AERC, established in 1988, was founded from the need to bridge the gap between economic policy and research in sub-Saharan Africa. This organization has since grown into a prominent institution, seamlessly amalgamating top-tier economic research, postgraduate training, and effective policy outreach.
About the role
AERC seeks a Director of Training to lead and strategically oversee its training programs, ensuring their quality and relevance in the context of African economic and policy needs. The role involves managing Master's and Doctoral level training in economics and applied/agricultural economics, as well as handling resource mobilization, donor relations, and compliance with monitoring and evaluation requirements. The Director will contribute to overall management and collaboration within the Senior Management Team, promoting teamwork and performance standards across the Secretariat.
Key dimensions of the role
Based in Kenya, the Director of Training’s responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:
Training Programme Management:
- Lead the strategic development of Training Programs, including Collaborative Masters and PhD initiatives.
- Innovate training through workshops, curricular improvements, and capacity building for diverse groups.
- Adapt programs based on shifts in higher education and labor markets, maintaining dynamic content.
Liaison with AERC Network and Training Institutions:
- Foster connections with African and international researchers, academics, and institutions for program relevance.
- Promote collaboration among African institutions, scholars, and universities in economics research and training.
- Coordinate with parallel graduate programs in Nigeria and Francophone Africa while facilitating AERC Program Committee work.
Fundraising, Management, and Coordination:
- Develop targeted fundraising proposals for the Training Program aligned with the strategic plan.
- Secure ample funding and maintain a robust pipeline for grant awards.
- Contribute to resource mobilization strategy, collaborating with the Resource Mobilization and Donor Relations Unit.
Secondary Responsibilities:
- Engage in outreach activities and coordinate with the Communications Department.
- Oversee special training-related projects, such as short-term training and databases for specific training needs, like DAKMAH, Rutgers, IFAD, and climate change programs.
Skills and Experience
The desired candidate will have but not limited to:
- PhD in Economics with a record of published research and experience in African graduate training.
- Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, including university-level management and teaching.
- Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and financial management skills.
- Proficiency in information technology, including computerized management systems and virtual learning.
- Effective communication, networking, and negotiation abilities, along with exceptional report writing and presentation skills.
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