Who We Are
Peace is our commitment. The United States Institute of Peace represents the American people’s shared values and commitment to peace around the world. We know that Peace is Security – it advances both U.S. and international security by preventing, managing and mitigating violent conflict.
We are an independent, non-partisan institution and are actively engaged with peacebuilding efforts around the world. Together we tackle the toughest problems and hold fast to the possibility of a more peaceful world. (To learn more about USIP programs and job openings, go to https://www.usip.org/about/careers.
If you have a passion for making the world a better place and want to have a front row seat to the world stage, USIP is the place for you.
JOB BRIEF
The Senior Expert for the Greater Horn of Africa will be responsible for leading substantive research and analysis on conflict dynamics in Horn of Africa with a particular focus on Sudan and South Sudan. This person will cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders working on issues related to the Greater Horn of Africa and help USIP design and implement its thought leadership and programming work in the region. The Senior Expert will report to the Director for Africa Programs, serve as part of the Africa leadership team, and work closely with other colleagues across USIP. The Senior Expert will supervise USIP staff and consultants in Washington, DC as required. This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC, with some international travel required.
TARGET SALARY RANGE
Grade 14 - $121,000 - $125,000
The Institute uses the General Schedule salary tables for administering compensation. Offers of employment are determined based upon candidate qualifications, related experience, internal equity and amount budgeted for the position.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Research, Analysis, and Thought Leadership:
- Serves as an expert on political and conflict dynamics in the Greater Horn of Africa, with a particular emphasis on Sudan and South Sudan.
- Advises internal and external partners on peacebuilding approaches, peace processes and strategic policy approaches in line with the fragility agenda, regional priorities and initiatives, and international approaches. These approaches should inform the strategic development of the USIP program and its underpinning projects.
- Researches and writes on topics relevant to USIP’s work, including the connected conflict dynamics between Sudan and South Sudan, the role of regional organizations, and the opportunities and challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, conflict and peace.
- Provides briefings to governmental or other organizations on topics related to the Greater Horn of Africa and USIP’s work.
- Responds to public queries and media requests.
- Leads efforts to represent the program in internal and external events and to disseminate information about USIP’s programs and research findings.
- Plays a lead role in proposing innovative research and programming to advance USIP’s mission.
- Liaises closely with key stakeholders in the United States, the Greater Horn of Africa, and around the world.
Development and Planning:
- Works with the Director for Africa Programs, plays a lead role in strategy development and implementation for thought leadership and research projects, and other program activities related to the Greater Horn of Africa.
- Plays a lead role in strategy development (e.g., developing the program’s strategic plan, goals, objectives, and operating plan in line with the Africa and USIP Strategic plans; designating appropriate resources required to support goals and objectives; leveraging USIP’s thematic team and peacebuilding toolbox, etc.) on projects in the Greater Horn of Africa, with a particular focus on Sudan and South Sudan.
- Helps structure and execute a wide range of program activities and events, including Sudan and South Sudan Working Groups, related to the Greater Horn of Africa in close partnership with other Africa team members in Washington and based in the Horn of Africa.
- Identifies and maintains critical stakeholder relationships related to the program.
- Oversees development and implementation of monitoring, learning and evaluation plans in line with USIP’s strategic plan.
- Ensures the highest level of communication and cooperation with relevant USIP departments/divisions/teams and external partners, including leading regular internal coordination meetings and serving as a point person.
- Participates in strategic planning sessions with regional and thematic teams.
- Keeps up-to-date on new research and programs as they relate to USIP’s work.
Financial Management:
- Pursues U.S. government funding for project initiatives.
- Manages project budgets and ensures activities are implemented within program timelines and in a manner that meets program standards and objectives.
- Oversees development and submission of project progress reports as required.
Other:
- Travels around the United States or internationally as required.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s, PhD or JD degree in political science, international affairs, law, or related field.
- A minimum of eight (8) years of related work experience, including experience with U.S. government policymaking.
- A minimum of eight (8) years of relevant experience working in/on the Greater Horn of Africa, with a particular emphasis on Sudan and South Sudan.
- Demonstrated research, analytic, and writing skills, and excellent communication skills. Ability to write effectively in a variety of formats and for a variety of audiences.
- Demonstrated experience coordinating with officials in government, international organizations, and national partners.
- Fluency in English required and command of Arabic is a strong asset.
All USIP contract and employee positions are contingent upon the favorable completion of a suitability background investigation.
Compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
HOW TO APPLY
To be considered for this position, please submit a complete application package consisting of:
- Completed employment application including titles, dates of hire and salary requirements.
- Cover letter
- Resume
For questions about this position please email recruitment@usip.org. Do not send resumes or attachments to this email address.
Only those applicants that are selected for further discussions will be contacted.
No Phone Calls. Interviews will be scheduled by appointment only.
USIP is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy and practice of USIP to offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, age, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, political affiliations or belief, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The USIP is committed to building a diverse staff and strongly encourages applications from candidates of color.
How to apply:
To apply for this position, please use the following URL: