Overview
The Policy Advocacy Manager role carries global accountability (75%), encompassing the development and execution of targeted advocacy strategies, as well as contributing to the formulation of the broader global advocacy framework. This position involves conducting research and analysis, crafting policy advocacy materials and resources, offering matrix support to colleagues engaged in regional policy advocacy efforts, and providing strategic administrative assistance to the Director of Policy Advocacy. Additionally, 15% of the role is dedicated to supporting key components of DND’s African regional strategy. The incumbent will play a pivotal role in advancing DND’s objectives by documenting lessons learned, fostering stakeholder engagement, cultivating champions, and driving policy initiatives to champion the adoption of progressive R&D policies that address the needs of neglected patient populations.
Responsibilities
We are seeking a highly motivated professional to oversee and execute a range of critical duties within our organization. Key responsibilities include managing daily operations, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and fostering collaboration across teams to achieve strategic objectives. The role demands strong analytical skills for data-driven decision-making, along with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Additionally, the position requires effective communication to liaise with stakeholders, report progress, and address operational challenges promptly. Candidates must possess prior experience in a similar role, along with proficiency in relevant software tools to streamline workflows and enhance productivity.
Conduct comprehensive research and analysis, such as examining the policy landscape, mapping stakeholders, and extracting lessons learned by DND, and create advocacy materials and resources—including white papers and policy briefs—to support policy initiatives.
Craft strategic advocacy initiatives aimed at driving meaningful policy transformations.
Collaborate on comprehensive technical assessments of policies and practices that influence innovation and the accessibility of medical tools, identifying strategic opportunities where DND and its partners can drive meaningful impact.
Coordinate advocacy campaigns and initiatives, engaging diverse stakeholders while overseeing project execution and event management.
Deliver matrix support to colleagues engaged in policy advocacy initiatives across multiple regions, allocating approximately 15% of efforts to East Africa, the African Union, Africa CDC, and other DND departments, including funders overseen by External Relations teams.
Work collaboratively with the Communications teams to craft and distribute policy positions through opinion pieces, social media, and other strategic channels.
Enhance internal knowledge and strengthen colleagues’ capacity to advocate for policy positions by creating and disseminating informative communications within the organization.
Offer comprehensive project management assistance to the Policy Advocacy Director and their team, ensuring seamless coordination and execution of initiatives.
General duties
Devise and execute agendas for policy advocacy team gatherings to ensure productive discussions and alignment with strategic objectives.
The policy team relies on this role to develop and maintain comprehensive support documentation, meticulously track progress against established KPIs, and ensure timely delivery of all assigned deliverables.
The duties outlined above are not exhaustive, and additional responsibilities commensurate with the role’s level may be assigned. This position description remains subject to periodic review.
Reporting line & Interactions
The Policy Advocacy Manager serves as a key role within the organization, operating under the direct supervision of the Policy Advocacy Director.
Report directly to the Africa Continental Lead and Office Director as part of your secondary reporting structure.
Collaborate closely with the Communications and External Relations teams, regional offices, and Research & Development teams at DND to align on strategic initiatives and foster cohesive cross-functional partnerships.
Collaborate closely with a diverse range of external stakeholders, such as civil society organizations, think tanks, government officials, experts from multilateral agencies, and policy experts in science, research, and public health institutions.
This role involves advancing policy advocacy goals while cultivating and sustaining strong partnerships, ensuring the organization is perceived as a reliable and credible ally.
Seeking candidates with a proven track record in their field, complemented by a strong educational background. Applicants should possess relevant work experience and formal qualifications, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of the role. Educational attainment, whether through degrees, certifications, or specialized training, is essential to fulfilling the position’s requirements and advancing in this career path.
With a minimum of six years of pertinent experience, including at least four years in a Senior Officer capacity, candidates are expected to meet this requirement.
Demonstrated expertise in policy analysis, ideally within public health, coupled with a strong understanding of global health, development, or science policy frameworks.
Demonstrated expertise in designing and executing impactful advocacy strategies and campaigns, encompassing initiatives aimed at enhancing awareness among both internal and external stakeholders.
Proficiency in policy advocacy across the African continent is essential, with a preferred background in East African policy landscapes.
Demonstrates a strong aptitude for collaboration within cross-functional teams and matrix organizational frameworks.
Highly preferred is prior experience in both public and private sector settings.
A graduate degree—or its equivalent in experience—at the master’s level in international relations, public health, public affairs, or a related discipline is required. Candidates may also qualify through substantial applied work in community, national, or global advocacy, particularly grassroots engagement that demonstrates mastery-level proficiency.
Proficient in a variety of technical and interpersonal proficiencies, with a strong emphasis on both hard and soft skills tailored to the role. Demonstrates expertise in critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical reasoning to navigate complex challenges effectively. Exhibits exceptional communication abilities, fostering collaboration and clarity in team settings. Maintains a commitment to continuous learning, staying abreast of industry trends and best practices. Possesses adaptability to evolving demands and a proactive approach to professional development. Meets or exceeds all specified educational, experiential, and certification requirements essential for optimal performance.
Demonstrates exceptional skill in exercising independent judgment, managing competing priorities, juggling multiple tasks simultaneously, and thriving in high-pressure environments to consistently meet tight deadlines.
Clear and logical reasoning, coupled with sound judgment and strong problem-solving abilities, is essential.
Exceptional proficiency in communication is required to effectively collaborate across diverse, multicultural, and multilingual settings.
Demonstrates exceptional skill in collaborating within diverse, multicultural team environments.
Highly organized and methodically structured, with a keen attention to detail and a systematic approach to managing tasks and priorities.
Proven ability to analyze complex data and derive actionable insights efficiently.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in delivering advanced-level support for project and program execution. Exhibits a robust capacity to contribute meaningfully to the successful completion of initiatives through expert guidance and strategic assistance.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in overseeing medium to large-scale projects while effectively managing allocated budgets to ensure financial efficiency and project success.
Strategic thinking and leadership competencies are essential for this role. Candidates must demonstrate a capacity to envision long-term objectives, foster alignment across teams, and drive organizational growth through informed decision-making. The position requires the ability to inspire and guide cross-functional teams toward achieving ambitious goals while navigating complex challenges with adaptability and foresight. Strong interpersonal skills and the capability to communicate a compelling vision are equally critical for success in this dynamic environment.
Demonstrates exceptional leadership capabilities, adeptness in negotiation strategies, and a persuasive advocacy approach.
Has autonomy for taking actions and decisions
Capable of building and maintaining effective relationships with external stakeholders with a high degree of professionalism and diplomacy.
Directly supervise and mentor a compact team to drive peak productivity while guiding junior employees through their roles and responsibilities.
Commitment to a more inclusive and equitable R&D system.
Demonstrated proficiency in analytical reasoning, coupled with the capacity to meticulously evaluate, distill, and leverage intricate data from both internal and external origins.
Exceptional writing and communication abilities, with proficiency in developing and delivering advocacy materials tailored to both specialized and lay audiences.
Proven ability to effectively manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring timely completion and adherence to established timelines and budgets. Demonstrates expertise in coordinating teams, allocating resources, and mitigating risks to achieve project objectives.
Other requirements
Fluent proficiency in English is required.
Proficient in utilizing Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, with a strong command of their core functionalities and advanced features to enhance productivity and collaboration.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
6 years
