Description

Position Title: Research Assistant

Position reports to: Manager, Standardization Division

Job Summary

The Research Assistant is essential in propelling the revision of the National Standardization Strategy (NS) at the Company. The NSS serves as a strategic three-year blue print detailing the Company's objectives for developing standards that are instrumental in promoting global trade and economic diversification. The Research Assistant will be responsible for meticulously tracking project progress, managing work plans, conducting relevant research and preparing detailed reports. This includes drafting documents, closely monitoring the execution of work plans, and addressing any deviations to maintain alignment with the NSS' objectives.

A significant part of the role is to create and update a stakeholder database, which is critical for fostering effective engagement and collaboration. Proficiency in economics and data analysis is crucial, as these skills are necessary for informed decision-making and strategic guidance within the NSS framework, ensuring the strategy's successful implementation and impact.


Principal Accountabilities:

• Provide comprehensive support to the NSS update initiative, ensuring project activities align with the Company's strategic objectives and timelines.
• Conduct market research, collect and analyse data and develop sector profiles for prioritized sectors
• Utilize economic principles and data analysis techniques to inform project decisions, assess progress, and contribute to the development of the NSS.
• Assist in the preparation and monitoring of project budgets, track resource allocation, and ensure financial accountability.
• Prepare accurate and timely NSS documentation, including progress reports, informational briefs, meeting minutes, promotional content and other relevant documents
• Coordinate and schedule project meetings, ensuring effective communication among stakeholders and timely dissemination of information.
• Monitor, prepare and execute project plans, identify any deviations, and suggest corrective actions to keep the project on track.
• Plan, organise and execute stakeholder consultations and engagements, synthesizing feedback for project enhancement.
• Develop and maintain records (hard copy and electronic formats), and comprehensive databases of key stakeholders, ensuring accurate and up-to-date contact information, engagement history, and relevant interests to support effective communication and collaboration throughout the NSS update process.
• Perform related work as may be required.
   

Person Specification - Minimum Training and Experience
Academic/Technical

• A bachelor's degree in either Management Studies, Economics, Statistics or Business Management.

Work Experience

• At least two (2) years in a technical support role, with experience in conducting research and stakeholder analysis, analysing data, writing reports and preparing meeting documentation.
• Skills in designing and conducting surveys are preferred.
   

An additional background in economics with experience in data collection and analytics IS highly desirable. The ability to manage projects would be an asset.


Other Skills I Knowledge

• Strong interpersonal and networking abilities.
• Proficient critical thinking, research, problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Exceptional organizational capabilities.
• Adaptable to changing circumstances and able to implement procedural adjustments.
• Independent and proactive in managing multiple tasks.
• Resilient under pressure in a dynamic environment.
• Prioritization and goal-oriented planning skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Cultural sensitivity and effective teamwork.
• Advanced computer literacy, particularly in data management systems.
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel Power Point, Project), internet research, and email communication.
• Operation of standard office equipment (laptop, scanner, photocopier, fax machine).
• • Project Management and Report Writing expertise.

Additional requirement
The position requires access to a vehicle.