Research Director/Chief of Party for the USAID/PLR Research and Development (RAD) Activity (Proposal)

Job Description

Mathematica seeks a Research Director/Chief of Party for the anticipated USAID-funded Bureau of Policy, Learning and Resource Management (PLR) Research and Analytics for Development (RAD) Activity. The goal of this activity is to deliver high-quality analytical and evidence building services to USAID that informs decision-making on foreign assistance programing at multiple levels of the Agency. Work will include high quality assessments, impact evaluations, and other analytical services.

This position is contingent upon award to Mathematica and approval of personnel by USAID. The anticipated project start date is late 2024-early 2025.

Responsibilities:

• Provide technical and strategic leadership of the engagement, acting as the principal advisor over all analytical, operational, financial, and administrative components under this activity.
• Serve as a thought leader and high-level representative for Mathematica, liaising directly with USAID and supporting agencies, offices, and personnel.
• Ensure quality control and the overall responsiveness of research and analytical assistance provided under the contract, including all data collection and analysis, research studies, evaluations, learning and dissemination activities, and related tasks.
• Establish partnerships with international, regional, and national stakeholders, including research institutions, practitioners, and policymakers.
• Oversee communication materials covering project activities and outputs through presentations, academic publications, reports, and policy briefs for a range of audiences including national and international forums.

• Supervise and manage project staff and consultants, delegate responsibilities as required.
• Develop and oversee work plans, budgets, and reports based on expected contract outputs and results.
• Oversee project administration, implementation, and financial management to ensure that the contract aligns with Mathematica’s and USAID’s policies, requirements, and budget projections.
• Identify issues and risks related to contract management in a timely manner, in accordance with USAID and Mathematica’s policies and regulations.

Qualifications:

• At least ten (10) years of experience in performance and impact evaluations and/or assessments, field surveys, program assessments, and analytical services.
• A PhD in statistics, social sciences, economics, public policy, business management or other related discipline is required. Advanced degrees in related fields are welcomed.
• Previous experience in senior project leadership including as a Chief of Party, Deputy Chief of Party, and/or a Director of USAID-funded monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning project(s).
• Proven competency in managing large-scale, worldwide research and analytical programs, especially in developing country contexts. Demonstrated experience managing multiple tasks and priorities at the same time, and effectively determining priority actions.

• Advanced proficiency in quantitative analysis and knowledge of DRG development programming.
• Thorough knowledge of monitoring, evaluation, and performance management, including (but not limited to) indicator development, data collection and analysis, performance reporting, evaluation design and planning, and the dissemination of learning materials.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise overall quality control, execute time-sensitive deliverables, and meet high technical and editorial standards in written products.
• Strong familiarity with USAID policies, procedures, and compliance requirements, as well as knowledge of USAID’s Evaluation Policy
• Adept in building and maintain strong working relationships with USAID, project staff, and key stakeholders.
• Strong communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional proficiency in written and spoken English. Proficiencies in other languages welcomed.
• Ability to travel globally as required.

Instructions: Please submit a cover letter and resume via email to globalconsultants@mathematica-mpr.com

About the Organization

Mathematica is dedicated to improving health and well-being by bringing the highest standards of quality, objectivity, and excellence to bear on information collection and analysis for our partners and clients. The company has been at the forefront of assessing the effectiveness of policies and programs since 1968. Mathematica’s capabilities and reach respond to a wide range of social and public policy challenges and information needs in the United States and around the globe. Our employees are leaders in thorough and innovative program evaluation, objective policy research and interpretation, sophisticated survey design and data collection, and comprehensive performance measurement and data management. Mathematica works in a range of countries, serving government agencies, international organizations, foundations, universities, professional associations, and businesses. Our studies and analysis have yielded information to guide decisions in wide-ranging policy areas, from health, education, early childhood, and family support to nutrition, employment, disability, and international development. More information on Mathematica’s international work can found at: https://www.mathematica.org/our-focus- areas/international-research