We don’t just talk, we do. Lead the change with us.

At the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, we work with political leaders around the world to drive change. We help governments turn bold ideas into reality so they can deliver for their people. We do it by advising on strategy, policy and delivery, unlocking the power of technology across all three. And by sharing what we learn on the ground, so everyone can benefit. We do it to build more open, inclusive and prosperous countries for people everywhere.

We are a global team of nearly 800 changemakers, operating in more than 30 countries, across five continents. We are political strategists, policy experts, delivery practitioners, technology specialists and more. We speak more than 45 languages. We are working on over 100 projects, tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges. We’re all here at TBI to make a difference.

In a world of ever more complex challenges, we believe diversity of background and perspective is a strength. We pride ourselves on a culture that values and nurtures difference. We are dedicated to unlocking potential, not only for the countries we work in but also for each of our team members. No matter where you’re from or who you are, if you’re passionate about the transformative power of progressive politics, we invite you to build a better future with us.

Role Summary

Rwanda has actively pursued policies and strategies to boost both external and internal trade, as well as the industrialization of its economy, through key initiatives such as the Rwanda Trade Policy (2010, under review), Domestic Market Recapturing Strategy (2015), Made-In-Rwanda (MiR) Policy (2017), Industrial Development Policy for Rwanda (2022), and E-Commerce Policy (2021). These efforts align with the "Rwanda Vision 2050" strategy, which targets transitioning Rwanda to a middle-income country within 15 years and to a higher income status by 2050. The strategy encompasses broad objectives including structural transformation, improved governance, rural economy development, service sector expansion, industry and human resource enhancement, private sector development, and deeper regional and international integration.

Despite these advancements, there remains a significant opportunity to strengthen evidence-based planning and implementation to better inform policy decisions, particularly in industrial development. This involves reconfiguring key value chains and enhancing local raw material usage, alongside boosting Rwanda's regional and continental trade presence. Effective resource mobilization, coordination with Development Partners, and capacity building for evidence-based analysis within the Ministry are essential components of this strategy.

Currently, the Ministry of Trade and Industry is navigating various trade negotiations and initiatives at different levels, including the African Continental Free Trade Area, the East African Community (EAC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the World Trade Organization, each presenting unique opportunities and challenges for Rwanda's trade policy.

To support ongoing efforts and bridge the gap in data and analytics, there's a critical need to enhance the Ministry's capacity for generating, accessing, and disseminating reliable and actionable insights. This includes establishing a robust delivery mechanism to expedite priority interventions and ensure the successful implementation and evaluation of policies and agreements.

**Please note, w****e would consider supporting applicants not currently based in or with a right to work in Rwanda to relocate for this role***.*

Key Responsibilities

The Manager for the Ministry of Trade & Industry of Rwanda is a critical role aimed at driving the effective implementation of Rwanda's Industrial Policy and Made in Rwanda Policy through strategic advisory, robust delivery mechanisms, and structured execution methodologies. This position will collaborate closely with ministry officials and stakeholders to design, implement, and monitor high-impact transformation programs, leveraging best practices in delivery science to ensure successful policy outcomes and sustainable economic growth.

The Manager will be embedded at the Ministry of Trade & Industry and will be working directly with the Minister, Permanent Secretary and Director Generals with the ranges of key responsibilities outlined below:

Strategic Thought Partnership and Advisory Support: Act as a principal thought partner to the senior leadership of the Ministry, providing in-depth analysis, producing insightful policy briefs, and offering technical advisory services to facilitate critical decision-making processes. Leverage expertise in industry trends, economic analysis, and international best practices to guide the Ministry's strategic direction, ensuring informed decisions that drive sustainable development and economic growth.

Strategic Advisory and Operational Excellence: Provide strategic direction and operational guidance to instil a culture of high performance and results-oriented delivery within the ministry. Develop measurable work plans to ensure the strategic implementation of policies and initiatives.

Driving Delivery of Priority Outcomes: Lead the implementation of fundamental delivery mechanisms for tracking performance, identifying and solving problems, and conducting regular stocktaking of progress. Use data-driven tools for effective monitoring and fast-tracking of priority interventions, overcoming bottlenecks and capacity gaps.

Stakeholder Engagement and Management: Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key ecosystem actors, including government institutions and civil society partners. Serve as a thought partner to ministry leadership and a go-to person for the implementation of critical policies and strategies.

Capacity Building and Team Leadership: Mentor and coach team members to enhance their performance and support their development. Model best practices in people management, including setting objectives, task allocation, and monitoring progress against work plans.

Resource Mobilization and Partnership Development: Strategically engage with development partners to secure funding and support for key projects, ensuring alignment with the ministry’s long-term goals.

Person Specification

Educational Background: Advanced degree in Economics, Development Economics, International Trade, International Economics, or a closely related field, coupled with significant experience in policy development, strategic planning, and execution.

Professional Experience:

• Extensive experience in policy/strategy development, evaluation, and implementation, particularly within the sectors of industry, trade, and agricultural value chains.
• Demonstrated ability in applying structured delivery methodologies for effective policy implementation and project management.
• Proven track record of successful stakeholder engagement, resource mobilization, and partnership building, preferably with experience in Africa or similar contexts.

Strategic Planning and Execution Skills:

• Strong capability in strategic planning, prioritization, and conducting structured problem-solving sessions (e.g., labs, workshops) to drive policy implementation and delivery.
• Experience in establishing routines for monitoring progress, addressing challenges, and ensuring continuous improvement.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills:

• Exceptional communication skills, with proficiency in English; knowledge of French is a plus.
• Effective leadership and team-building skills, with an ability to inspire, mentor, and develop staff.

Adaptability and Innovation:

• Adept at navigating complex political landscapes and adapting strategies to meet evolving needs.
• Innovative thinker with a drive to implement best practices and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Closing Date:

2024-05-01