Job
Description
The Program Associate (PA) will play an important role in contextualizing and executing the CEGIS vision in a select state. The role will work closely with other technical teams project delivery teams in respective States. While currently the team operates out of Delhi, there is the possibility of working with other state governments which may entail regular travel/relocation. The Program Associate will be directly reporting to the Program Manager (PF) in the state. Position Overview As a Program Associate (PA) at The Centre for Effective Governance of Indian States (CEGIS), you will play a vital role in various projects across their entire life cycle. This includes handling concept notes, department-level diagnostics, solution identification, pilot development, pilot implementation, and providing support for scale-up initiatives. Projects typically involve frontline service delivery. Reporting to the respective Project Lead(s), you will significantly contribute to the analytical aspects of the projects, ensuring effective governance and public expenditure reforms. The role requires meticulous attention to detail and a strong analytical mindset to track and analyze data from various sources. The individual will be responsible for conducting independent research, root cause analysis, and presenting insights for effective problem-solving. Additionally, the role involves supporting project planning and implementation, stakeholder engagement, and documentation of project progress. Key Result Areas (KRAs): Track and analyze data for accuracy and conduct qualitative and quantitative analysis. Extract important insights from complex datasets relevant to key stakeholders. Prioritize and address data issues promptly to support project progress and decision-making. Within CEGIS, Public Revenue/Taxation/Public Finance teams role is to support institutionalization of data driven decision making by setting up the required infrastructure and technical capacity with the relevant line departments. High quality data and insights generated are expected to aid the State in goal setting, progress monitoring and strategic decision making. In addition, as a sectoral workstream, specific objectives are furthered by testing and institutionalizing interventions in the form of Micro RCTs with the larger goal of improving tax compliance and augmenting revenues. Analyzing past data on tax collections Examining tax design and tax administration and analysing the possible impact on economic decision making Designing, implementing, and evaluating interventions (behavioural as we'll as administrative) Measuring integrity of administrative data gathered and managed by the state machinery and suggest ways of improving its quality Conducting high-frequency measurement of outcomes and monitoring (of key programs and schemes) using various tools and techniques Generating learning notes to document project milestones and lessons for the future, and share generalizable knowledge with the wider team. Data Analysis and Insight Generation: Research and Documentation: Independently conduct research and root cause analysis, documenting and presenting insights. Produce comprehensive presentations and documentation to convey critical project insights. Create concept notes, policy briefs, and other documentation for stakeholder communication. Co-creates project specific solutions by collaborating with vertical teams Suggests enhancements to project approach, frameworks and targeted solutions based on government context Stakeholder Engagement and Communication: Evaluate project contingencies and engage with internal and external stakeholders. Anticipate client requirements through policy review Coordinate stakeholder meetings and gather feedback for project progress and decision-making. Foster deep connections with stakeholders including level 2 and level 3 stakeholders and suggest innovative ideas to nurture partnerships. Project Management: Plan and prioritize work plans, ensuring accountability for set timelines. Evaluate project contingencies incl delays, roadblocks and assist in strategies to create buy-in Ensure transparent and effective communication channels are maintained throughout the project lifecycle. Develop high-quality outputs, including reports, notes, and analyses & Ensure these deliverables meet the standards for dissemination at various forums, contributing to the projects success and visibility. Support project team members and manage their time effectively. Assist in altering project goals and outcomes based on stakeholder feedback and project progress. Take increasing responsibility for project management Documentation and Knowledge Creation & Facilitation:` Document and disseminate domain specific information that enables project success. Create original knowledge pieces like blogs, concept notes, work flows etc. Maintain Project based knowledge repository and contribute to other Knowledge management processes. Qualifications and Skills Needed: 1-3 years of experience with minimum a year of experience with a Masters degree or equivalent in economics, public policy, social science, or related fields from a reputable institution. High calibre Graduates will be considered. Fluency in English and basic to intermediate proficiency in Telugu. Proficiency in data analysis, including strong analytical skills in tracking and analyzing data, expertise in statistical tools like STATA and Excel, and conducting independent research and root cause analysis. Strong problem-solving skills coupled with creative thinking aptitude, risk-taking willingness, and the ability to translate ideas into actionable plans, all complemented by adept project management abilities. Exceptional writing and communication abilities to create documentation and presentations to convey complex ideas to diverse audiences. Adaptability to excel in independent work environments and small organizational settings, demonstrating both self-motivation and the ability to work effectively with minimal supervision. Capacity to foster partnerships and nurture stakeholder relationships. Proficiency in prioritizing tasks, planning timelines, and consistently meeting deadlines. Knowledge management and organizational skills for maintaining project-related data and information. Commitment to CEGISs mission and values
