We are seeking a detail-oriented professional to oversee a wide range of operational duties, ensuring adherence to established protocols and efficiency in daily processes. The ideal candidate will manage project timelines, coordinate cross-functional teams, and maintain accurate records to support organizational objectives. Responsibilities include identifying process improvements, mitigating risks, and fostering collaborative work environments to enhance productivity. Additionally, the role demands strong analytical skills, proficiency in relevant software tools, and the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels. Prior experience in a similar capacity and a commitment to continuous learning are essential for success in this position.
We focus on meticulous research planning and strategic design, ensuring comprehensive data collection and analysis to drive informed decision-making. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in relevant methodologies, and the ability to develop structured research frameworks. Responsibilities include defining research objectives, designing study protocols, and overseeing data collection processes. Additionally, the role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to integrate findings into actionable insights and strategic initiatives.
As the central research project leader for the four-year Sexual and Reproductive Health Randomized Controlled Trial (SRH RCT) program, you will provide high-level strategic guidance while overseeing the execution of all research activities to ensure alignment with project goals, the approved study protocol, IMPACT research cycle standards, and donor specifications.
Oversee the creation and enhancement of annual data collection cycles, integrating quantitative methods (survey instruments) with qualitative approaches (in-depth interviews and focus group discussions), while maintaining methodological precision and alignment with the RCT framework in both country settings.
Responsible for adapting data collection tools—including quantitative questionnaires and qualitative guides—for each round to ensure contextual relevance, accurate translation, and successful piloting prior to deployment in Somalia and South Sudan.
Prior to the initiation of every data collection cycle, it is essential to obtain formal validation from IMPACT HQ and pertinent ethics committees for all research designs, methodologies, and protocols.
Conducts the practical application of research findings to develop effective solutions and strategies within the organization.
Offer strategic direction and technical expertise to in-country teams operating in Somalia and South Sudan, where they function as the primary leads for data collection. Provide guidance on enumerator recruitment and training, establish field supervision protocols, and implement quality assurance systems to ensure accuracy and reliability in data collection efforts.
Our responsibility involves designing and implementing robust, end-to-end quality assurance frameworks tailored to each data collection cycle. These frameworks encompass back-check protocols, systematic data audit procedures, and continuous real-time monitoring of key data quality indicators, guaranteeing uniform standards across both countries.
Design and deliver enumerator training programs for every data collection phase in close collaboration with in-country teams, guaranteeing all enumerators are thoroughly prepared to administer quantitative surveys and qualitative data collection instruments while strictly adhering to the study protocol.
Ensure that all data is collected, stored, and managed in compliance with the IMPACT Data Management Guidelines, relevant data protection policies, and the ethical standards outlined in the study protocol.
Monitor data collection activities in both countries, proactively identifying and addressing any challenges or deviations in methodology, and escalating unresolved issues to the line manager and IMPACT HQ as necessary.
We are seeking a skilled professional to perform data analysis and develop product drafts. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data sets. Responsibilities include analyzing market trends, compiling reports, and creating drafts for new product proposals. Proficiency in data visualization tools and statistical analysis software is required, as well as experience in product development. The role demands meticulous attention to detail and the capacity to deliver high-quality drafts within tight deadlines.
Offer critical evaluation and assistance in refining analyses and deliverables prepared by our research partner.
In addition to the RCT and Refocused project, you will perform customized analyses and provide assistance to the South Sudan and Somalia missions, as well as contribute to strengthening regional analysis and support across the Horn of Africa and East Africa.
We cultivate and nurture meaningful relationships with donors and partners to strengthen organizational support and collaboration. This role involves strategically engaging with key stakeholders, identifying opportunities for partnership, and ensuring their needs are met to foster long-term commitment. Responsibilities include organizing engagement activities, maintaining open communication channels, and developing tailored approaches to meet their unique interests and goals. Additionally, the position requires tracking interactions, analyzing feedback, and reporting on engagement metrics to inform strategic decision-making. Strong interpersonal skills, a proactive mindset, and the ability to build trust are essential for success in this role.
Act as the main IMPACT contact for the donor, delivering consistent updates regarding research advancements, completed milestones, obstacles faced, and insights gained throughout both country programs.
Serve as the primary point of contact for donor reports and research updates, guaranteeing their precision, clarity, and timely submission while accurately representing the contributions of both the Somalia and South Sudan in-country teams.
Conduct routine project review meetings in collaboration with the donor and key stakeholders, developing and delivering presentations and supporting documentation to foster strategic discussions on preliminary 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 integrated with partner-driven programming and that insights are shared and applied strategically.
Knowledge generation and learning involve the continuous acquisition, analysis, and dissemination of insights to drive innovation and informed decision-making across the organization. This role demands a commitment to fostering a culture of curiosity and collaboration, ensuring that information is effectively leveraged to enhance performance and strategic outcomes. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, the ability to interpret complex data, and a proactive approach to identifying emerging trends. Responsibilities include conducting research, synthesizing findings into actionable recommendations, and implementing learning initiatives that support organizational growth and adaptability.
Document insights gained from the research program, with particular emphasis on sexual and reproductive health sensitivities, the execution of randomized controlled trials in unstable environments, the integration of mixed-methods research strategies, and the long-term collection of data, thereby enriching IMPACT’s comprehensive knowledge repository.
All external engagement must be thoroughly documented and promptly communicated to the line manager as well as relevant colleagues.
Manages the full spectrum of project cycle activities, ensuring adherence to established timelines, budgets, and deliverables. Oversees planning, execution, monitoring, and closure phases to maintain alignment with strategic objectives and stakeholder expectations. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to identify risks, allocate resources efficiently, and implement corrective measures when necessary. Requires proficiency in project management methodologies, strong analytical skills, and the ability to communicate progress and challenges clearly to leadership and team members. Experience with project tracking tools and a track record of successfully delivering projects within scope are essential.
Ensure strict adherence to project cycle management protocols throughout every stage, encompassing planning, execution, oversight, and documentation.
Monitor progress and ensure adherence to deadlines for all research deliverables and data collection phases in both countries, promptly escalating any potential risks to delivery to the relevant line manager.
Prepare narrative sections for donor reports, detailing research activities and findings to enhance donor engagement and transparency.
Engage in project initiation, progress review, and concluding meetings as necessary to ensure alignment and successful delivery.
Other tasks as requested by the line manager.
Ensuring the safeguarding and security of sensitive information is paramount, requiring strict adherence to confidentiality protocols and robust protective measures. This role involves implementing and maintaining comprehensive data protection strategies to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, or breaches, thereby upholding organizational integrity and regulatory compliance. Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of data privacy laws, encryption techniques, and risk management frameworks to effectively mitigate potential threats and vulnerabilities.
The Senior Assessment Officer (SAO) must uphold rigorous confidentiality standards for all data under their management, strictly adhering to IMPACT’s data protection policy, research ethics guidelines, and established standard operating procedures. They will proactively implement safeguards to prevent any unauthorized disclosure of information or data belonging to IMPACT, its partners, or obtained during the course of their assignment.
REQUIREMENTS
Essential
Strong academic credentials, ideally encompassing a Master’s degree in Public Health, Social Science, Development Studies, or a closely related field, are required.
Seeking candidates with a minimum of four years of professional experience in humanitarian or development research and programming, ideally including direct involvement in Somalia and/or South Sudan. Experience overseeing multi-year, cross-country research initiatives is particularly advantageous.
Proven expertise in sexual and reproductive health within humanitarian or fragile settings, encompassing maternal health, family planning, and gender-based violence interventions.
Experience in designing and overseeing mixed-methods research cycles within humanitarian or resource-constrained environments is essential. Candidates with a background in randomized control trial (RCT) design and execution will be given preference, while expertise in longitudinal study designs and multiphase data collection is particularly advantageous.
Proven mastery of both written and verbal English, with a strong track record of crafting meticulously researched reports, donor progress updates, strategic briefs, and compelling presentations tailored to audiences with varying levels of technical expertise.
Demonstrated capacity to operate autonomously while offering guidance and mentorship to remote in-country research teams, along with the ability to oversee intricate, multi-stakeholder research initiatives.
Demonstrates adeptness in navigating and thriving within multicultural contexts, even amid intricate security challenges. Skilled in collaborating with local research teams and engaging community stakeholders across varied environments.
Proficiency in crafting both quantitative and qualitative data collection instruments using KoboCollect, OK, or comparable platforms is essential.
Desirable
Professional experience in Somalia and/or South Sudan, with a strong working knowledge of the humanitarian coordination framework and influential stakeholders in both settings.
Experience in leading or participating in research initiatives involving vulnerable groups such as displaced individuals, women, girls, and adolescents, along with a strong grasp of ethical research principles applicable in humanitarian contexts.
Engagement with donors regarding research programs is required, encompassing report preparation and involvement in technical review meetings.
Experienced in applied statistics with a proven track record in the development of sample frames.
We offer a comprehensive compensation package along with a robust benefits program designed to support your professional growth and personal well-being. This includes a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a range of health and wellness benefits such as medical, dental, and vision insurance. Additionally, we provide retirement savings plans with company matching, paid time off for vacation and holidays, and flexible spending accounts. Professional development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement and access to training programs, are also available to help advance your career.
This role offers a monthly salary ranging from 2,580 to 2,640 CHF (gross before tax), along with a fixed living allowance of 300 USD. Please note that IMPACT adheres to a structured salary framework, where compensation is determined by the position’s grade and the employee’s educational background. Additionally, a location-based security and/or isolation adjustment may be applied to acknowledge the challenging living and working conditions in certain duty stations, which differ significantly from those in more favorable locations.
Accommodation is either offered in the guesthouse or a housing allowance is granted for extended-term agreements.
Participation in a Swiss private pension scheme (Swiss Life, approximately 9.975% of the employee’s gross salary), comprehensive health coverage, life insurance, and repatriation assistance are included as part of the benefits package.
Flight tickets and visa fees are provided every six months, with full reimbursement for all in-country travel expenses and professional costs.
Supporting luggage transportation services entails managing loads ranging from 20 to 100 kilograms, with the precise weight contingent upon the duration of the contractual agreement, and includes comprehensive insurance coverage for both luggage and personal belongings.
Annually, you will receive 36 calendar days of paid leave, in addition to all recognized public holidays for the country where you are assigned. Situations involving family or compassionate needs will also be accommodated with appropriate leave provisions.
Our three-day predeparture induction will take place at IMPACT Initiatives’ headquarters in Geneva, followed by a week-long pre-departure training program hosted at Acted’s headquarters in Paris. This training phase includes an intensive four-day in situ security training component.
IMPACT places significant emphasis on ensuring the psychological well-being of its employees. In addition to comprehensive health coverage, the benefits package includes financial support for up to 1000 per year toward professional psychosocial counseling services.
To ensure successful integration, the candidate must enroll in the IMPACT Initiatives Research Foundational Learning Program within the first three months of the contract.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
4 years
