Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Political Science, Economics, Law, Development Studies, International Affairs, or a related field.

About GIZ

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a global leader in international cooperation for sustainable development. Operating in more than 120 countries, GIZ supports the German Government, especially the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), along with international partners, to achieve development goals for a sustainable and inclusive future.
Since 2004, GIZ has partnered with the African Union (AU) to promote inclusive growth and sustainable development across Africa, in line with Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. With over 250 staff and a presence in more than 40 member states, GIZ works closely with AU institutions such as the AU Commission and AUDA-NEPAD on initiatives covering peacebuilding, governance, economic growth, and digital transformation.

About the Project: DataCipation

The Data Governance in Africa Initiative (DataCipation) supports the development of a continental digital single market by harmonizing data regulations, facilitating cross-border data flows, and promoting investments in secure and sustainable digital infrastructure.
As part of this initiative, the Data Policy Advisor will play a vital role in advancing the AU Data Policy Framework, working with national and regional partners to strengthen digital governance and policy alignment across the continent.
Note: The position title will be officially changed to “Advisor” during the recruitment process.

Key Responsibilities

• Support African organizations in implementing the AU Data Policy Framework while considering political sensitivities.
• Contribute to policy development and ensure training uses participatory, multi-stakeholder approaches.
• Assist in project planning, coordination, and implementation of data policy activities.
• Collaborate with other GIZ projects and partners working on data governance in Africa to ensure alignment.
• Develop and share data policy materials to support knowledge exchange and capacity building.
• Engage actively in professional networks and technical communities on data governance issues.
• Represent GIZ and data policy themes in external stakeholder engagement activities.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Political Science, Economics, Law, Development Studies, International Affairs, or a related field.
• A focus on digital transformation or governance is an advantage.
  Experience:
• Minimum 6 years of professional experience, with at least 1 year in policy development in Africa.
• Experience in international cooperation and development projects.
• Knowledge of digital policy, data governance, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong understanding of African ownership, sovereignty, and post-colonial perspectives in development.

Required Skills

• Strong intercultural communication and collaboration skills.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Ability to manage complex political environments and meet tight deadlines.
• Capacity to handle work-related stress effectively.
  Desirable Skills:
• Proficiency in French or another African Union language.
• Strong digital literacy and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with data governance frameworks and implementation processes.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should send their motivation letter and updated CV to:
📩 recruitment-ethiopia@giz.de