Job Title: Head of Youth
Department: Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI)
Reports to: Director / Deputy Director
Supervises: Senior Programme Officers, Programme Officers and Programme Assistants
JOB PURPOSE
The Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute’s (WYPSI) mission is to accelerate the full implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda across Africa and beyond. The Head of Youth will lead strategic efforts, provide dynamic leadership, and deliver high-quality programme support services to facilitate the effective implementation of YPS-focused activities.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership:
Lead the development and implementation of youth-responsive programmes and strategies under the YPS agenda within the African context and beyond.
Provide visionary leadership to ensure alignment of youth-focused initiatives with the broader WYPSI objectives and KAIPTC strategic goals.
Programme Development and Management:
Design, develop, and oversee gender and youth-responsive projects in the context of the YPS portfolio.
Develop and implement project proposals on emerging issues related to Youth, Peace, and Security to inform and influence policy decisions in Africa.
Oversee the coordination, planning, and execution of youth-focused events, workshops, and seminars.
Research and Policy Influence:
Conduct desk reviews, field research, and data analysis to support the YPS agenda.
Lead the production of reports, policy briefs, and other materials to influence regional and international policies on YPS.
Resource Mobilization:
Lead resource mobilization efforts for youth-focused programmes, including the development of proposals and organization of donor engagement activities.
Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders to secure funding and ensure program sustainability.
Stakeholder Engagement and Networking:
Foster collaboration with partners, institutions, and youth networks to advance the YPS agenda.
Represent WYPSI at high-level engagements, forums, and conferences to advocate for youth inclusion in peace and security processes.
Capacity Building and Training:
Provide leadership in the development of training modules, materials, and resources for youth-focused capacity-building initiatives.
Facilitate training sessions, workshops, and reflection series to strengthen youth participation in peace and security.
Knowledge Management and Communication:
Oversee the development and dissemination of knowledge products, including reports, articles, and case studies related to the YPS agenda.
Ensure the generation and uploading of youth-related content on the KAIPTC website and other communication platforms.
Prepare periodic reports, including financial and narrative updates, for internal and external stakeholders.
Team Leadership and Supervision:
Provide leadership, mentoring, and supervision to Senior Programme Officers, Programme Officers and Programme Assistants.
Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture focused on achieving results.
General Duties:
Perform any other responsibilities within the scope and content of the job as assigned by the Director/Deputy Director.
Minimum Requirements
Education and Experience:
A Master’s Degree in Youth, Gender, Peace and Security, International Relations, Development Studies, or a related discipline in Social Sciences. Certification in project management, administration, or a related area is an advantage. A minimum of 10 years of post-qualification experience in programme development and management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Extensive knowledge of conflict dynamics, youth, and gender issues in Africa, including conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and governance. Experience in resource mobilization and donor engagement. Working knowledge of French is highly desirable.
Competencies Required
Technical Competencies:
In-depth knowledge of the YPS agenda and key frameworks, including UNSCR 2250, 2419, and 2535.
Strong understanding of youth roles in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and governance.
Proficiency in project management, report writing, and research methodologies.
Excellent networking and partnership-building skills.
Advanced ICT skills for programmatic purposes.
Proficiency in both qualitative and quantitative research.
Management Competencies:
Exceptional leadership and decision-making abilities.
Demonstrated skills in strategic planning and organizational management.
Proven ability to manage and mentor diverse teams.
Strong multitasking and adaptability skills.
Personal Attributes:
High level of professionalism and integrity.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Openness to innovation and new approaches.
Commitment to the mission and values of KAIPTC.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and adhere to deadlines.
Interested applicants are kindly requested to send their Cover Letter, CV together with 3 references and a professional work portfolio by e-mail to hr@kaiptc.org not later than 18 December 2024. Please indicate the job title clearly in the cover letter; otherwise your application may not be considered. Applicants will be short-listed on the basis of their qualifications and relevant work experience. Only short-listed candidates will be invited for an interview. Qualified female candidates are encouraged to apply.
KAIPTC is an equal opportunity employer.