Manager, Research and Learning

Role overview

BRAC International is looking for a Manager, Research and Learning to join its Learning and Effectiveness portfolio in Nairobi, Kenya. The role supports programmes in identifying learning questions that can inform practical improvements and drive change at scale. The position also contributes to research, monitoring, partner coordination, and the production of knowledge materials.

What you will do

• Carry out desk-based research and prepare literature reviews tied to BRAC International’s priority themes, including women’s economic empowerment, youth empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods.
• Prepare study plans and research protocols for small-scale research assignments.
• Handle IRB submissions on your own or alongside external research collaborators.
• Help shape programme-specific learning agendas.
• Support the selection of outside research partners, including preparing and sharing requests for proposals and reviewing applications.
• Organise orientation and oversight for external research partners while tracking timelines and accountability.
• Lead or support training sessions for interviewers and enumerators.
• Coordinate closely with country programme teams and external researchers.
• Present and share research results through channels such as webinars and conferences.
• Co-develop learning briefs, factsheets, blog posts, and other research-linked knowledge products.
• Contribute to building a stronger knowledge management function.

Professional experience and technical background

• At least 3 years of experience conducting mixed-methods and/or qualitative primary research, which may include research assistant roles.
• Minimum 1 year of experience designing and leading mixed-methods and/or qualitative studies.
• Hands-on background in survey design and in-depth interviewing.
• Experience preparing IRB applications within BRAC International countries.
• Experience issuing an RFP and/or recruiting and supervising research consultants.
• Exposure to coaching, training, advising, or supervising staff working on monitoring, evaluation, and learning activities.

Knowledge, tools, and working style

• Strong understanding of qualitative and quantitative methods used in programme evaluation.
• Good grasp of measurement and the complexities of tracking development programme outcomes.
• Knowledge of research ethics and experience securing ethical approvals at local and country levels.
• Advanced capability in Microsoft Excel, including formulas and complex functions.
• Ability to work with data collection, analysis, and visualisation tools such as STATA, SPSS, Dedoose/NVivo, Kobo Toolbox/Qualtrics, and Power BI/Tableau.
• Comfortable working with multiple stakeholders in a strategic way.
• Confident leading or co-leading trainings and facilitation sessions.
• Strong presentation, facilitation, written, verbal, and negotiation skills.
• Able to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Self-driven, organised, and able to prioritise competing tasks under pressure.
• Capable of meeting tight deadlines while maintaining quality.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
• Willing and able to travel to project sites as needed, including 20–30% travel and working from remote locations when required.
• Maintains strong ethical standards and professional judgement.

Safeguarding expectations

The role requires a strong commitment to safeguarding. The successful candidate will be expected to keep the safety and dignity of programme participants and clients at the centre of decision-making, help reduce safeguarding risks, contribute to a respectful workplace, complete mandatory safeguarding training, participate in safeguarding discussions, and report any incidents through the correct channels. In cases involving known incidents, neutrality, sensitivity, non-judgemental conduct, and full cooperation with investigations are expected.

Education

A bachelor’s degree from a recognised university is required, preferably in Statistics, Development Studies, Business Administration, Social Science, or another relevant field.

About BRAC International

BRAC International is a leading non-profit organisation focused on supporting people and communities affected by poverty, illiteracy, disease, and social injustice. The organisation works to create a world free from exploitation and discrimination by designing scalable, proven solutions that help people realise their potential. Founded in Bangladesh in 1972, BRAC has grown over five decades into one of the world’s largest NGOs, reaching more than 100 million people. It began its international work in Afghanistan in 2002 and now operates across 14 countries in Asia and Africa. Rooted in the Global South, BRAC International brings a distinctive perspective shaped by experience, evidence, and continuous learning.

Core values

• Integrity: work honestly and responsibly.
• Innovation: test, refine, and improve for greater impact.
• Inclusiveness: ensure reach to those who need support most.
• Effectiveness: focus on delivering meaningful results for people in poverty.

Application notes

External applicants should submit an updated resume and mention the position name in the subject line. Internal applicants should apply with a current resume covering all assignments in detail, a cover letter outlining core competencies and career aspirations, and include the BRAC PIN and email while copying their immediate reporting manager. The application deadline is 11 July, 2026. BRAC International is an equal opportunities employer and follows strong safeguarding and background-check procedures, including criminal record disclosure where applicable.