West Africa Regional Coordinator Full Time

The Bank Information Center (BIC) is an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organization based in Washington, DC that advocates for transparency, accountability, sustainability, and inclusion in development finance. We partner with civil society in developing and transition countries to monitor and influence the policies and operations of the World Bank Group, African Development Bank (AfDB), and other Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs). In partnership with international, regional, and local civil society organizations (CSOs), BIC conducts research and advocacy aimed at reforming and improving MDB policy and practices. BIC is not a part of any MDB and does not receive funding from any MDB or government.

BIC is seeking a West Africa based Regional Coordinator to provide guidance and support to BIC’s network of civil society partners and subgrantees in West Africa on issues related to MDB-funded development projects, and to convene and coordinate amongst these groups to participate in MDB policy reviews. The Coordinator will also support our program of work targeting the African Development Bank and will engage closely with a working group of CSOs to coordinate and conduct advocacy targeting the AfDB, including drafting policy analysis, briefs, and recommendations, and conducting meetings in Abidjan, virtually, and at regional events. The Coordinator will be BIC’s only staff in the region and must be a dynamic self-starter who is passionate about working on behalf of communities impacted by MDB projects. The West Africa Regional Coordinator will work closely with BIC’s DC based program staff as well as BIC’s Africa Coordinator, based in Dubai. Flexible for full-time or part-time schedules.

Primary Responsibilities

• Carry out advocacy targeting the AfDB and its shareholders to drive improved transparency, accountability, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion in AfDB policies and projects
• Establish and maintain connections with West African CSOs
• Support West African CSOs in monitoring projects financed by the World Bank Group and African Development Bank and engaging these institutions to highlight concerns and findings
• Coordinate with local CSOs to provide input and recommendations to AfDB policy reviews
• Organize virtual and in person trainings and workshops for West African CSOs on MDB-related topics
• Participate in relevant regional meetings and conferences

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong advocacy skills
• Ability to work closely and sensitively with local communities impacted by MDB projects
• Experience with, or interest in, issues related to civil society engagement, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability
• Strong communication skills
• Fluent written and speaking skills in both French and English
• Minimum 3-4 years of advocacy experience with a CSO or NGO
• University degree in law, political science, international development or related field
• Willingness to travel extensively including potentially to remote project sites (dependant on COVID restrictions and ability to safely travel)
• Ability to spend 3-4 weeks in Washington, DC and/or Senegal for training
• Applicant should be based in West Africa, with a strong preference for candidates based in Abidjan

Compensation and Benefits

Salary between $35,000 – 45,000 USD per year depending on qualifications for full time/40 hours per week. Part time schedules would be prorated. BIC also provides paid leave and other benefits.