The ISS seeks to appoint a Regional Organised Crime Observatory Coordinator for West Africa, under the ENACT project. The project aims to strengthen policy on transnational organised crime in Africa based on locally sourced research and analysis.

The successful candidate will coordinate research and build networks with stakeholders in West Africa. The position requires an understanding of regional and national trends and responses to organised crime, and a proactive approach to identifying new research areas. Candidates must be delivery focused with experience in qualitative research, writing and public presentations using a range of virtual meeting platforms. The coordinator will report to the ENACT Programme Head.

Overview of duties

Build networks and maintain relationships with stakeholders, primarily: ECOWAS, inter-governmental institutions, national government officials, law enforcement and justice practitioners, EU representatives, civil society and the media

Oversee a small team that is building civil society research capacity in West Africa

Disseminate research findings through meetings, briefings and seminars in liaison with the ENACT team
Identify stakeholders’ needs in terms of policy support, technical support and implementation, and work with ENACT team to deliver assistance

Gather and share regional and national information with the ENACT team, and assist in identifying and responding to stakeholders’ needs

Keep up with current regional and national trends, including key organised crime problems and responses and actors, and make recommendations to ENACT on priorities for research and action

Prepare written reports

Ensure that all expenditure complies with required financial rules and procedures

Overview of requirements

At least a Master’s degree in governance, development, security and policing or related relevant discipline
At least 7 years’ experience in policy support or technical assistance relating to inter-governmental institutions, governments and/or civil society in West Africa
Knowledge of transnational organised crime, development, crime and security, customs, corruption, or related field in West Africa
Excellent verbal and written skills in English; French will be advantageous
Interpersonal and networking skills, including the ability to work in a multi-cultural environment and establish working relationships within and outside the ISS with a diversity of stakeholders
An extensive existing network among the project’s stakeholders; networks in the organised crime field would be an advantage
This will be a delivery-based contract for 24 months, preferably from 1 August 2022, and may be renewed subject to project requirements, funding and satisfactory performance.

Email your application to Rekha Valabh at pretoriajobs@issafrica.org. Applicants must provide a cover letter, detailed CV, and recent writing sample, including at least three contactable referees.

Ideally, applicants should be based in Nigeria. There is scope for relocation, when circumstances permit. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.