Recruitment notice: Director of Peace and Security

Call for applications –  Director of the  Peace and Security  Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute

Context and general description  :

The Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation works to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation through social entrepreneurship, science and technology, innovation, public health and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. Our areas of work include sustainable development, science and innovation, health, leadership, education, entrepreneurship, economics and public policy. The Denis and Lenora Foundation is a non-profit institution that brings together several departments, including the Nkafu Policy Institute, the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Center, communication and sustainable development programs.

The Nkafu Policy Institute is a Cameroonian think tank of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation that provides independent, in-depth and insightful policy recommendations that advance the Cameroonian economy and that of other sub-Saharan African countries. Its reputation is built on its independence, high-quality research and innovative policy recommendations.

The Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation is seeking an experienced Director for its Peace and Security Division to oversee the Peace and Security Unit at the Nkafu Policy Institute. This full-time position will be based in Yaoundé.

Roles and responsibilities :

Reporting to the Director of the Nkafu Policy Institute, the task, duties and responsibilities of the Director of the Peace and Security Division are to contribute substantially to the Peace and Security section of the Nkafu Policy Institute and to help develop capacity and skills ( academic and technical) necessary to achieve Nkafu’s strategic objectives. This includes:

• Promote and facilitate cutting-edge research in the field of peace and security;
• Ensure constant publication of research papers, articles, etc.
• Organize workshops and seminars for the presentation of research results;
• Write practical, policy-focused, concise and polished publications with rapid turnaround;
• Develop and implement commitments and research on national strategies for prevention and peacebuilding in conflict-affected areas;
• Work with key stakeholders to identify and develop innovative approaches to peace operations, linking them to prevention and peacebuilding programs;
• Raising awareness and engaging with stakeholders, through events, meetings, briefings and other actions.

• Oversee the research and analytical work of the Division on peace and security issues and ensure that the results produced by the Division maintain high quality standards; that the reports are clear, objective and based on complete data.
• Perform other tasks as needed

Qualifications and key skills required:

• Able to conduct independent research
• Must be a team player
• results oriented
• pay attention to details
• must have publications in internationally renowned scientific journals

Training and experience:

• Must hold a doctorate in one of the following disciplines (international relations, development, economics, political science, sociology)
• At least 5 years of professional experience in an academic institution, public or private sector
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to lead and motivate a small team would be an advantage

Application process

All applications will be completed ONLINE using the  application portal  . To complete your application, you will need:

• A one-page cover letter stating your research areas of interest (in PDF)
• A curriculum vitae/CV (in PDF)
• A professional photo
• A previously written work (published or unpublished) demonstrating the candidate’s abilities (in PDF)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis (beginning November 18, 2023) and will continue until the position is filled. The deadline for receipt of applications is January 5, 2024. All applications must be submitted via the  online portal below.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to  apply.