific statutory rules and procedures. Provide oversight and quality assurance over programme financial management (30%) </li>
<li>Oversee programme financial management and ensure RVI’s and donor procedures are followed across all categories of expenditure </li>
<li>Ensure timely, accurate and accessible financial reporting is produced for programme leadership, RVI and Platform donors, and manage the timely invoicing for the donor. </li>
<li>Establish and maintain a methodology for ensuring and demonstrating Value for Money (VFM) across the Platform’s deliverables. </li>
<li>Support budget development and forecasting processes at the Platform. </li>
<li>Act as the key liaison with RVI Finance department on financial management, and provide necessary information on organisational financial matters </li>
<li>Act as the focal point for the Platform and sub grantee due diligence processes and audits. Provide oversight and quality assurance of the programme’s procurement processes (15%) </li>
<li>Lead on all procurement processes for the Platform and ensure that RVI’s and the donors’ procedures are followed </li>
<li>Oversee the sourcing, contracting and onboarding of all suppliers (partners, consultants, and sub grantees) to ensure compliance with RVI and donor policies and procedures. Provide oversight and quality assurance over the Platform’s operations, risk and security (15%) </li>
<li>Oversee the maintenance of safe and secure operations through the implementation of security protocols and guidelines across Somalia, including office management, travel and logistics. </li>
<li>Ensure all RVI policies such as safeguarding, fraud and anti-bribery, health and safety and code of conduct are implemented </li>
<li>Oversee day-to-day programme operations and logistics to ensure technical teams receive sufficient support to deliver activities </li>
<li>Oversee the Platform’s risk register, reviewing it on a quarterly basis and ensuring appropriate mitigation measures are in place. Team Management (10%) </li>
<li>Line-manage the Finance and Admin Officer and the Grants and Compliance Officer ensuring they are able to effectively discharge their duties </li>
<li>Undertake performance management activities ensuring the Grants and Compliance Officer and the Finance and Admin Officer have clear performance objectives, conduct regular staff appraisal, and support their development in line with their specific contracts. </li>
</ul>
Knowledge and Qualifications 
<ul>
<li>A Master’s degree or equivalent in Business Administration, Finance and Accounting fields </li>
<li>Tertiary accounting qualification (AAT, CPA, ACCA/CIMA foundation stage or similar) or demonstrable interest in acquiring a finance education </li>
<li>Familiarity withcharity accountingprocedures. </li>
<li>Knowledgeof Standard Operation and Regulations Procedures (SORP) </li>
<li>In-depth knowledge and understanding of managing grants and compliance activities of major donors such as FCDO. </li>
<li>Familiar with managing security, duty of care and human resources. </li>
<li>Familiar with the principles of value for money and experience of to cascading such principles to sub-grantees. Experience </li>
<li>Substantial experience of working within the charity or commercial sector </li>
<li>Experience of managing and prioritising a high workload and multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines </li>
<li>Experience of managing a team and working with diverse people </li>
<li>Experience in conducting and /or coordinating audit processes </li>
<li>Experience with MS Office suite, particularly excel </li>
<li>Experience in accounting packages, with preference for proficiency with QuickBooks Skills and Abilities </li>
<li>Strategic and adaptive thinking </li>
<li>Excellent financial management and project management and planning skills </li>
<li>Strong interpersonal communication skills </li>
<li>Excellent written and communication skills </li>
<li>Fluency in English (essential) </li>
<li>Able to represent the project to donor coordination meetings and explain compliance issues</li>
</ul>

Deputy Team Leader – Finance, Operations and Compliance

Head of Programmes: Overview
<ul>
<li>The Head of Programmes is a newly created position that is intended to support the expansion of the Institute in Africa, enhance the quality of the Institute’s work, and ensure that its programmes are meaningful and professionally run to the benefit of communities in the countries where RVI operates. Working collaboratively with colleagues, the Head of Programmes will ensure the Institute is working to a common purpose across multiple countries, that its staff are supported to realize their professional potentials, and relationships are cultivated with RVI Fellows and like-minded research institutes.</li>
</ul>
The Role
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Development: Play a leading role in the development of long-term organisational strategic plans that deliver the vision and mission of the Institute in a sustainable way, that have a meaningful and measurable positive impact, and advance the development of RVI as an African-based institute.
Programme Delivery: Lead, innovate and support the design and development of meaningful programmes that benefit the people of eastern and central Africa, support the achievement of RVI goals in local knowledge generation and application, and ensure strategic synergies, collaboration, coherence and adequate resources between country programmes. Oversee the development of systems for monitoring impact and learning.
Resource mobilisation: Oversee the expansion and diversification of RVI’s funding sources, by leading funding bids that fall within the goals of the Institute.
Publications and Communications: Provide quality control of RVI’s publications in collaboration with the Publications and Communications Manager.
Team leadership: Cultivate an enabling and empowering workplace environment and ensure RVI’s programme of work is delivered in a safe and secure manner.
Knowledge Management: Monitor political, social, humanitarian and security developments in East Africa and the Horn of Africa and ensure RVI has systems in place for documenting and archiving RVI’s projects, publications, and organisational history.
The Person
<ul>
<li>We seek applications from candidates with the following values, qualifications, experience and skills.</li>
</ul>
Values
<ul>
<li>Demonstrate a commitment to RVI’s values and ways of working, and that anunderstanding of local knowledge and local concerns enables equitable development and peaceful and open societies.</li>
</ul>
Knowledge &amp; Qualifications
<ul>
<li>Hold a Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant social science discipline.</li>
<li>A strategic thinker with proven ability to develop and implement long-term institutional plans.</li>
<li>A track-record in research in countries of the Rift Valley region where RVI works and demonstrable experience of the operational challenges of working in fragile and insecure contexts.</li>
<li>An understanding of climate change as a key risk to development, peace and security for communities in countries where RVI operates.</li>
<li>A commitment to development that promotes social equity and inclusion.</li>
</ul>
Experience
<ul>
<li>Extensive, progressive experience in senior, director level, leadership roles working with or within the international development sector.</li>
<li>A track record in programme design and managing effective partnerships.</li>
<li>A track record in social science research or education.</li>
<li>A track record in the management and stewardship of human resources and creating an enabling environment for professional development.</li>
<li>Experience in spearheading and developing organisational strategies and workplans.</li>
<li>A track record in proposal writing and fundraising.</li>
<li>Widely travelled with experience of working in eastern or central Africa.</li>
<li>Proven commitment to a culture of learning and innovation.</li>
<li>Experience in promoting public engagement in research, education and policy and building capacity and collaborative networks of researchers and research institutions.</li>
</ul>
Skills &amp; Abilities
<ul>
<li>Ability to lead strategic and operation planning processes and the implementation of long-term organisational plans.</li>
<li>Ability to prioritise and manage a high workload and multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines.</li>
<li>Ability to manage resources, both human and financial, sensitively and effectively.</li>
<li>Good communications skills with ability to explain RVI’s work and strategy in public.</li>
<li>Strong collaboration skills to work with staff and partners.</li>
<li>Proficiency in a regional language highly desirable.</li>
<li>A track record in resource mobilisation and an ability to nurture donor relations.</li>
</ul>

Head of Programmes

<h2>The Somali Dialogue Platform</h2>
The Somali Dialogue Platform (‘The Platform’) is a policy dialogue and facilitation initiative, managed by the Rift Valley Institute (RVI), that responds to the need to support more collaborative, productive and inclusive political processes that can transform Somalia’s political settlement. The Platform works with the grain of Somali political culture—seeking to create dialogue spaces genuinely trusted and owned by Somalis, where they can confidently address past conflicts and grievances and collaborate to resolve fundamental differences in their ideas, moving past bargaining based on narrower interests. It does this by working with a coalition of Somali organisations and individuals, whose combined knowledge, networks, and convening power can support and enable productive, broad-based, Somali-led political processes.
<h3>The Role</h3>
The purpose of the Team Leader’s position is to lead and oversee the delivery, management and development of the Somali Dialogue Platform ensuring that it achieves its objectives in a way that is aligned with RVI’s core principles and policies and supports the strategic development of the organisation. The Team Leader is expected to develop the Platform through multiple iterations of change and growth, managing the integration of the programme with RVI strategically and operationally, ensuring sustainability and the capacity to deliver against its core objectives. From June 2023, the Platform will become a partner of the Somali Stability Fund (SSF III).
<h4>KEY RESPONSIBILITIES</h4>
The Team Leader has the following key responsibilities:
Programme strategy, design and oversight
Lead the development of the Platform and its portfolio of work, overseeing the design and adaptation processes between Platform staff, consultants, partners, donors and other RVI staff and management. Review and approve the Platform workplan, ensuring this is based on the programme’s theory of change and fundamental principles and supports the delivery of the programme’s strategic objectives.
Monitor and aggregate political analysis at the Platform, including chairing weekly political team meetings to inform programme strategy and design, briefing RVI management on political and reputational risk, and supporting international community policy development. Develop effective partnerships with organisations and individuals that support the delivery of the Platform’s objectives while contributing to high level policy and research dissemination events and processes with Somali and other stakeholders.
Donor relations and governance
Act as the focal point for communication and engagement with the Somalia Stability Fund (SSFIII) and Platform donors via SSF’s Joint Donor Committee (JDC), while ensuring the Platform’s role within SSFIII remains relevant and aligned, and ensures continued funding to deliver the programme objectives, including through the delivery of timely high standard and accurate narrative and financial reports.
Programme and financial management and accountability
Lead and manage the Platform team, ensuring the set-up of appropriate governance, decision-making and internal communications structures. Has ultimate responsibility for overall resource management, ensures the SDP has robust financial management, and meets operational efficiency in compliance, procurement, operations, security procedures and risk management. Support the Platform’s Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning approach, ensuring systematic collection, analysis, and reporting of data, enabling an adaptive and learning-based approach. Ensure the Platform team maintains a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities and work together effectively to deliver on the programme’s shared objectives. Develop and oversee the development of Platform policies for programme management.
Staff management and capacity-building
Support and mentor platform staff in the delivery of their work, through performance management and regular feedback meetings, and with opportunities for personal and professional growth and skills development
Other Partnerships and external relations
Represent the Platform to Somali counterparts, donors and others through bilateral meetings and participation in Platform events and maintain strong relationships with other international organisations in Somalia.
Responsibilities to RVI
In collaboration with the RVI Executive Management Team, lead the development and assessment of the Platform’s business case, establishing and analysing the Platform sustainably. Participate in RVI organisational meetings and business processes to ensure the Platform’s operation is aligned with RVI’s core principles and policies and supports the strategic development of the organisation during annual planning, reporting and monitoring, evaluation and learning processes.
<h3>The Person</h3>
Values
<ul><li>Commitment to RVI’s values, vision, aims and ways of working.</li>
</ul>Knowledge and Qualifications
<ul><li>A Masters degree in relevant field (political science, development studies, social science, anthropology).</li>
<li>In-depth knowledge and understanding of Somali political dynamics (as well as society, culture and economy), and broader regional and international dynamics.</li>
<li>Excellent knowledge of concepts related to political settlement, election design and implementation, constitutional reform, security architecture, fiscal governance, gender and political participation, and federal arrangements.</li>
<li>Knowledge and understanding of peacebuilding, mediation, dialogue, negotiation, and civic engagement approaches.</li>
<li>In-depth understanding of international engagement and policy landscape in Somalia.</li>
</ul>Experience
<ul><li>Significant experience in designing, developing and implementing complex peacebuilding projects and programmes in fragile contexts (ideally Somalia), and/or supporting political, peace-making and post conflict state building.</li>
<li>Experience designing, delivering and writing research projects for a range of decision-makers.</li>
<li>Significant leadership experience, setting-up and managing large and diverse teams, establishing ways of working and management systems and developing effective organisational cultures.</li>
<li>Significant experience in programme management, including MEAL systems, financial management for large multi-donor, multi-year programmes, risk management, travel, logistics and security.</li>
<li>Significant experience in managing complex relations and high-level representation with a range of stakeholders, including social and institutional actors, governments and international agencies.</li>
<li>Significant experience managing and developing donor relations.</li>
</ul>Skills and Abilities
<ul><li>Strategic and adaptive thinking.</li>
<li>Excellent project management and planning skills.</li>
<li>Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to represent analyses on complex and fraught issues to a range of senior Somali and international stakeholders.</li>
<li>Excellent facilitation and negotiation skills</li>
<li>Skills in social science research methods</li>
</ul>For details of the role please refer to the full Job Description here.
<h3>Summary</h3>
Job Title: Team Leader – Somalia Dialogue Platform Location: Nairobi, Kenya Employment type: Full-time, Fixed Term (to 1 September 2024) with the opportunity to extend. Start date: As soon as possible. Salary: According to organisational salary grading system and commensurate with skills and experience. Benefits: Annual paid leave, health insurance and pension.

 
 <h2 class="rw-how-to-apply__title">How to apply</h2>
 <h3>How to apply</h3>
Please refer to the full Job Description as a guide and apply here. Applications must include the following:
<ul><li>
A full CV (no more than three pages)</li>
<li>A cover letter supporting your application outlining your motivation, experience, and knowledge relevant for the position (no more than two pages)</li>
<li>The name, email address and telephone numbers of two professional referees, one must be your most recent supervisor.</li>
</ul>Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Application closing date: 2nd June 2023
Expected interview dates: Week of 19th June 2023

TEAM LEADER - SOMALI DIALOGUE PLATFORM

Scope of the role:
Working under the line management of the Education and Forums Manager, the intern provides timely admin and logistics support during the planning and implementation of courses and performs post courses follow-up activities as guided by the Manager.
Key working relationships
<ul>
<li>Maintain regular contact with course programme manager and any other staff working on courses and forums (where required)</li>
<li>Work on a regular basis with RVI partners, consultants and other key stakeholders of the courses programme</li>
<li>Occasionally work with other RVI staff as required on communication and marketing as well as design related issues</li>
</ul>
Key Responsibilities
Course administration (35%)
<ul>
<li>Correspond by email and phone with course participants and consultants.</li>
<li>Prepare and file all documentation related to the courses.</li>
<li>Take minutes of meetings and prepare regular progress reports.</li>
<li>Assist in drafting of contracts and other procurement related paperwork.</li>
<li>Coordinate the production of all materials related to courses.</li>
</ul>
Course logistics (35%)
<ul>
<li>Coordinate visas, flights, taxis and travel plans for course consultants and participants.</li>
<li>Book and manage external service providers.</li>
<li>Ensure up to date contact information for emergency services and other key contacts.</li>
<li>Ensure all equipment and stationery necessary for the course is functional.</li>
<li>Provide pre-­‐, during and post-­‐ course administrative and logistical support.</li>
</ul>
Information and communications (20%)
<ul>
<li>Regularly compile course information for monthly mail-outs and updates for website.</li>
<li>Contribute to marketing and social media campaign.</li>
<li>Supervise the timely production of the course marketing materials.</li>
<li>Organize and maintain filing system for all course related documentation.</li>
<li>Update database software with participant and consultant information.</li>
</ul>
Finance (10%)
<ul>
<li>Assist in preparing budgets as required.</li>
<li>Assist in monitoring expenditure.</li>
<li>Administer course related expenditure.</li>
</ul>
Person Specification
Knowledge &amp; Qualifications
<ul>
<li>Bachelor’s degree in African studies, International Studies, Business Administration, Events Management, or other related degree.</li>
<li>Interest in and/or experience working in or on eastern and central Africa.</li>
<li>Working knowledge of a relevant second language (particularly Swahili, French)</li>
</ul>
Experience
<ul>
<li>Experience running large scale/ multi-national events, especially online or on a hybrid model.</li>
</ul>
Skills &amp; Abilities
<ul>
<li>Strong oral and written communication skills; particularly experience with corporate writing in English/French, especially writing reports</li>
<li>Ability to stay calm under pressure and to quickly problem solve in a fast-paced environment (particularly in running large events).</li>
<li>Multi-tasking skills: Ability to juggle various moving pieces/projects particularly in running high-level events.</li>
<li>Strong interpersonal or cross-cultural skills; ability to work well with teams and people from various backgrounds, professions, and countries.</li>
<li>Tech-savvy; ability to solve technology-related problems and/or learn how to solve new tech challenges quickly</li>
</ul>

Education Programme Intern

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Knowledge and Qualifications
<ul>
<li>Postgraduate degree in political science, social science, evaluation, development studies or similar social sciences field</li>
<li>Familiarity with a range of M&amp;E approaches and methods, especially qualitative methods</li>
<li>Demonstrable expertise in programme evaluation for complex peacebuilding programmes</li>
<li>Demonstrable understanding of Platform’s conceptual area, especially political settlements and measuring their changing dynamics</li>
<li>Track-record in writing compelling and insightful donor reports that evidence impact and learning</li>
</ul>
Experience
<ul>
<li>At least five-years experience in programme monitoring and evaluation in fragile contexts, including Somalia (a specific focus on peacebuilding or rights or governance programmes an advantage)</li>
<li>Experienced in developing learning and adaptive working cultures and methods to support collective reflection, assessment on progress and strategic and tactical adaptation</li>
<li>Experience in designing and developing learning and training programmes in areas related to the programme’s field of work.</li>
<li>Experience in generating effective programme communications, including social media feeds and email dissemination lists, able to write compelling copy for websites and social media dissemination</li>
</ul>
Skills and Abilities:
<ul>
<li>Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic and political environment and willing to iterate job role as part of a collaborative process of shaping an innovative peacebuilding programme with flexibility</li>
<li>Excellent written and oral communications skills – able to present and synthesize complex information to programme leadership and a senior external audience</li>
<li>Excellent knowledge/information management skills including use of relevant data collection/storage and database tools and software</li>
<li>Excellent qualitative and quantitative analytical skills</li>
<li>Strong project management skills</li>
<li>Able to design and coordinate range of data collection processes including post-event surveys, and key informant interviews, as well as qualitative analysis methodologies</li>
<li>Able to managing donor relations and representing programmes to donors</li>
<li>Comfortable working in a diverse working culture</li>
<li>Fluency in spoken and written English and Somali</li>
</ul>

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Lead, Somali Dialogue Platform

About RVI
The Rift Valley Institute is an independent, non-profit organisation working in eastern and central Africa since 2001. The Institute works at the interface between research, policy and education. The aims of the Institute are to advance understanding of the region and its diverse communities, connect local knowledge to social and political action, defend freedom of information and promote social justice through action- oriented research, field-based training, and public information. A UK-registered charity, the Institute has offices in Nairobi, Juba, Hargeysa, Addis Ababa and London
RVI is a leader in practical social science research, policy analysis, training and public information. Our field-based research emerges from and seeks to respond to ideas generated by the communities and institutions with which we work. RVI research projects, which involve collaborations between African and non-African researchers, include training and mentoring of early career researchers to develop their skills and experience. RVI supports the right to information and the exchange of knowledge by publishing its research and disseminating it through public fora.
Our Vision, Mission and Values
Our Vision
Making local knowledge work for the benefit of the people of Eastern and Central Africa.
Our Mission
The Rift Valley Institute is an independent research and educational organization with a social mission: to create a better future for the peoples and communities of Eastern and Central Africa by advancing relevant knowledge of the region through collaborative research, education and training, public information and dialogues, and promoting culture and heritage. The Institute bridges development practice and policy, elevating local voices, knowledge and action.
Our Values
The following values guide and underpin our work:
Respect: We demonstrate respect for local knowledge and the partners and the communities we work with and those who work with us.
Independence: We are independent in our thought and action and produce research and deliver programmes free from external interests.
Integrity: We work with transparency and honesty to ensure accurate and open access to information, and we are accountable for our work and to those we work with.
Collaboration: We believe respectful partnerships are the basis for successful development and we are committed to long term, mutually beneficial collaboration between indigenous institutions, local researchers and international specialists.
Excellence: We strive to produce original work and to sustain our strong reputation for research, public information and training.
Research Training Manager Overview
This is a key position at the Rift Valley Institute. The Research Training Manager (RTM) will work closely with the Executive Director and those who manage RVI’s Courses, public Forums, the South Sudan Women Researcher Network project and other training initiatives.
The Research Training Manager will lead RVI’s strategy on training African researchers. The role holder will manage the Research Communities of Practice Programme. This will include designing a professional development programme for early career researchers in eastern and central Africa, convening and cultivating research communities of practice to bring change across east and central Africa, and generate original research publications that amplify the voices of African scholars and researchers. The role will work closely with RVI colleagues engaged in research, education, and training to ensure coherence, high standards, synergies and learning in order to deliver the Institute’s 2020 to 2023 Development Strategy.
The Role
Key Responsibilities
<ul><li>
Programme Development &amp; Delivery: Provide strategic leadership for the programme, ensuring all those who collaborate with it have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, as well as managing the Research Communities of Practice programme in line with the implementation timeframe agreed with the donor. The role will continue to implement blended and innovative learning programmes for early career researchers, participate in the delivery of training and learning initiatives, establish performance metrics for monitoring, evaluating, learning, as well as fulfil donor reporting requirements.</li>
<li>
Strategic Leadership: Lead RVI’s strategy to invest in the professional development of African researchers and advise on and support the development and delivery of the Institute’s other in-person and online educational and training programmes. The role will expand RVI’s networks of local, regional, and international research partners to build sustainable relations with African and non-African research and academic institutions, ensuring that RVI’s programme is aligned with its core principles and policies and supports the strategic development of the organisation.</li>
<li>
Partnerships, Public and Donor Relations: Cultivate and broker relationships with academic and learning institutes, represent the programme and RVI with national and international counterparts and funders as well as publicise and disseminate the project’s work, maximising the influence of programme trainees with a view to increasing funding and achieving sustainability and long-term impact.</li>
</ul>The Person
Knowledge and Qualifications
<ul><li>Social Science Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as political science, development studies, anthropology is essential, with a PhD as a distinct advantage.</li>
<li>A qualification in training and educational approaches, and an ability to teach others.</li>
<li>A broad knowledge of applied research methodologies.</li>
<li>Demonstrable interest in local knowledge production, equity and social inclusion.</li>
<li>Understanding of the research and policy environment in eastern or central Africa.</li>
<li>An understanding of tertiary education in eastern or central Africa.</li>
<li>Fluent in spoken and written English. Spoken and written knowledge of a second language spoken in the region (French, Arabic, Somali, Kiswahili) is desirable.</li>
</ul>Experience
<ul><li>Significant experience in tertiary level teaching methods, adult learning, and mentorship.</li>
<li>Experienced in designing and implementing blended training courses in applied research methodology, including online.</li>
<li>Experience of organising and facilitating learning events (such as conferences, seminars and workshops).</li>
<li>A track record in designing and undertaking research in Africa and applying qualitative research methods (such as oral history, participant-led, community drama and other forms of action-research techniques).</li>
<li>Experience of creating communities of practice an advantage.</li>
<li>Experienced in programme leadership and management, including monitoring and evaluation, financial management, and risk management.</li>
<li>Experience of developing effective project partnerships with institutions and individuals inside and outside Africa.</li>
<li>Experience of working with governments and international funders.</li>
<li>Experience in successful fundraising.</li>
<li>Experience of living and working in east or central Africa.</li>
</ul>Skills and Abilities
<ul><li>Exceptional facilitation and training skills and the ability to teach and transfer knowledge.</li>
<li>Strategic and adaptative thinking.</li>
<li>Excellent project management and planning skills and an ability to design and lead work plans.</li>
<li>Excellent written and public communication skills.</li>
<li>Strong analytical skills.</li>
</ul>Summary:
Job Title: Research Training Manager Location: Eastern or Central Africa (negotiable based on RVI office locations), with a minimum expectation of 30% travel. Employment type: Full-time, one-year contract, renewable subject to funding Start date: As soon as possible. Salary: Circa $50,000 USD commensurate with skills and experience. Benefits: 28 days annual paid, health insurance, pension, and travel allowances

 
 <h2 class="rw-how-to-apply__title">How to apply</h2>
 Find the full job description here. For further information or any questions please write to the Head of Organisational Development at recruitment@riftvalley.net.
Please apply online here. Applications must include the following:
<ul><li>A full CV (no more than three pages)</li>
<li>A cover letter supporting your application outlining your motivation, experience, and knowledge relevant for the position (no more than two pages)</li>
<li>The name, email address and telephone numbers of two professional referees
</li>
<li>Candidates must have Kenyan resident status or the right to work in Kenya.</li>
</ul>Only applications from candidates who fulfil all the above criteria will be considered for the position. You will only be contacted if you are invited for interview.
Application closing date: Friday, 12 December 2022. However, applications will be reviewed on rolling basis and qualified applicants may be invited for interviews before the deadline.We encourage interested applicants to apply early.

Research Training Manager

<h2>Summary</h2>
The Rift Valley Institute is recruiting for an early career communications professional to help enhance its public presence, particularly online. The role is part-time with some potential for future expansion (subject to funding). The candidate should be based in the UK and will work from RVI’s London office for at least 2 days per week.
As Communications and IT Administrator you will work with RVI’s Senior Publications Manager to develop RVI’s online presence, particularly through its website, publications (online and printed), social media and email updates. You will collaborate closely with research project managers from across the Institute to promote their work in the region—particularly South Sudan, Sudan, Kenya and Somalia—and also with RVI’s education team to help manage marketing and technical demands associated with our bespoke and annual courses.
The ideal candidate will have some prior experience working in a similar role and an interest in eastern, central and the Horn of Africa. If based in the UK, occasional travel to the region, particularly Kenya, is likely in future. You will be happy working as a member of a small team in a dynamic and diverse organization with a global reach.
<h2>General</h2>
Title: Communications and IT Administrator
Location: UK (London) or Kenya (Nairobi). Potential for some homeworking.
Employment type: 3 days per week
Reporting to: Senior Publications and Programme Manager
Salary range: GBP 19,500 / USD 27,200, pro rata. Other benefits include 28 days annual paid leave (pro rata), pension plan, and flexible working hours (subject to negotiation).
Application deadline: 24 March 2021
Start date: As soon as possible
<h2>Description of Duties</h2>
Website management (30%)
<ul>
<li>Ensure the Institute’s website—www.riftvalley.net—is regularly updated with news, publications (reports, briefings and blogs), projects, events and vacancies.</li>
<li>Manage any maintenance and improvements to the website through the content management system or using web-developers where necessary.</li>
<li>Liaise with colleagues to ensure that any static webpages, including information on RVI programmes and projects, new staff, Fellows, courses, and general information about the Institute remain up-to-date.</li>
<li>Support programmes to develop written, video and audio material.</li>
<li>Monitor website use via Google Analytics.</li>
</ul>
Social media (25%)
<ul>
<li>Manage output from the Institute’s social media accounts, particularly Twitter and Facebook, to promote RVI’s work.</li>
<li>Curate and coordinate inputs from across the Institute, and post on platforms.</li>
<li>Manage RVI’s social media style guide, update the guide as necessary and ensure consistency across platforms.</li>
<li>Develop strategies for increasing the Institute’s presence on social media, including via new channels such as Instagram.</li>
</ul>
Publications and outreach (20%)
<ul>
<li>Assist the Publications Manager in developing content for digital platforms, principally blogs and news pieces for the website.</li>
<li>Compile and distribute RVI’s newsletter and programme updates via email to the Institute’s mailing lists.</li>
<li>Assist with editorial work on publications when needed.</li>
<li>Develop, in consultation with the Education and Forum Team, marketing material for RVI courses and events, including brochures, paid advertisements, and social media and email campaigns.</li>
</ul>
Publications design (15%)
<ul>
<li>Use InDesign to design and typeset RVI publications. Where necessary work with external designers to develop RVI publication templates (reports, briefings etc).</li>
<li>Support the development and application of graphics.</li>
</ul>
IT management (10%)
<ul>
<li>Manage RVI’s Google suite.</li>
<li>Manage RVI software subscriptions and related payment schedules.</li>
<li>Advise on and purchase IT hardware (laptops, screens etc) and software.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Requirements</h2>
Essential
<ul>
<li>Educated to undergraduate level.</li>
<li>Native or fluent English speaker.</li>
<li>Experience with Drupal website content management system and HTML.</li>
<li>Proficient with Adobe Creative Cloud—InDesign and Photoshop.</li>
<li>Experience with Google Suite and MS Suite.</li>
<li>Experience with Mailchimp digital marketing.</li>
<li>Experience of social media platforms for work purposes, including (but not restricted to) Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.</li>
<li>Experience of writing and editing website content.</li>
<li>Ability to work as part of a small team.</li>
</ul>
Desired
<ul>
<li>Experience working in a related role—INGO or similar—with responsibility for communications, website management, social media, IT support and publication design.</li>
<li>Interest in and / or experience working in or on eastern Africa and central Africa.</li>
<li>Ability to work in a second language, particularly Swahili, Arabic, Somali or French.</li>
</ul>