Director of Global Policy Strategy & Advocacy

Key Responsibilities:

• Government Policy Strategy:
  • Develop and refine a comprehensive global policy strategy that outlines clear pathways for government adoption and integration of UPG programs in Village Enterprise's target countries.
  • Conduct in-depth research and analysis of the political, economic, and social contexts in target countries to identify opportunities and barriers to UPG adoption.
  • Develop a robust evidence base that demonstrates the impact and cost-effectiveness of UPG, drawing on Village Enterprise's extensive program data and external research.
• Advocacy Enablement:
  • Create persuasive policy briefs, position papers, talking points, and presentations that equip Village Enterprise representatives to effectively advocate for UPG with government officials.
  • Develop comprehensive toolkits and training materials to build the capacity of our teams to engage in policy dialogues and negotiations with government stakeholders.
  • Position Village Enterprise as a thought leader in UPG and innovative financing through publications, media coverage, conferences, and webinars.
  • Stay abreast of the latest policy developments and research in poverty alleviation to inform our advocacy strategies and ensure our messaging is current and relevant.
• Strategic Partnerships:
  • Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with key government agencies, research institutions, and think tanks to amplify our policy influence and reach.
  • Collaborate with partner organizations to develop joint advocacy initiatives and policy recommendations that advance the UPG agenda.
  • Represent Village Enterprise in relevant policy working groups and coalitions to build consensus and drive collective action on poverty graduation.
• Innovative Financing:
  • Collaborate with the innovative financing team to ensure that policy advocacy efforts align with and support our results-based financing initiatives.
  • Contribute to the development of policy recommendations that incentivize government adoption of results-based financing for poverty alleviation programs.
  • Identify and pursue opportunities to leverage innovative financing mechanisms to scale up UPG programs in partnership with governments.
• Policy Impact & Learning:
  • Track and analyze government policies and programs related to poverty reduction and UPG to identify opportunities for engagement and advocacy.
  • Develop and implement a robust framework to assess the impact of Village Enterprise's policy advocacy work on government adoption and implementation of UPG.
  • Prepare regular reports for senior leadership and the board, highlighting progress towards government partnership goals and identifying areas for improvement.

Indicators of Success for this role:

1. Policy Influence: Number of policy documents, strategies, or plans that incorporate UPG principles or recommendations as a result of Village Enterprise's advocacy efforts.
2. Evidence Utilization: Number of instances where Village Enterprise's research and data are cited or referenced in government policy discussions or decisions.
3. Partnership Strength: Number and quality of strategic partnerships established with government agencies, research institutions, and think tanks to advance UPG.
4. Innovative Financing Integration: Number of government partnerships that incorporate innovative financing mechanisms, such as results-based financing, for UPG implementation.

Qualifications:

• Education: Advanced degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, Development Studies, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in policy development, advocacy, and government relations, with demonstrated experience in international or multi-country contexts.
• Skills:
  • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences.
  • Proven track record of influencing policy change and building strategic partnerships at the national and international levels.
  • Deep understanding of political and policy landscapes in multiple African countries.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage complex, multi-country initiatives.
  • Fluency in English and proficiency in at least one other relevant language (e.g., French, Swahili).

Bonus Qualifications:

• Established relationships with key policymakers in multiple African countries.
• Experience with UPG programs or other poverty alleviation initiatives in diverse cultural contexts.
• Familiarity with innovative financing mechanisms.

Safeguarding:

"Safeguarding at VE is everyone’s responsibility"

• Ensure program participants are continuously sensitized about possible risks of child abuse, sexual/financial exploitation, prevention and response mechanisms
• Ensure compliance with VE’s safeguarding policies and Code of Conduct in all programs, operations and practices.
• Report any child or adult safeguarding incidents in program operations for appropriate action and follow up.

Living Our Values:

At Village Enterprise, our values are the heart of our work. We seek candidates who embody:

• Ubuntu: Service to others with respect, empathy, and dignity.
• Passion: Unwavering belief in our mission and the potential of people living in poverty.
• Integrity: Highest standards of ethical conduct and transparency.
• Innovation: Embrace new ideas and approaches to maximize our impact.
• Sustainability: Commitment to long-term solutions that empower communities.

To apply, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter highlighting your passion for poverty reduction, your international experience, and your qualifications for this role. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

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• Pension