TEAM LEAD – Remote, with travel to Juba

The USN/TCN Team Lead is responsible for the overall planning, execution, and completion of the study investigating the effects of the economic crisis on humanitarian aid delivery in South Sudan. This role requires strong leadership, research expertise, and project management skills. Reporting to the MELS Deputy Chief of Party, the Team Lead will oversee all study aspects, from conceptualization to dissemination of findings. Key responsibilities include designing the research methodology, managing the research team, coordinating data collection and analysis, ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines, and communicating research findings to stakeholders. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of the humanitarian context of South Sudan, as well as techniques for economic analysis and research methods.

Roles and Responsibilities

Overall project management

• Develops and oversees the overall research design and methodology.
• Ensures alignment of research objectives with the study’s goals.
• Manages the research timeline.
• Trains and manages the research team.
• Establish clear communication channels within the team and with stakeholders.

Research design and implementation

• Leads the overall development of the research framework.
• Oversees data collection processes, including literature review, interviews, and focus groups.
• Ensures data quality and integrity through rigorous data management protocols.
• Collaborates with data analysts to develop appropriate analysis plans.

Stakeholder management

• Build relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, humanitarian organizations, and community representatives.
• Represents the research team at relevant meetings and conferences.
• Disseminates research findings to key stakeholders through reports and presentations
• Team Leadership and Coordination
• Provides clear guidance and mentorship to research team members.
• Fosters a collaborative and supportive research environment.
• Resolves conflicts and issues within the team.
• Monitors team performance and provides regular feedback.

Report writing and dissemination

• Writes reports, including inception, draft, and final reports.
• Ensures that research findings are communicated effectively and accurately.
• Develops appropriate strategies for disseminating research results to target audiences.
• Represents the research team at conferences and other dissemination platforms.

Quality assurance

• Ensures adherence to research protocols and ethical guidelines.
• Conducts regular quality checks on data collection and analysis processes.
• Implements measures to mitigate research biases and limitations.
• Maintains accurate and complete documentation of research activities.

Qualifications:

Educational background

• Advanced degree in economics, development studies, business studies, or a related field.

Professional experience

• Substantial experience in humanitarian aid and development, focusing on economic analysis and policy.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience designing and leading research of USAID-funded activities.
• Proven track record in conducting research and managing research teams in complex environments.
• Experience working in South Sudan or similar contexts is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

Skills and competencies

• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and report-writing skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation.
• Knowledge of project management tools and software.
• Experience in working with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Understanding of ethical considerations in research.