**Political Economy/Governance Specialist** **The World at Abt** Solving the world’s most pressing issues and improving the quality of life for people worldwide is what we do every day at Abt. Creating a more equitable world is no small task, but we are driven by big challenges. We are a team of 3,000+ people in over 50 countries working in unison and focused on the bigger picture. Only by sharing our commitment, energy, and innovation do we affect change and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We welcome diverse ideas, backgrounds, and viewpoints – joining Abt means access to exceptional thinkers at the top of their game. To thrive at Abt is to embrace flexibility and collaboration. Our open culture allows you to balance your work and personal life as needed to optimize personal well-being. Creating a more equitable world starts from within – we look after people around the world, and we’ll do the same for you. Ready to embrace rewarding and meaningful work? Now’s your chance. **The Opportunity** Abt Global is seeking a **Political Economy/Governance Specialist** to support the anticipated **Congo Basin Forestry Action Programme (CBFAP)** , funded by the FCDO. The CBFAP aims to enhance forest governance, promote sustainable land use, and strengthen community-led forest management. The **Political Economy/Governance Specialist** will lead in analysing the political and economic landscape of the Congo Basin to ensure that governance reforms and policy interventions are responsive, effective, and sustainable. The **Political Economy/Governance Specialist** will provide strategic leadership and technical expertise in political economy analysis (PEA) and governance reform for the **Congo Basin Forestry Action Programme (CBFAP)** . The role involves understanding the political, economic, and institutional dynamics that impact forest governance, land use, and community engagement in the Congo Basin. The successful candidate will work closely with local governments, civil society, private sector actors, and other stakeholders to promote improved governance and accountability in forest management. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in political economy or political ecology, governance reform, public policy, and institutional capacity-building, with experience in the context of natural resource management and conservation. **Core Responsibilities** **_Political Economy Analysis (PEA) and Governance Strategy_** + Conduct PEAs to identify key drivers of deforestation, land use practices, and governance challenges in the Congo Basin. + Provide strategic advice on the design and implementation of governance interventions that address these challenges, taking into account the broader political and economic context. + Develop and implement strategies to improve forest governance, land tenure systems, and institutional frameworks that promote transparency, accountability, and equitable decision-making. **_Policy Reform and Advocacy_** + Lead efforts to engage with national and local governments, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to support policy reforms that strengthen forest governance and land use management. + Advocate for governance reforms that enhance the rights of forest-dependent communities, particularly with regard to land tenure, access to resources, and participatory decision-making. + Work with policy-makers to integrate governance considerations into forest management strategies and broader environmental policies. **_Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening_** + Build the capacity of government institutions, local authorities, and civil society organisations to improve forest governance, regulatory enforcement, and policy implementation. + Design and deliver training and technical assistance on governance reform, institutional development, and anti-corruption measures. + Strengthen multi-stakeholder governance platforms and dialogue mechanisms that foster collaboration between governments, communities, and the private sector. **_Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Development_** + Engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, private sector actors, and donor agencies, to promote collaborative governance approaches. + Facilitate partnerships that support political and economic reforms in forest governance, particularly those that empower local communities and promote inclusive decision-making. + Represent the project in national and international forums, sharing lessons learned and best practices in governance and political economy analysis. **_Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)_** + Collaborate with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) team to develop governance-related indicators and track progress toward governance reform objectives. + Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of governance interventions, using PEA to adapt and refine approaches as necessary. + Produce reports, policy briefs, and case studies that highlight key governance challenges and successes, ensuring that lessons are documented and disseminated widely. **What We Value** + Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Governance, International Development, or a related field. A PhD is desirable but not essential. + At least **7-10 years** of experience in political economy analysis (PEA), governance reform, or public policy, particularly in the context of natural resource management, forestry, or environmental governance. + Proven experience in working with governments, civil society organisations, and donor agencies to design and implement governance reforms. + Experience conducting PEA and using the findings to inform programme design and adaptive management. + Strong knowledge of land tenure systems, decentralisation processes, and public sector reform, preferably in sub-Saharan Africa. + Strong understanding of governance, political economy, and institutional reform frameworks, with the ability to apply these in the context of forest conservation and rural livelihoods. + Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working with governments, local communities, the private sector, and donors. + Fluency in **English** and **French** (required); knowledge of local languages in the Congo Basin is an advantage. + Strong analytical and writing skills, with the ability to produce high-quality reports, policy briefs, and knowledge products. + Familiarity with governance and anti-corruption frameworks, including strategies to combat illegal logging, land grabbing, and forest governance challenges. + Passionate about governance reform, political economy, and sustainable development. + Collaborative and team-oriented, with strong leadership and interpersonal skills. + Politically astute, with the ability to navigate complex political landscapes and engage stakeholders effectively. + Adaptable and flexible, with a commitment to fostering governance reforms that promote long-term sustainability. **What We Offer** We foster an environment where you can Thrive Your Way. Our innovative total rewards programs are designed to help balance your work and personal life. The approach toward your wellbeing centers around comprehensive benefits and professional development. Abt Global Inc. is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse workforce. Abt provides market-competitive salaries and comprehensive employee benefits. Local candidates strongly encouraged to apply. _Disclaimer: Abt will never ask candidates for money in exchange for an offer of employment._ Abt is committed to creating a safe and inclusive work environment. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate background checks, which can include criminal records and terrorism finance checks. Abt also participates in the Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (https://misconduct-disclosure-scheme.org/) . In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures. Around the world, vulnerable populations face an array of complex problems. At Abt Global, we’re committed to making fundamental societal change in these disproportionately affected communities. We help wherever we’re needed. Here, you’ll collaborate with an international network of talented colleagues as you design and implement solutions for critical health, climate, economic, and governance issues. In partnership with local and indigenous communities you will help to improve lives and livelihood. All the while having the support and encouragement of leaders who always put your career and wellbeing first. Come make a World of Difference with us. At Abt, our commitment to creating a more equitable society for populations around the world starts from within. We understand how communities can flourish when people are given the right resources and support, and at Abt we continuously strive to cultivate a culture where there are no barriers to personal and professional fulfilment. Our welcoming and inclusive environment, our stance on employee wellbeing and flexibility, our deliberate approach towards expanding our talent representation, and our Employee Networking Groups are just some of the ways we ensure that everyone at Abt can thrive. With an eye towards continuous improvement, we know there’s always more to be done. And we’re set on doing it.