Policy Analyst (GMG/SEG 2)

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Director General, the Policy Analyst is responsible for researching and developing Disaster Risk Management (DRM) policies to advance national disaster management and conducting audits of the DRM plans for GoJ’s Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). The position also assists with identifying mutual assistance and cooperation partners to support the national disaster risk management agenda. 

Key Responsibilities

• Formulates policies to guide the required amendments of the Disaster Risk Management Act, in accordance with GOJ policy guidelines; 
• Reviews and makes recommendation for changes, as necessary, to national DRM polices to make them compatible with the local environment, as well as aligned to best practices and DRM Protocols/Treaties to which Jamaica is a signatory; 
• Leads/participates in the development/revision of National Disaster Risk Management policies and legislative changes, for recommendation to the parent Ministry;
• Audits the DRM plans of MDAs to ensure their alignment with the National Disaster Risk Management Plan (NDRM) Plan; 
• Participates in post disaster/emergency evaluation, utilising information and knowledge gained to inform the work of the Organisation; 
• Assists in identifying opportunities for mutual assistance and cooperation with local, regional and international Public Sector Entities, NGOs and Private Sector Organisations, and facilitates the preparation of Memorandums of Understanding and other Agreements, to manage the programme; 
• Participates in the preparation of project proposals and the research for appropriate Funding Agencies project sponsors/donors/partners at the local, regional and international levels;
• Participates in the preparation of the Organisation’s Operational Plans and Budget preparation, as well as the development/review of documentation of operational policies, procedures and other operational documents prepared by the Organisation;
• Participates in the development and roll out of tools and other resources, to facilitate the work of the Organisation. 

Required Knowledge Skills and Competencies

Core: 

• Effective communication skills, both orally and in writing 
• Sound analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Strong interpersonal skills, with ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of individuals 
• Ability to use tact, discretion, initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines 

Functional: 

• Understanding of GoJ Strategic Planning Guidelines 
• Understanding of Disaster Management 
• The ability to conduct research, analyse and present findings 
• Understanding of national social, political and economic environment 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• An Undergraduate Degree in Disaster Management or related discipline; 
• Training in Policy Review and Development; 
• Five (5) years' working experience as a DRM Specialist, two (2) of which should be in Policy Development.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.