Research Lead Consulting, Client Advisory, Thought-Leadership

We are a development and management consulting firm providing research, advisory and project management services to companies, governments and international organisations across Africa and other emerging markets. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join our team as the Research Lead. This role is pivotal in driving the success of our consulting projects by leading a dynamic team of Analysts, Associates, and Senior Consultants. The ideal candidate must possess a strong background in research methodologies, data skills, excellent writing, command of multidisciplinary topics [economics, industry, policy, tech, finance], strategic thinking, and team management.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategy & Team Leadership:

• Provide strategy and leadership to the Research team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Set clear team goals, monitor progress, and ensure the successful execution of projects.
• Mentor and develop team members, promoting continuous learning and professional growth.

2. Technical Research

• Serve as the Technical Lead for research assignments, projects and initiatives.
• Provide intellectual and technical leadership for research projects and initiatives
• Oversee the development and execution of research strategies that support client projects and contribute to thought-leadership initiatives.
• Lead initiatives to develop the firm’s Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) practice.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor landscapes to provide relevant and timely insights to clients.
• Lead, coordinate and manage collaborations with external consultants and research partners to provide solutions to specific client needs.

3. Client Advisory:

• Act as a key point of contact for clients, understanding their business objectives and advising on research-driven strategies.
• Translate complex research findings into actionable recommendations for clients, ensuring alignment with their strategic goals.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring client satisfaction and repeat business.

4. Business Development & Lead Generation

• Collaborate with consultants and other team members to develop tailored proposals and presentations for potential clients.
• Ensure proposals align with client needs and showcase the unique value proposition of our company.
• Identify and pursue potential leads through various channels, including online research, networking events, and industry publications.

5. Project Management:

• Oversee the end-to-end project management process, from scoping and planning to execution and delivery.
• Monitor project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation to ensure optimal project outcomes.

6. Quality Assurance:

• Implement rigorous quality assurance processes to maintain the highest standards of research and advisory services.
• Conduct regular reviews of research methodologies, findings, and deliverables to ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with client objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a research or research-driven advisory role with research/ management consulting firm, academia, think tanks, corporate bodies. Experienced Freelancers can apply.
• Minimum Bachelor's degree in Economics, Business Administration, Development & Public Policy, Statistics/Data Science or any other relevant field; Master's degree preferred.
• Advanced Proficiency in relevant research and data tools/software and methodologies. Clearly indicate these proficiencies in your application.
• Demonstrate knowledge, experience and curiosity in multidisciplinary topics: economics and business analysis, public policy and international development, finance and investment, Trade and global value chains, African regional integration, Financial Inclusion, infrastructure and public private partnerships, tech and digital economy, climate, energy transition and sustainability, start-ups and SME development etc.
• Proven experience in leading and managing high-performing teams. List examples of projects/assignments you have led/co-led/deputised or coordinated.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills with a keen attention to detail, complexity and nuance.
• Excellent technical & fluent writing skills is a must. Attach sample written works.
• Excellent verbal communication/speaking and presentation skills. You must be a confident and eloquent speaker with command of the English language.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain client relationships.