Job Details

Job Description

DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – RESEARCH, INNOVATION, AND COLLABORATIONS ABOUT US:

The National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) is a management development institute (MDI) under the Office of the President dedicated to enhancing the skills and competence of public service employees in Zambia. Government has reintroduced the mandatory Public Service Training and Certification Programme (PSTCP) at NIPA to build capacity and professionalize the public service effective January 2024.

Job Overview:

The National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to fill the role of Deputy Executive Director – Research, Innovation, and Collaborations . This key position will drive the research, consultancy, and innovation agenda, fostering efficiency and effectiveness in the Public Service through evidence-based practices and strategic partnerships with both the public and private sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Coordination of Research, Innovation and Consultancy Services:

• Coordinate the provision of consultancy and research services to generate and disseminate evidence-based information.
• Oversee the development and execution of research projects aimed at addressing key challenges and opportunities in public and private sectors. Drive and implement innovative practices to address emerging challenges in both the public and private sectors.

2. Strategic Partnerships Development:

• Develop and nurture strategic partnerships with both public and private stakeholders to bolster the institution’s capacity in training, research, and consultancy.
• Identify opportunities for collaboration with external entities to leverage expertise, and networks for mutual benefit.
• Mobilise financial resources for research, innovation, and consultancy activities.

3. Capacity Development:

• Lead efforts to enhance the Institute’s capacity in undertaking research, consultancy, and innovation initiatives.
• Develop and implement strategies to strengthen staff competencies and capabilities in research methodologies, innovation frameworks, and consultancy practices.

4. Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with local and international stakeholders on matters pertaining to research, consultancy, and innovation.
• Foster meaningful partnerships with government agencies, academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, and industry associations to drive collective impact and knowledge exchange.
• Conduct research and consultancy projects tailored to meet the needs of the private sector, contributing to industry-specific insights and solutions.
• Cultivate strong partnerships with private sector entities to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration in research and innovation activities.

Organizational Structure:

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Deputy Executive Director – Research, Innovation and Collaborations (Salary Scale NG/01) will oversee two departments:

1. Directorate of Research, Consultancy and Innovation:

• Led by a Director, this department focuses on executing research projects, providing consultancy services, and fostering innovation.

2. Directorate of International Affairs, and Collaborations:

• Headed by a Director, this department is responsible for establishing and managing international and local partnerships, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting collaboration on a regional, continental, and global scale.

Qualifications and Experience:

1. An earned Doctorate Degree from a reputable University.
2. Possession of Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees closely aligned with the PhD.

3. School Certificate
4. Minimum of six (6) years at senior management level.
5. Track record of high-impact scholarly publications, with a Google Scholar generated H-index of at least 8, demonstrating significant contributions to the body of knowledge.
6. Proven track record of conducting research, consultancy, and innovation projects.

7. Demonstrated experience in developing and managing strategic partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
8. Strong leadership and management skills, with excellent communication, negotiation, and networking abilities.
9. Sound knowledge of research methodologies, data analysis techniques, innovation frameworks, and consultancy practices.
10. Must be an active member of a professional body, preferably at the level of Fellow.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates who meet the qualifications are invited to: submit their applications, including a cover letter,

✓ detailed curriculum vitae,
✓ academic certificates,
✓ and three professional references.

NOTE: Candidates whose qualifications require interpretation and determination, are advised to contact the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) for assistance before submitting their applications.

Please send your application to the following address:

The Chairperson- Search Committee

C/O REGISTRAR

National Institute of Public Administration

P. O. Box 31990

Dushanbe Road

LUSAKA

The deadline for receiving applications is Tuesday 20th February 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

NIPA is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds. Join us in our mission to enhance the competence and professionalism of Zambia’s public service through cutting-edge research, innovations and collaborations.