Policy Advocacy Manager

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) is a collaborative, patients’ needs-driven, non-profit drug research and development (R&D) organization that is developing new treatments for neglected diseases.

JOB SUMMARY

Experience and EducationMinimum 6 years' relevant experience in which at least 4 years at Senior Officer levelA track record of policy analysis preferably in  public health  and knowledge of global health , development or science policy.Proven experience of developing and implementing successful advocacy strategies and campaigns, including awareness building initiatives with internal and external stakeholders.Experience in policy advocacy on the Africa continent.  Experience in the East African context a plus. Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment and matrix structureExperience of working in public and private sector is highly desirableGraduate degree with equivalent experience to reach masters level in international relations, public health, public affairs or a related field, or demonstrably equivalent experience through grassroots engagement, preferably with applied work in community, national or global advocacy. Skills and competenciesStrong ability to use initiative, prioritize, multi-task, and work well under pressure to meet deadlinesClear and systematic thinking that demonstrates good judgment and problem-solving competenciesStrong communication skills in multicultural, multi-lingual environmentsStrong ability to work effectively as part of a multicultural teamWell organized and structuredStrong analytical skillsStrong ability to provide high level support in project/program deliveryStrong ability to manage medium/large projects with budget managementStrategic thinking and leadership abilitiesStrong management, negotiation, and advocacy skillsHas autonomy for taking actions and decisionsStrong ability to interact with external stakeholdersLead and motivate a small team for optimum performance, supervising junior staffCommitment to a more inclusive and equitable R&D system. Strong analytical skills, with the ability to critically analyze, summarize, and apply complex information from internal and external sources. Excellent writing and communication skills, including the ability to produce and present advocacy materials to expert and general audiences. Strong project management skills. Other requirementsFluency in EnglishGood knowledge of Microsoft Suite

RESPONSIBILITIES

Specific Job Responsibilities Undertake research and analysis −including policy landscape analyses, stakeholders mapping, lessons learned by DNDi, etc. − and develop policy advocacy content and tools including white papers and policy briefs. Develop targeted advocacy strategies to influence policy change  Contribute to technical analyses of policies and practices impacting innovation and access to medical tools, and propose/ prioritize specific actions where DNDi, and partners could be influential. Coordinate specific advocacy activities/ campaigns engaging various stakeholders and manage projects and events. Provide matrix support to colleagues undertaking policy advocacy activities in various regions, with a particular focus (15%) on East Africa, African Union and Africa CDC and other DNDI departments (e.g.  funders managed by External Relations teams) Collaborate with the Communications teams to help develop and disseminate policy positions through opinion pieces, social media and other means. Contribute, through internal communications, to developing internal knowledge and the ability of colleagues to represent policy positions. Provide project management support to the Policy Advocacy Director and team.  General duties Coordinate policy advocacy team meetings Support documentation, tracking, and delivery of policy team deliverables and KPIs The above list of responsibilities is not exhaustive, and you may be required to undertake other responsibilities appropriate to your grade. This job description may be subject to review. Reporting line & InteractionsPolicy Advocacy Manager reports to the Policy Advocacy DirectorSecondary reporting line to the Africa Continental Lead & Office DirectorWork with Communication and External Relation teams, regional offices, and R&D teams at DNDi  Work extensively with external partners including civil society groups, thinktanks, government representatives, multilateral agencies’ experts, and policy leads in science, research, and public health institutions. The position has a representational role through the promotion of policy advocacy objectives and maintain productive relationships by projecting the image of a credible partner. 

REQUIRED SKILLS

Policy drafting and development, Compliance, Stakeholder communication, Business strategy, Reporting

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Diploma, Associate's degree