Switzerland: Head of Strategy and Planning
Country: Switzerland
Closing date: 13 Sep 2013
The Africa Progress Panel (APP) consists of a group of distinguished individuals, chaired by Kofi Annan, whose objective is to track and encourage progress in Africa and assess opportunities and threats to Africa’s development. The Panel underscores the shared responsibility between African leaders and their international partners for sustaining progress.
The APP Foundation, a not-for-profit Foundation under Swiss law, consists of a Board and a Geneva-based Secretariat. The Secretariat supports the activities of the Chair and Panel members in their interactions with Heads of State, policy makers, African organizations including the AU, NEPAD, key global bodies including the G8/20, and global leaders to influence high-level policy decisions.
The Secretariat is looking for a Head of Strategy and Planning who will report to the APP Executive Director; guide and assist the Policy and Communications Teams. S/he will work closely with the Senior Advisor (based in Nairobi), APP Head of Communications and other APP staff and consultants, and liaise with colleagues in other relevant African and global organizations.
Core tasks and responsibilities
- Develop, adjust and execute a strategy for policy-change and advocacy based on the ambitions and directions set by the Panel and its Chair.
- Guide and assist the Head of Communications and the communication team in setting and executing communications plans that support the advocacy strategy and the work of the Panel.
- Provide concrete options for action, and propose events and other activities to achieve the stated advocacy goals, and assist in organizing such events/activities.
- Manage and support the drafting of articles, speeches and talking points for the Panel Chair, the other Panel members, and the Executive Director.
- Lead APP’s monitoring and evaluation program.
- Perform other duties as may be required.
Competencies required
- Advanced degree in international relations, economics, development, or a related discipline.
- At least 15 years professional experience in positions of responsibility and good track record of managing staff.
- Deep understanding of communication strategies, an ability to build effective global communication structures, and a network of communication contacts globally.
- Acute political understanding of policy processes and policy change.
- Excellent knowledge of Africa, the development challenges faced by the continent, and global geopolitics affecting Africa.
- Ability to analyse complex political landscapes and assess change opportunities.
- Extensive knowledge of the international finance and aid system.
- Diplomatic skills and experience of working with very senior figures in government and the private sector.
- Ability to take initiative while working within a team.
- Attention to detail and to planning ahead.
- Ability to drive projects from inception to completion.
- Excellent communication and writing skills.
- Excellent networking ability and willingness to travel.
- Fluent English and a good knowledge of French.
Compensation is competitive and commensurate with skills and experience. Remuneration is subject to Swiss social charges and taxable under Swiss/Geneva law.
How to apply:
All applicants must submit:- a one page cover letter- a CV- the names and contact details of three referees
