We are seeking a highly motivated professional to oversee and execute key operational duties, including the management of daily workflows, adherence to organizational policies, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive efficiency. The ideal candidate will ensure compliance with industry regulations, maintain accurate records, and provide timely reports to senior leadership. Responsibilities also encompass identifying process improvements, troubleshooting operational challenges, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous enhancement. Strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for success in this role.
We specialize in developing comprehensive research plans and designing study frameworks to ensure precise data collection and meaningful analysis. Our team collaborates to establish clear objectives, methodologies, and timelines tailored to project requirements. Through strategic planning, we identify key variables, select appropriate tools, and implement robust data collection processes. Additionally, we prioritize ethical considerations, compliance with regulations, and alignment with organizational goals to enhance research integrity and impact.
As the central research project lead for the four-year SRH randomized controlled trial (RCT) program, you will define the strategic vision and oversee the execution of all research activities to align with project goals, the established study protocol, IMPACT research cycle best practices, and donor stipulations.
Lead the charge in designing and refining annual data collection cycles, encompassing both quantitative elements—such as survey-based data—and qualitative components, including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Ensure adherence to methodological precision and consistency with the randomized controlled trial framework across all participating country contexts.
Oversee the adaptation of data collection tools—including quantitative questionnaires and qualitative guides—for each round to ensure contextual relevance, accurate translation, and rigorous piloting prior to deployment in Somalia and South Sudan.
Before commencing each data collection round, secure validation from IMPACT HQ and the appropriate ethics bodies for all research designs, tools, and protocols.
Conduct comprehensive research and oversee its practical implementation to ensure alignment with organizational objectives. Analyze data, identify key insights, and develop actionable strategies to drive informed decision-making. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate findings into executable plans, monitor progress, and assess outcomes for continuous improvement.
Deliver strategic direction and technical expertise to in-country teams in Somalia and South Sudan, which function as the key data collection leaders in their respective settings, while offering guidance on enumerator recruitment and training, field supervision protocols, and quality assurance measures.
Design and implement robust quality assurance frameworks tailored to each data collection round, incorporating back-check protocols, data audit procedures, and real-time monitoring of data quality indicators to uphold uniform standards across both countries.
Design and deliver enumerator training programs for each data collection phase in close collaboration with the in-country teams, ensuring all enumerators are thoroughly prepared to accurately administer quantitative surveys and qualitative data collection instruments in strict adherence to the study protocol.
Ensure strict adherence to IMPACT Data Management Guidelines, relevant data protection policies, and the ethical standards outlined in the study protocol during all stages of data collection, storage, and management.
Monitor data collection activities across both countries, swiftly detecting and addressing any challenges or methodological inconsistencies, and escalating unresolved issues to the line manager and IMPACT HQ as necessary.
We are seeking a skilled professional to analyze data meticulously and prepare comprehensive product drafts. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in interpreting complex datasets, identifying key trends, and translating insights into actionable recommendations. Proficiency in utilizing data analysis tools, such as SQL, Python, or R, is essential, along with strong written communication skills to articulate findings clearly. Responsibilities include collecting, processing, and visualizing data, as well as drafting detailed product documents that align with strategic business objectives.
Offer comprehensive review and support for analyses and deliverables prepared by our research partner, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and alignment with established standards.
Beyond the randomized controlled trial (RCT) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) initiatives, the role involves performing specialized, on-demand analysis and providing operational assistance to missions in South Sudan and Somalia, as well as contributing to broader regional assessments across the Horn of Africa and East Africa.
The role focuses on cultivating and nurturing relationships with donors and partners to secure vital support for organizational growth. Responsibilities include developing tailored engagement strategies, coordinating outreach initiatives, and maintaining ongoing communication to ensure alignment with fundraising and partnership objectives. The position requires strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to foster long-term collaborations while tracking engagement metrics to assess effectiveness.
Act as the main point of contact for IMPACT with the donor, delivering consistent updates regarding research advancements, completed milestones, obstacles faced, and insights gained throughout both country programs.
Serve as the central hub for donor reports and research updates, guaranteeing their precision, clarity, and timely submission while accurately representing the contributions of the in-country teams in Somalia and South Sudan.
Conduct periodic project review sessions with the donor and essential partners, compiling presentations and concise briefing documents to foster informed strategic discussions regarding emerging insights, study modifications, and programmatic implications.
Develop and sustain robust collaborative partnerships with implementing partners across Somalia and South Sudan, guaranteeing that research initiatives are seamlessly aligned with partner programs and that insights are disseminated and applied strategically.
We are seeking to advance knowledge creation and professional development within our organization. This role involves fostering a culture of continuous learning, driving research initiatives, and ensuring that insights generated are applied to enhance operational excellence. Candidates must demonstrate expertise in knowledge management, a strong commitment to professional growth, and the ability to translate complex information into actionable strategies. Responsibilities include developing learning frameworks, overseeing research projects, and collaborating with teams to integrate new knowledge into practice. Ideal candidates will have a proven track record in knowledge dissemination, mentorship, and the application of insights to improve performance and innovation.
Document lessons learned from the research program, focusing on Age-related sensitivities, RCT implementation in fragile contexts, mixed-methods approaches, and longitudinal data collection, to enhance IMPACT’s broader knowledge base.
Ensure thorough documentation and communication of all external engagements to the line manager and relevant colleagues.
Effective oversight of project lifecycles is essential, requiring meticulous planning, execution, and monitoring from initiation to completion. This involves defining clear objectives, allocating resources efficiently, and ensuring alignment with strategic goals. Regular progress assessments and risk evaluations are critical to maintaining timeline adherence and budget control. Stakeholder communication must remain transparent and consistent to foster collaboration and address any concerns promptly. Continuous improvement through post-project reviews is also necessary to refine methodologies and enhance future outcomes.
Ensure adherence to project cycle management protocols throughout every stage—planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting.
Monitor deliverables and project timelines for all research outputs and data collection phases in both countries, promptly escalating any potential delivery risks to the line manager.
Craft narrative portions of donor reports that highlight research activities and key findings.
Engage in project kick-off, review, and completion meetings as needed.
Assists with additional duties as delegated by the line manager, ensuring all requests are prioritized and executed in accordance with established protocols and timelines.
Ensuring the safeguarding and integrity of sensitive information is of paramount importance, requiring meticulous adherence to established protocols and industry standards for data confidentiality and protection. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of data security principles, along with the ability to implement robust measures to prevent unauthorized access, breaches, or misuse of confidential data. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in risk assessment, encryption techniques, and compliance with relevant data protection regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA. Additionally, the position involves regular audits, monitoring systems for potential vulnerabilities, and fostering a culture of security awareness among stakeholders.
The SAO will uphold the highest standards of confidentiality regarding all collected data and associated processes, guaranteeing full adherence to IMPACT’s data protection policy, relevant research ethics guidelines, and established standard operating procedures. They will proactively implement safeguards to prevent the unauthorized disclosure of any information or data belonging to IMPACT, its partners, or gathered during their assignment with IMPACT.
REQUIREMENTS
Essential
Ideal candidates will possess outstanding academic credentials, ideally holding a Master’s degree in Public Health, Social Science, Development Studies, or a closely aligned field.
Seeking candidates with a minimum of four years of professional experience in humanitarian or development research or programming, ideally encompassing work in Somalia and/or South Sudan. Demonstrated expertise in overseeing multi-year, multi-country research initiatives is highly desirable.
Experienced professionals must possess proven expertise in sexual and reproductive health within humanitarian or fragile settings, with a strong emphasis on maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence interventions.
Proven expertise in designing and overseeing mixed-methods research cycles within humanitarian or resource-constrained environments is essential. A strong preference exists for hands-on experience in the design and execution of randomized control trials (RCTs). Additionally, familiarity with longitudinal study frameworks and multiphase data collection methodologies is highly advantageous.
Proven proficiency in both written and verbal English, with a track record of delivering meticulously researched reports, donor communications, policy briefs, and presentations tailored to varied audiences, including specialists and general stakeholders.
Demonstrated capability to operate autonomously and guide remote, in-country research teams with leadership and mentorship, while effectively managing intricate, multi-stakeholder research initiatives.
Proven capability to navigate and succeed in multicultural settings, including challenging security conditions. Extensive background collaborating with local research teams and community stakeholders across various environments.
Proficiency in designing both quantitative and qualitative data collection instruments using KoboCollect, OK, or comparable platforms is essential.
Desirable
Proficiency in Somalia and/or South Sudan, with a strong grasp of the humanitarian coordination framework and the roles of prominent stakeholders in these environments, is essential.
Researchers with prior involvement in studies or oversight of research involving vulnerable groups—such as displaced individuals, women and girls, and adolescents—are sought, along with a strong grasp of ethical guidelines applicable to humanitarian research contexts.
Engaging with donors regarding research programs entails preparing comprehensive reports and actively participating in technical review meetings.
A robust background in applied statistics and hands-on experience in constructing sample frames are essential for this role.
We offer a competitive compensation package along with a comprehensive benefits program designed to support your professional and personal well-being. The role provides a base salary commensurate with experience, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for career advancement. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan with company matching contributions, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements. Additional perks may include tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, and employee discounts.
This role offers a monthly salary ranging from 2,580 to 2,640 CHF (gross, before taxes), alongside a living stipend of 300 USD. Notably, IMPACT adheres to a structured salary framework, with remuneration determined by the position’s grade and the employee’s educational background. Furthermore, a location-based adjustment for security and/or isolation may be applied, acknowledging the challenging living and working conditions in certain duty stations.
Accommodation will be arranged in the guesthouse for short-term assignments, while a housing allowance will be granted for longer-term contracts.
Enrollment includes participation in a Swiss private pension fund (Swiss Life, representing approximately 9.975% of the employee’s gross salary), comprehensive health insurance coverage, life insurance benefits, and repatriation assistance.
Flight tickets and visa fees are provided biannually, with all in-country travel expenses and professional costs fully reimbursed.
Responsibilities include managing the transportation of luggage weighing between 20 and 100 kilograms, with the specific weight determined by the duration of the contract, and ensuring coverage through luggage and personal property insurance.
You will receive 36 days of annual leave each year, along with all public holidays observed in the country of assignment, and additional family or compassionate leave as warranted.
The assignment commences with a three-day induction session at IMPACT Initiatives’ Geneva headquarters, followed by a one-week pre-departure training program at ACTED’s Paris headquarters, which incorporates a four-day in-situ security training component.
IMPACT places a strong emphasis on the psychological well-being of its employees, offering health insurance that includes coverage for up to $1,000 annually in expenses related to psychosocial counseling.
You must enroll in the IMPACT Initiatives Research Foundational Learning Program within the first three months of your employment contract.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
4 years
