Focus on the Global South was founded in 1995 and is based in the Chulalongkorn University Social Research Institute (CUSRI) in Bangkok, Thailand. Focus is a non-profit, policy analysis, research and campaigning organisation, working in national, regional and international coalitions and campaigns, with peoples’ movements, grassroots and other civil society organisations, policy makers and academics on key issues confronting the global south. With offices in New Delhi, Manila, Phnom Penh and Bangkok, Focus’ main aims are to challenge neoliberalism and corporate-driven globalisation while strengthening just and equitable alternatives.
Focus is registered in India as a Public Trust. The main areas of work of Focus India are trade, agriculture, food sovereignty and agroecology. Focus India seeks a Programme Officer to strengthen its existing programme and expand programme activities into related areas.
JOB PURPOSE
- Help develop, manage and implement a programme of research on agro-ecology and sustainable agriculture and food systems;
- Contribute to the development and implementation of projects for Focus India Programme;
- Conduct and disseminate research;
- Support the development of effective advocacy and strong social movements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Contribute to the development, coordination and implementation of research and campaigning related to agriculture (agro-ecological farming) and commons (Land, Water, Forests).
- In consultation with relevant Focus staff, conceptualise, develop and implement programme activities including, for example:
- Undertake specific research and/or policy analysis;
- Prepare working papers, policy briefs and other research outputs;
- Organise meetings and events
- Serve as a resource person for training and capacity building activities organised by Focus or its partners/ allies;
- Strengthen Focus’ relationships with its key allies and build relationships with new allies;
- Actively participate and contribute to Focus’ broader team processes;
- Contribute to the effective management of project budgets and expenditure;
- Assist in preparing funding proposals and reports;
- Ensure project activities are reviewed and critically assessed on a regular basis.
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
- Post Graduate studies in Social Sciences or Rural Development; or equivalent non-formal education and work experience;
- In-depth knowledge of one or more of the following issues: Agro-ecology and Sustainable Agriculture; Commons;
- Demonstrable experience of conducting research (developing research methodologies and approaches, designing research projects, establishing research collaborations) etc. on issues related to food and agriculture; Commons
- Good knowledge of Indian policy frameworks, agreements and initiatives affecting food and agriculture, climate change and common pool resources;
- Experience of writing and editing for a range of audiences including narrative reports, briefing papers, campaign materials, and proposals;
- Demonstrated ability to manage projects independently, including planning, budget management, communication, financial reporting, monitoring and evaluation;
- Good understanding of social movements in the relevant sub-region and national/ sub-regional/ regional political actors;
- A consultative, participative and gender-sensitive approach to work;
- Excellent written and verbal English and fluency in at least one other Indian language
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience in research, policy advocacy and campaigns;
- Ability to multi-task, working under pressure and set priorities. A track record of delivering on time and on budget;
- A history of activism and strong commitment to social justice;
- Excellent team work skills and the ability to build good relations both internally and externally;
- Willingness to travel extensively, as required.
REPORTING LINES
Research Officer will report directly to the Focus India Head of Office; secondary supervision will be conducted by Focus’ Executive Director.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
This post is based in New Delhi. It is offered initially for one year with a three-month probationary period. The job carries the possibility to be developed into a longer-term position, based on two-year renewable contracts, dependent on performance and available funding.
Interested candidates should email their biodata with a brief covering letter and writing sample at jobs@focusweb.org by 25th December 2017. Please state India Programme Officer application in the subject line of the email. Focus will respond only to short-listed candidates.
