Director of Parliamentary Affairs and Research

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a 15-member regional group mandated to promote economic integration, social cohesion, and political stability across West Africa. As a premier Intergovernmental Organization (IGO), ECOWAS operates through a robust institutional framework, led by the Commission and the Community Parliament, to harmonize policies, foster a "borderless" region, and uphold democratic governance for over 400 million citizens. 

Under the guidance and the supervision of the Secretary General, the Director of Parliamentary Affairs and Research will co-ordinate technical support to the Parliament, particularly in the areas of parliamentary business, parliamentary reports, research, documentation and language services.

Role and Responsibilities 

• Plan and co-ordinate the activities of the parliamentary Affairs and Research Directorate.
• Organize and ensure a smooth parliamentary procedure.
• Drafts the reports of the sessions of Parliament; Co-ordinates and supervises the activities of units in charge of research and documentation.
• Co-ordinate the drafting of the agenda and work programme of the sessions of Parliament and those of the organs of Parliament.
• Prepare the preliminary draft of the annual activity report of the Parliament in collaboration with the other Directorates/Divisions of the General Secretariat.
• Assist in maintaining relations between the community Parliament and the National parliaments as well as with inter-parliamentary Institutions.
• Assist the Secretary General in planning and implementing the activities of Parliament.
• Perform any other duties as may be assigned.

 

• A minimum of a Masters Degree in Law, Public Administration, or Social Sciences from a recognized University.
• Twelve years of professional experience, including six years of relevant international experience and five years at supervisory level.
• Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to ECOWAS integration programes.
• Knowledgeable in the management of parliamentary procedures, processes and practices.
• Knowledge of strategic planning, implementation and general management. 
• Proficiency in French, English and Portugese is preferred. 
• Senior leadership experience in establishing strategic partnerships, working collaboratively, and building consensus with multiple internal and/or external stakeholders on complex issues in a multi-disciplinary governmental or international organization.