Political Economy Analyst Consultant

DAI is seeking highly qualified candidates for the following position:

Political Economy Analyst Consultant

Project: USAID/ West Bank and Gaza (WBG) Accountable Local Governance Activity

Expected Start Date: ASAP

Level of Effort: Consultancy – Short Term Technical Assistance (STTA) for a 60-day LoE over one year (Starting from January 5, 2024 to January 4, 2026)

Location: Ramallah, Palestine

Project Background

The goal of the USAID/ West Bank and Gaza (WBG) Accountable Local Governance Activity is to improve the delivery of essential public services and to promote inclusive and accountable governance. The Activity interventions will improve service delivery, enhance the effectiveness of municipal operations, strengthen local governance unit (LGU) fiscal management, and build resilience to shocks and stressors. The Activity will strengthen municipal responsiveness to citizens’ priorities and concerns, enhance civic engagement in local governance with a focus on under-represented and marginalized groups, and help connect LGUs, civil society, and other institutions to improve service delivery and enhance accountable governance. 

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Project Background

USAID/West Bank and Gaza (WBG) Accountable Local Governance Activity is a four-year, four-months project that aims to improve the delivery of essential public services and to promote inclusive and accountable governance. The Activity interventions will improve service delivery, enhance the effectiveness of municipal operations, strengthen LGU fiscal management, and build resilience to shocks and stressors. The Activity will strengthen municipal responsiveness to citizens’ priorities and concerns, enhance civic engagement in local governance with a focus on under-represented and marginalized groups, and help connect LGUs, civil society, and other institutions to improve service delivery and enhance accountable governance. 

Position Purpose

The objective of this consultancy is to provide weekly updates on relevant contextual developments in the local governance sector, including key events, policy changes, and emerging challenges affecting local governments in the West Bank and Gaza. The consultant will also provide in-depth analysis pieces on critical issues upon request, supporting the ALG team in evidence-based decision-making, policy development, and action plan adjustments. 

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Weekly Updates
   • Provide concise, evidence-based weekly updates on political and economic developments impacting local governance in the West Bank and Gaza
   • Identify and highlight any emerging challenges or opportunities relevant to the ALG Activity, with a focus on policy changes, socio-political dynamics, and security or administrative shifts that could affect local governments.

2. Contextual Monitoring
   • Ensure a continuous flow of relevant information to the ALG team regarding the local governance landscape, development and security challenges, and key issues affecting the sector.
   • Actively monitor and analyze local media, government statements, and reports from other stakeholders to identify relevant developments and trends.
   • Monitor and analyze key regional security dynamics and developments, with consideration of the interconnected nature of the current crisis.
3. In-Depth Analysis (as needed)
   • Upon request, produce detailed analytical pieces on specific issues identified by the ALG team, such as local government policy shifts, donor landscape changes, financial constraints on local authorities, or the socio-political implications of new regulations.
   • Provide insights that support ALG in policy development, action plan adjustments, and strategic decision-making.
4. Stakeholder and Network Engagement
   • Leverage a broad network of contacts and relationships within the West Bank and Gaza to gather insights and information that may not be publicly available.
   • Regularly engage with sector stakeholders, including local government representatives, civil society organizations, and other actors to obtain context-rich information and validate observations.
5. Monthly Summary Reports
   • Submit a monthly summary report synthesizing the key findings, challenges, and opportunities identified over the reporting period, including recommendations to inform ALG Activity planning and decision-making.
   • Highlight any emerging issues or potential areas of concern that may require attention or adaptation in ALG’s approach.
6. Ad-hoc Briefings
   • Provide ad-hoc briefings or presentations to the ALG team, DAI’s country and home office, and USAID as needed to support a deeper understanding of specific issues or contextual changes.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a related field; a master's degree is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in political economy analysis, development consulting, or a related field, with a strong focus on governance, public sector, or local government issues in the West Bank and Gaza.
• Sector Knowledge: In-depth understanding of the development agenda and socio-political issues in the West Bank and Gaza, particularly as they relate to local governance.
• Network: Well-connected with a wide network of stakeholders within the local governance and development sectors, including government agencies, NGOs, and other key actors in the West Bank and Gaza.
• Language Skills: Fluency in both Arabic and English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills in both languages.
• Analytical Skills: Proven ability to conduct political economy analysis, synthesize complex information, and produce clear, actionable recommendations.
• Prior Experience with PEA: Demonstrated experience conducting political economy analyses (PEAs) or similar contextual analyses, preferably for international development projects.
• Information Verification: Proficiency in triangulating data to ensure accurate reporting and a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
• Insight Integration: Skill in synthesizing perceptions, contextual atmospherics, and factual reports to minimize uncertainty and enhance awareness of emerging challenges.

 Deliverables

1. Weekly Update Reports – Concise summaries (one page) of weekly developments, delivered via email, covering political and economic trends, relevant policy shifts, and other notable changes in the local governance landscape.
2. Monthly Summary Reports – Comprehensive report of the month's key developments, challenges, and recommendations for the ALG Activity.
3. In-Depth Analysis Pieces – Detailed reports on specific issues, as requested by the ALG team, that include context, implications, and actionable recommendations.
4. Ad-hoc Briefings – Verbal or written briefings on emerging issues as needed by the ALG team or USAID.
5. Short-Term Consultant Report – Submit a short-term consultant report highlighting activities, accomplishments, and recommendations within 10 days from the end of contract.

Reporting

The consultant will report to the Chief of Party or their designee and collaborate closely with key team members to ensure timely and relevant updates are provided to meet ALG’s needs.

To Apply:  If you would like to be part of a dynamic project team and are interested in submitting your CV for consideration, please apply through the following link:

Apply Online

Individual position postings including job description and qualifications sought can be viewed at the link provided. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for additional information. All applications must be received no later than Thursday, December 5th, 2024.

About DAI: DAI is a global development company with corporate offices in the United States, the United Kingdom, EU, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Palestine and project operations worldwide. We tackle fundamental social and economic development problems caused by inefficient markets, ineffective governance, and instability. DAI works on the frontlines of global development. We are committed to shaping a more livable world.

DAI is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer with a commitment to diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.