Political Economy Analysis Advisor

Background:

Creative Associates International is a dynamic, fast-growing global development firm that specializes in education, economic growth, democratic institutions and stabilization. Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has a field presence in more than 25 countries with a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, among others. Since its founding in 1977, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike. 

Position Summary:

Creative Associates seeks a Political Economy Analysis (PEA) Advisor for forthcoming donor-funded governance programs in West Africa.  The PEA Advisor will implement a “thinking and working politically” approach through political economy analysis. The PEA Advisor will conduct desk and field research that will inform the creation of an operating environment for flexible, context-driven programming approaches.

Reporting & Supervision:

The PEA Advisor reports to the Chief of Party (COP).

Expected Outcomes:

• Understanding of operating context, including institutions, power dynamics, and incentives.


• Implementation of “best-fit” activities, grounded in contextual realities.


• Rapid cycles of learning and adaptation throughout program implementation.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conduct desk and field research to develop deep understanding of on-the-ground conditions and local political economy dynamics;


• Conduct research to map the landscape of related donor-funded activities;


• Develop analysis of political economy to ground truth programming approaches and refine program’s theory of change;


• Create a program learning agenda; and


• Perform other duties as assigned by the COP.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (master’s or doctorate) in social sciences, conflict resolution, law, political science, international development, or a related field;


• At least five (5) years of demonstrated experience conducting in-depth political economy assessments or similar analysis in conflict-affected and fragile states with international organizations or research institutions;


• Demonstrated experience with a range of research approaches that support and/or complement political economy analysis, including qualitative and quantitative research, conflict assessment, and/or gender analysis;


• Experience integrating views of different stakeholders at multiple levels to inform policy and programming decisions and activities;


• Expertise in incorporating PEA learning into program design, monitoring, evaluation, indicator development, impact analysis, and collaborative learning;


• Knowledge of analytical tools employed in crisis-affected/fragile contexts; and


• Excellent oral and written communication skills in French and English.

Local and regional candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Position contingent upon donor funding.