Executive Director at The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC)

 About The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC)

The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), established in 1988 is a public not-for-profit organization devoted to the advancement of economic policy research and training. AERC's mission is to strengthen local capacity for conducting independent, rigorous inquiry into the problems facing the management of economies in sub-Saharan Africa. That mission rests on two basic premises. First, that development is more likely to occur where there is sustained sound management of the economy. Second, that such management is more likely to happen where there is an active, well-informed group of locally based professional economists to conduct policy-relevant research. Specifically, then, AERC intends to: Enhance the capacity of locally based researchers to conduct policy-relevant economic inquiry, Promote the retention of such capacity, and Encourage its application in the policy context. Donor governments, private foundations, and African and international organizations support the AERC programme, which has two primary components: research and training. The AERC Research Programme uses a flexible approach towards improving the technical skills of local researchers, allowing for regional determination of research priorities and strengthening national institutions concerned with economic policy research. The programme also fosters closer ties between researchers and policy makers. The Training Programme supports both master's and doctoral level studies in economics and helps improve the capacities of departments of economics in public universities across the continent. A comprehensive communications and outreach strategy encourages the application of AERC products to economic policy making.

AERC seeks a visionary Executive Director to lead efforts to achieve AERC’s mission, drive strategic development, lead strategic fundraising and meet annual objectives, while supporting the Board. The Executive Director has overall responsibility for implementing strategic goals, resource management and compliance. They also oversee program implementation, ensures effective communication of results, maintain a positive organizational profile and oversee financial management in a manner that promotes a culture of value-for-money culture.

Key dimensions of the role

Based in Kenya, the Executive Director’s responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

Direction of the Consortium’s Overall Operations and Governance:

Support governance bodies and work closely with their chairs for effective governance.

Lead mission pursuit, develop strategic plans, and establish program objectives.

Monitor progress and oversee evaluations in agreement with the Board and Programme Committee.

Manage the Secretariat, ensure legal compliance, and implement the approved annual Program of Work and Budget.

Develop funding strategies, raise funds, maintain effective communication with network members, and establish strategic partnerships.

Programmes Management:

Coordinate the preparation of annual Programs of Work for Board approval.

Facilitate wide distribution of annual AERC activity reports.

Approve grants and awards within procedures.

Administer grants appropriately and initiate studies or consultancies as needed.

Recommend candidates for appointments and facilitate Programme Committee meetings.

Financial Management and Administration:

Oversee the preparation of the annual Program of Work and Budget for Board approval.

Monitor revenue and expenditures, reporting adjustments.

Serve as the principal authorizing officer for funds disbursement.

Enforce adherence to financial controls and “value for money” principles.

Skills and experience

The desired candidate will have but not limited to:

PhD in Economics with extensive Sub-Saharan African research, management, and teaching experience.

At least 15 years relevant experience, which includes at least 5 years’ experience working in Sub- Saharan Africa and 5 years leading a comparable institution.

In-depth understanding of African policy issues, along with expertise in resource mobilization, international collaboration, and engagement with senior decision-makers.

Strong leadership and management, including presentation and negotiation skills.

Proficiency in enhancing AERC’s global institutional profile, exceptional networking, communication, and interpersonal abilities.

Proficient in corporate governance, adept at working under pressure, and highly willing to travel.

Excellent written and spoken English. Ability to work in French an asset.

Method of Application

Interested and qualified? Go to The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) on aercafrica.org to apply