Job Summary
The Policy Support Intern will collaborate with the Policy & Evidence-to-Action team to enhance evidence-based policymaking and foster meaningful stakeholder engagement within IPA Nigeria’s key focus areas, which include Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE), financial inclusion, gender, governance, social protection, and inclusive development.
This position offers practical exposure to policy research, evidence synthesis, stakeholder engagement, strategic convening, and the translation of evidence into policy within a worldwide research and policy institution.
We are seeking a highly motivated individual to oversee a range of critical operational duties, ensuring seamless project execution and adherence to established guidelines. The successful candidate will be tasked with coordinating cross-functional teams, managing stakeholder communications, and monitoring progress to identify and resolve potential bottlenecks. Additionally, you will be responsible for compiling detailed reports, analyzing performance metrics, and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are essential for this role. Familiarity with industry-specific software and a proven track record in project management are required.
Policy research and evidence synthesis professionals analyze complex data and information to develop comprehensive insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders. They conduct rigorous research, evaluate existing policies, and synthesize evidence from diverse sources to identify trends, gaps, and best practices. This role requires expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods, strong analytical skills, and the ability to communicate findings effectively to non-technical audiences. Responsibilities include designing research frameworks, collecting and analyzing data, and producing high-quality reports and briefs that inform decision-making. Candidates must possess a relevant advanced degree, such as a Master’s or Ph.D., in public policy, economics, political science, or a related field, along with several years of experience in policy analysis or research. Proficiency in research methodologies, data visualization tools, and policy evaluation techniques is essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
Perform comprehensive desk reviews and systematic literature scans focusing on high-priority policy and development topics such as gender equality, women’s economic empowerment (WEE), financial inclusion, governance, livelihoods, and social protection.
Assist in crafting policy briefs, compiling evidence summaries, drafting concept notes, designing presentations, and producing technical reports to support organizational objectives.
Collaborate with teams to translate research outcomes into actionable policy and programmatic recommendations for government bodies and sector stakeholders.
Facilitate the mapping of pertinent policies, frameworks, stakeholders, and institutional actors within the specified target sectors.
We facilitate strategic interactions with stakeholders and provide specialized assistance in policy development, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives while promoting collaborative decision-making processes.
Support the organization and recording of meetings, technical discussions, workshops, and policy dialogues with stakeholders.
Collaborate in the identification and mapping of key stakeholders while monitoring and recording the results of engagement efforts.
Facilitate the organization and coordination of events focused on evidence dissemination, learning convening, and policy roundtables.
Prepare comprehensive meeting notes, detailed engagement summaries, and structured follow-up action trackers.
The position involves providing assistance with research coordination and developing learning agendas. Responsibilities include managing research activities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and facilitating knowledge-sharing processes. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. Candidates should possess experience in research administration, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement, along with proficiency in relevant tools and methodologies.
Assist in organizing and facilitating thematic working groups and research coordination initiatives.
Provide support in the preparation and coordination of materials for Research Coordinating Committee (RCC) meetings and technical working sessions.
Assist in enhancing the formulation of research inquiries and the construction of learning agendas.
Assist in pinpointing policy and evidence gaps that could guide future research initiatives.
The position encompasses responsibilities in data management, monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL), as well as institutional support functions. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting, alongside a strong understanding of MEL frameworks and methodologies. Duties involve ensuring data accuracy, maintaining institutional records, and providing technical assistance to strengthen organizational systems. Ideal candidates will have experience in implementing MEL strategies, supporting capacity-building initiatives, and contributing to evidence-based decision-making processes.
Provide support in evaluating and structuring institutional data, policy documents, and evidence repositories through systematic review and organization.
Provide assistance with Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning activities tied to policy engagement and efforts to enhance institutional capacity.
Assist in documenting lessons learned, institutional insights, and opportunities for evidence utilization.
The role provides comprehensive administrative assistance and collaborative team support to ensure efficient operations. Duties include managing schedules, coordinating meetings, handling correspondence, and maintaining organized records. Additionally, the position involves addressing inquiries, facilitating communication between departments, and supporting team projects as needed. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in office software are essential, along with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities are required to interact effectively with staff and stakeholders.
Assist in organizing schedules, facilitating coordination efforts, and maintaining clear communication channels with stakeholders and partners.
You will participate in pertinent team meetings, training sessions, and organizational learning opportunities to stay aligned with company objectives and enhance your professional development.
Provide administrative and operational assistance to the Policy & Evidence-to-Action team as directed.
Seeking a candidate with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least three years of professional experience in a related role. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is essential, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication abilities, both written and verbal, are required to collaborate effectively with teams and stakeholders. The ideal applicant will demonstrate a proven track record of project management and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Candidates should possess a background in disciplines such as Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, Development Studies, Public Health, Gender Studies, International Development, Social Sciences, or closely related fields.
Accomplished writing, research, and analytical capabilities are essential.
Professionals with a demonstrated commitment to evidence-based policymaking, governance frameworks, gender equality and women’s economic empowerment (WEE), and development initiatives are encouraged to apply.
Demonstrates a strong aptitude for distilling complex information into clear, concise summaries.
Exceptional ability to manage tasks efficiently and convey information clearly and effectively.
Proficiency in utilizing Microsoft Office Suite applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is required.
Proven capability to operate autonomously while also contributing effectively as part of a high-energy team in a dynamic setting.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
