• Lead strategic research initiatives related to electoral management, voter education, electoral technology, and democratic governance.
• Conduct comprehensive analyses of domestic and international electoral practices and contribute to evidence-based policy development.
• Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of research projects aimed at improving election administration and governance.
• Present research findings and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and stakeholders.

Knowledge Sharing:

• Develop and implement strategies for sharing M&E results and lessons learned with internal and external stakeholders.
• Facilitate knowledge-sharing sessions, workshops, and forums to promote a culture of learning within the organization.

Capacity Building:

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify learning needs and design targeted capacity-building interventions.
• Implement knowledge-sharing mechanisms to foster continuous learning and professional development within the organization.

Partnership and Advocacy:

• Cultivate strategic partnerships with academic institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to promote knowledge exchange and collaboration.
• Contribute to thought leadership initiatives and publications to advance the field of election management and administration.

Continuous Improvement:

• Collaborate with program teams to identify areas for programmatic improvement based on research findings.
• Support the development of action plans to address identified weaknesses and enhance program effectiveness.

Strategic Planning:

• Contribute to the strategic planning process by providing evidence-based insights and recommendations derived from research findings.
• Assist in aligning future program strategies with research findings and organizational goals.

External Engagement:

• Represent the organization in external forums, conferences, and working groups related to M&E and learning.
• Collaborate with external partners to share best practices and experiences.

Requirements

Education and Work Experience:

• MA/M.Sc./BA in Project Planning and Management, Statistics, Public Policy, Law, or a related field.
• For MA/M.Sc. holders: at least 7 years of relevant experience.
• For BA holders: at least 8 years of relevant experience in strategic planning, research design, and data analysis within electoral management or related fields.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of PMEA or MEAL system, preferably in the context of elections or governance-related programs.
• Knowledge of Election cycle management
• Familiarity with electoral laws, regulations, and processes is advantageous.
• Knowledge of Knowledge management, learning and documentation
• Knowledge of data analytics and proficiency in quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques.
• Knowledge of PMEL methodologies, tools, and best practices.

Know-How (Skills) (Technical competencies):

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or STATA) for quantitative research.
• Deep understanding of qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, and content analysis.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Effective communicator with demonstrated ability to distill complex information into clear and compelling presentations.
• Experience working with electoral stakeholders, such as government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners.
• Commitment to upholding electoral integrity, transparency, and democratic principles.
• Ability to facilitate discussions, workshops, and training sessions.
• Experience in electoral processes or related fields are advantageous.
• Fluency in English and Amharic (written and spoken).
• Fluency in English and Amharic required (written and spoken),

Behavioural competencies:

• Adaptability/ flexibility,
• Willingness to adhere to all principles of confidentiality and impartiality,
• Data protection/Sensitivity,
• Customer orientation,
• Persistence/Endurance,
• Maintaining organizational etiquette, Integrity and Honesty,
• Operating in a collaborative and cooperative environment,
• Ability to thrive in a fast-moving environment, with an emphasis on high performance, teamwork, accountability, and results,
• Showing initiative, good judgment, and resourcefulness