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Policy Lead, Tech for Development Unit

Job Reference tbigc/TP/5126/191

This job has been closed.

Number of Positions:
1
Contract Type:
Permanent/Full Time
Contract Details:
Ongoing
Salary:
$95,000-$125,000
Working Hours:
35 Hours per week
Location:
San Francisco
Closing Date:
29/11/2020
Seniority level:
Policy
Company Industry:
Policy - Tech and Public Policy
Job Function:
San Francisco

Focus of the Role

The technological revolution is the central issue for modern, progressive policymakers. Properly managed it can help build a better and more equal society for everyone. But achieving this vision requires a determined effort to understand the new reality, in order to resolve the new challenges arising from the internet era and accelerate the opportunities it presents. 

Our Technology and Public Policy programme exists to help policymakers master the implications of the technology revolution and deliver progressive policy and strategy for the 21st century. This short deck explains more about the overall programme and our team culture.

Technology is closing off old pathways to development; but potentially opening up others. Countries that are quick to embrace tech have been able to make significant leaps, but there are yet to be any digital miracles equivalent to those in Asia at the turn of the last century.  The Tech for Development Policy Unit develops practical proposals for how developing countries can apply technology to advance prosperity and improve peoples’ lives. Our work has a particular focus on closing the global digital divide and building out digital infrastructure, applying technology transform healthcare, education and other public services, and fostering tech innovation in key sectors like energy and agriculture.  

The post holder will play a central role in our work to develop politically actionable policy and strategy, and to use this to influence the global policy debate. They will report to the Head of the Tech for Development Unit and work closely with other members of the Unit and the wider policy community at the Institute.

Job Introduction

The key objectives for the role are: 

  • Establish distinctive, evidence-based policy positions on the role of technology to accelerate prosperity and improve peoples’ lives in the developing world 
  • Deliver a range of policy products that shape the global policy debate 
  • Promote our policy work with clear, effective and innovative communication 
  • Convene key players in policymaking and the tech sector to help drive real-world change

Key Responsibilities

The post holder will: 

  • Be responsible for scoping and structuring programmes of work 
  • Be responsible for developing and delivering a range of policy products 
  • Build productive relationships with their stakeholders in tech and policy 
  • Speak about their work at public events and in the media 
  • Line manage senior policy analysts and / or policy analysts if required 

Person Specification

The following criteria must be met: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or equivalent practical experience 
  • 6+ years’ experience in public policy, consulting or relevant profession 
  • Proven ability to structure and solve complex policy problems 
  • A clear and confident communicator, both written and spoken 

The following is also desirable: 

  • Experience working in a developing country on tech policy / projects 
  • A strong network in the tech sector in Africa and / or Asia  

About The Institute

The Tony Blair Institute (TBI) is a mission-driven not for profit organisation. It exists to equip political leaders and governments with the tools to create open, inclusive and prosperous societies in a globalised world.

We do this within two connected divisions:

Government Advisory

Our Government Advisory teams work directly with political leaders and governments around the world to implement reforms that improve the lives of their citizens. It has both non-profit partners and a client base and its outputs cover a range of disciplines and projects across countries in Africa, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and South Asia.

Policy Futures

Our Policy Futures work encompasses three broad areas:

  • Renewing the Centre: developing a bold and innovative domestic policy programme to help renew the centre ground of British politics;
  • Tech and Public Policy: exploring the policy challenges and opportunities presented by the technological revolution; and
  • Extremism Policy Unit: creating solutions designed to tackle the threat of extremist ideologies in the UK and around the world.

What we believe in as an organisation:

  • Open and Progressive – you’ll believe in the value of teamwork
  • Bold and Pragmatic – you’ll approach everything you do with integrity and authenticity
  • Optimistic Changemakers – you’ll be focused on results

TBI believes embracing diversity and inclusion make us a better place to work.  It’s our goal to reflect everyone in society and we actively welcome applications from individuals and groups who are under-represented in the workplace. We celebrate difference be it ethnicity, religion, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation or disability.

We will only ever assess you on your abilities and fit for a role. We’re happy to discuss any adjustments you need to ensure a level playing field during recruitment and, if you're successful, discuss any adjustments you might need to thrive in your role.