🇳🇬 Job Vacancies @ Adam Smith International – 5 Positions

Adam Smith International is a global advisory company that works locally to transform lives by making economies stronger, societies more stable, and governments more effective. Our clients are governments, international organisations, companies, and foundations. They come to us to develop strategies and to design, deliver and evaluate programmes that address the big challenges facing the world.

As a company with experience of delivering lasting results, including in fragile states and where there is conflict, we are prepared to manage a high level of risk to achieve our purpose. Our core team of staff and technical experts, in multiple offices around the world, ensures the quality of delivery and high ethical standards that we and our clients require.

We are recruiting to fill the following positions below:

1.) Digital Modelling and Graphics Expert
2.) Programme Coordinator
3.) Media and Communications Expert
4.) Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Expert
5.) Program Coordinator - Research to Commercialization (R2C)

Job Title: Digital Modelling and Graphics Expert

Location: Abuja (with periodic field visits across project locations)
Work Arrangement: Full-Time
Work type: On-site

Background

• The project, funded under the RISA programme, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s research and innovation ecosystem by scaling local Technology Delivery Systems (TDS), fostering participatory technology development (PTD), and enabling distributed manufacturing at a national scale.
• This involves strengthening CONESAM’s brand identity, facilitating public-private partnerships, and enhancing digital fabrication and prototyping capabilities to drive research-to-commercialization (R2C) outcomes.
• Given the critical role of data visualization, digital content management, and digital modelling, the project requires a Digital Modelling and Graphics Expert to support all communication, visualization, and knowledge-sharing efforts.

Purpose of the Role

• The Digital Modelling and Graphics Expert will be responsible for designing and developing compelling visual content that effectively communicates project insights, outcomes, and research findings.
• The role will focus on creating engaging digital assets, data visualizations, infographics, and supporting the implementation of digital modelling efforts in collaboration with short-term experts.

Key Responsibilities
Digital Modelling & Visualization:

• Support the implementation of digital modelling strategies within the project.
• Work closely with the short-term expert to enhance digital modelling capabilities.
• Develop 3D models, simulations, and visualizations to aid research and prototyping efforts.

Data Visualization & Infographics:

• Develop high-quality infographics for reports, presentations, and policy briefs.
• Create interactive and static data visualizations to enhance research findings and project impact reporting.
• Translate complex data into easy-to-understand visuals tailored for diverse stakeholders.

Web-Based Platform & Digital Media Management:

• Support and manage the web-based platforms for CONESAM and NCAM to enhance digital visibility and stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure consistency in visual branding and digital content across the project's online platforms.
• Develop social media assets, banners, and multimedia content for digital engagement.

Stakeholder Engagement Materials:

• Design brochures, banners, and digital content for engagement with policymakers, private sector actors, and research institutions.
• Develop visually engaging materials for key project events such as the National Agricultural Mechanization Summit (NAMIS).

Knowledge Dissemination & Communication Support:

• Collaborate with the project’s communication team to produce visually impactful knowledge products that aid advocacy and policy engagement.
• Support the development of creative assets for reports, knowledge briefs, and other research-based materials.

Deliverables:

• A suite of data visualization tools tailored for project reporting.
• Infographics summarizing key research findings and policy briefs.
• Digital and print materials for stakeholder engagement and advocacy.
• Event materials for NAMIS and other forums.
• Functional and well-maintained web-based platforms for CONESAM and NCAM.
• Support in the development of 3D models and simulations for digital modelling implementation.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant qualification in Graphic Design, Digital Modelling, Data Visualization, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in visualization, infographics, graphic design, and digital modelling, preferably in research, development, or policy-related projects.
• Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, etc.).
• Experience with 3D modelling and simulation software such as Blender, AutoCAD, or SolidWorks.
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex data into visually appealing formats.
• Experience in supporting and managing web-based platforms for research and advocacy organizations such as CONESAM and NCAM.
• Knowledge of website design, social media content creation, and digital engagement strategies.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following:

• A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience.
• A portfolio of previous work showcasing expertise in digital modelling, data visualization, and infographics.
• A brief cover letter explaining their approach to visualizing research and policy materials.

Job Title: Programme Coordinator

Location: Abuja (Periodic field visits across project locations)
Work Arrangement: Full-Time
Work type: On-site

Background

• The project, funded under the RISA programme, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s research and innovation ecosystem by scaling local Technology Delivery Systems (TDS), fostering Participatory Technology Development (PTD), and enabling distributed manufacturing at a national scale. This includes facilitating networking and partnerships, advancing Research-to-Commercialization (R2C), and promoting research development and impact.
• The Programme Coordinator – North/South will play a critical role in ensuring effective stakeholder engagement, fostering strategic partnerships, and facilitating collaboration among key actors in the research, innovation, and industrial ecosystems.
• The Programme Coordinator will lead and coordinate project implementation across designated zones in northern and southern Nigeria.

Key Responsibilities
Project Implementation & Coordination:

• Oversee the execution of technology demonstration initiatives that connect technical training with real-world applications.
• Facilitate the implementation of industry-driven technology demonstration and showcase initiatives with private sectors in Southern/Northern Nigeria.
• Ensure effective resource allocation, compliance, and reporting in alignment with project objectives and funding requirements.
• Support the planning and execution of NAMIS 2025, ensuring alignment with key stakeholders and institutional partners.
• Support the demonstration of co-creation and alignment approaches to showcase the impact of collaboration between research institutions and industry.
• Work with stakeholders to ensure activities contribute to system-level impact, scalability, and long-term sustainability.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Development:

• Build and manage partnerships between CONESAM and relevant Federal Government MDAs to promote NAMIS 2025.
• Strengthen cross-stakeholder engagement to improve research quality and foster technology uptake through co-creation and alignment.
• Lead strategic engagements with research institutions, private sector partners, and industry stakeholders to secure buy-in and support.
• Establish and manage industry partnerships for policy development and technology transfer in agricultural mechanization.

Performance Monitoring, Learning & Reporting:

• Ensure all project milestones, deliverables, and timelines are met, adhering to agreed-upon work plans and budgets.
• Develop monitoring frameworks to assess the effectiveness of partnerships, stakeholder engagement, and technology adoption.
• Track and document the progress of co-creation and alignment projects to ensure impact-driven implementation.
• Develop and submit periodic progress reports, including success stories, case studies, and best practices.
• Support the publication of policy briefs, reviews, journal papers, and case studies to inform decision-making and policy advocacy.

Capacity Building & Sustainability Planning:

• Facilitate knowledge transfer and training initiatives to strengthen the capacity of stakeholders in research commercialization and technology adoption.
• Support the development of a framework for sustainable collaboration between research institutes, government agencies, and private sector actors.
• Assist in defining long-term strategies for scaling up mechanization innovations and strengthening local manufacturing capacity.
• Encourage continuous learning and adaptive planning to enhance the sustainability of agricultural mechanization initiatives.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Networking and Partnerships:

• Number of technology partnership agreements signed between CONESAM and private sector actors.
• Number of engagements with Federal MDAs to secure policy alignment and support for NAMIS 2025.
• Convening of NAMIS 2025 with active participation from stakeholders in Southern/Northern Nigeria.

Research Development and Impact:

• Development and approval of frameworks for co-creation and alignment in agricultural mechanization research.
• Number of co-created research-to-commercialization projects implemented through stakeholder collaboration.
• Support towards the demonstration of successful industry-driven technology adoption case in Southern/Northern Nigeria.

Reporting & Knowledge Dissemination:

• Publication of policy briefs, journal articles, and case studies showcasing successful mechanization models.
• Documentation and dissemination of best practices and lessons learned from implemented projects.
• Submission of quarterly progress reports highlighting key milestones, challenges, and recommendations.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Essential:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, Technical, workforce development, and implementation for donor-funded programs.
• Strong expertise in innovation management, and research commercialization.
• Proven ability to facilitate multi-stakeholder collaborations, public-private partnerships, and policy engagements in skills development and industrial innovation.
• Experience working with FCDO or similar donor-funded initiatives, managing grant facilities and large-scale training programs.
• Proficiency in project management software, digital collaboration tools and data analysis tools will be of added advantage.
• Strong reporting and communication skills, with experience developing policy papers, research reports, and strategic program documents.
• Expertise in curriculum development, training frameworks, and skills gap analysis, particularly in the agriculture, technology, and manufacturing sectors.
• Experience coordinating partnerships with government agencies, research institutions, and private sector stakeholders to drive sustainable employment and innovation.
• Knowledge of Nigeria’s STI ecosystem, agricultural mechanization policies, and technical education frameworks.
• Background in economic development, MSME support, and market-driven skills training programs.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter highlighting experience and suitability for the role.
• An updated CV with references.
• Link to previous publications and/or reports, policy brief, or research paper.

Note: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and competency-based assessment.

Job Title: Media and Communications Expert

Location: Abuja (Periodic field visits across project locations)
Work Arrangement: Full-Time
Work type: On-site

Background

• The project, funded under the RISA programme, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s research and innovation ecosystem by scaling local Technology Delivery Systems (TDS), fostering participatory technology development (PTD), and enabling distributed manufacturing at a national scale.
• This involves strengthening CONESAM’s brand identity, facilitating public-private partnerships, and enhancing digital fabrication and prototyping capabilities to drive research-to-commercialization (R2C) outcomes.
• Given the critical role of strategic communication in stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, and knowledge dissemination, the project requires a media and communications expert to support all communication efforts, ensuring visibility, branding, and outreach effectiveness.

Purpose of the Role

• The media and communications expert will be responsible for developing and implementing a strategic communication plan that supports the project’s objectives.
• The role will focus on increasing awareness, fostering partnerships, advocating for policy changes, and disseminating project learnings across multiple platforms.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communication & Branding:

• Develop and implement a project-wide communication strategy aligned with RISA’s key thematic areas: Pathways to Scale, Networking & Partnerships, and Research Development & Impact.
• Ensure clarity, consistency, and visibility of the project’s branding across all communication materials and stakeholder engagements in line with donor requirements.
• Oversee the production of branding materials, including brochures, reports, infographics, and multimedia content.

Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy:

• Develop tailored communication materials for diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, research institutions, private sector players, and international partners.
• Work closely with the project’s leadership to craft advocacy messages that influence policy discussions on Research-to-Commercialization (R2C) and Agricultural Mechanization.
• Support CONESAM in strengthening its identity and visibility as a national innovation platform.

Content Development & Knowledge Dissemination:

• Develop high-quality content, including press releases, newsletters, blog posts, social media updates, and case studies highlighting project impact.
• Ensure timely dissemination of knowledge products such as policy briefs, research findings, and case studies via various platforms.
• Support the organization and communication of project-related events, including the National Agricultural Mechanization Summit (NAMIS).

Media Relations & Digital Presence:

• Establish and maintain relationships with national and international media to enhance project visibility.
• Manage digital communication channels, including social media, websites, and email newsletters, to engage stakeholders and promote knowledge sharing.
• Monitor media coverage and public discourse on innovation and research commercialization, providing insights for strategic communication planning.

Monitoring & Evaluation of Communication Efforts:

• Track the impact of communication activities and generate reports detailing reach, engagement, and effectiveness.
• Collect stakeholder feedback to refine communication strategies and enhance messaging.
• Ensure compliance with donor branding and communication guidelines.

Requirements
Essential Qualifications:

• At least 3 years of experience in communications, public relations, or advocacy, preferably in the development, research, or technology sectors.
• Strong knowledge of strategic communication, content creation, media relations, and digital marketing.
• Proven ability to develop and implement communication plans targeting diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working with donor-funded projects and an understanding of their communication requirements.

Desirable Skills:

• Familiarity with Nigeria’s innovation and research landscape, particularly in agricultural mechanization.
• Experience in policy advocacy and government engagement.
• Proficiency in graphic design, video editing, or digital storytelling tools.

Deliverables
The Communications Specialist will be responsible for delivering the following within the project timeframe:

• Project Communication Strategy – A comprehensive communication plan outlining key messages, audiences, platforms, and implementation roadmap.
• Branding & Visibility Toolkit – A suite of materials ensuring consistent project branding and identity.
• Knowledge Products & Media Outputs – Regular production of articles, newsletters, blogs, policy briefs, and case studies.
• Digital & Social Media Strategy – Management of project’s online presence, including social media accounts and website content.
• Event Communication Support – Coordination of communication efforts for NAMIS and other key project events.
• Media Engagement Report – Documentation of media coverage and impact assessment.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter highlighting experience and suitability for the role.
• An updated CV with references.
• Link to previous publications and/or reports, policy brief, or research paper.

Note: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and competency-based assessment.

Job Title: Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Expert

Location: Abuja (with travel to project sites as required)
Work type: On-site

Background

• The project seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s research and innovation ecosystem by facilitating pathways to commercialization, fostering academia-industry collaboration, and scaling the participatory technology development (PTD) model across the country.
• Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) is a cross-cutting theme, ensuring that marginalized and underrepresented groups especially women, youth, and persons with disabilities actively participate in and benefit from research, innovation, and commercialization activities.
• The GESI Expert will ensure that the project mainstreams GESI principles across all activities and contributes to a more inclusive research and innovation system in Nigeria.

Work Arrangement

• Short-Term-Technical-Assistance (STTA) To be present periodically in Abuja, Nigeria (periodic field visits across project locations on short notice)

Objectives of the Role
The GESI Expert will:

• Lead the integration of GESI principles into all aspects of the project, ensuring inclusive participation and equitable benefits.
• Provide technical guidance on GESI mainstreaming across research-to-commercialization (R2C) activities, partnerships, and policy advocacy efforts.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve access to innovation resources for marginalized groups.
• Monitor and evaluate the project’s GESI-related outcomes and ensure continuous learning and adaptation.
• Support Team and Stakeholders in grants writing – Technical inputs needed

Key Responsibilities
GESI Strategy Development & Implementation:

• Develop a GESI integration strategy aligned with project objectives and national policies.
• Conduct a GESI assessment to identify barriers and opportunities for inclusion in the innovation ecosystem.
• Design targeted interventions to increase participation of women, youth, and marginalized groups in technology development, commercialization, and entrepreneurship.

Capacity Building & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Train project staff, research institutions, and private sector partners on best practices in GESI mainstreaming.
• Support research institutions, CONESAM clusters to adopt inclusive innovation approaches.
• Foster partnerships with gender-focused organizations, advocacy groups, and policymakers to amplify impact.

Policy Advocacy & Knowledge Management:

• Develop policy briefs, case studies, and success stories showcasing inclusive innovation models.
• Engage with government agencies to integrate GESI considerations into national policies.
• Support the organization of inclusive stakeholder dialogues, including NAMIS (National Agricultural Mechanization Summit).

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL):

• Establish GESI-specific indicators and ensure data collection is disaggregated by gender and other social markers.
• Work closely with the MEL team to track the impact of GESI interventions and recommend improvements.
• Develop quarterly and annual reports on GESI outcomes and lessons learned.

Engagement duration 40 days
Quarter - First Quarter:

• Month: January - March
• Number of days: 10
• Key Activities: To be agreed ahead of each Quarter

Quarter - Second Quarter April-June:

• Month: April – June
• Number of days: 10
• Key Activities: To be agreed ahead of each Quarter

Quarter - Third Quarter:

• Month: July - September
• Number of days: 10
• Key Activities: To be agreed ahead of each Quarter

Quarter - Fourth Quarter:

• Month: October – December
• Number of days: 10
• Key Activities: To be agreed ahead of each Quarter

Total Days: 40 days

Required Qualifications & Experience
Essential:

• A Degree in Gender Studies, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in GESI mainstreaming within research, innovation, or development projects.
• Demonstrated experience designing and implementing GESI strategies in multi-stakeholder environments.
• Strong understanding of barriers faced by women, youth, and marginalized groups in STEM and entrepreneurship.
• Experience working with government institutions, academia, and the private sector to promote inclusive innovation.
• Excellent writing skills, with experience producing policy briefs, case studies, and reports.
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting on GESI outcomes.

Desirable:

• Prior experience working on FCDO-funded projects or similar donor-funded initiatives.
• Familiarity with Nigeria’s research and innovation policy landscape.

Deliverables:

• GESI strategy and action plan developed within the first one month.
• Capacity-building workshops conducted for project partners and stakeholders.
• Policy briefs and reports produced highlighting key GESI interventions.
• Quarterly and annual GESI monitoring reports submitted.
• Recommendations for sustainability and institutionalization of GESI principles beyond project lifespan.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter highlighting experience and suitability for the role.
• An updated CV with references.
• Link to previous publications and/or reports, policy brief, or research paper.

Note: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and competency-based assessment.

Job Title: Program Coordinator - Research to Commercialization (R2C)

Location: Abuja (FCT)
Work Arrangement: Full-Time
Work type: On-site

Role Overview

• The project, funded under the RISA programme, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s research and innovation ecosystem by scaling local Technology Delivery Systems (TDS), fostering Participatory Technology Development (PTD), and enabling distributed manufacturing at a national scale. This includes facilitating networking and partnerships, advancing Research-to-Commercialization (R2C), and promoting research development and impact.
• The coordinator will support the implementation of strategies to transition research outputs into market-ready solutions. This role requires close collaboration with research institutions, private sector players, and MSMEs to create enabling environments for cascaded-commercialization through participatory technology development and distributed manufacturing.
• The position demands strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills to drive sustainable commercialization models within the agricultural mechanization and innovation ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities
Project Implementation & Coordination:

• Support the execution of R2C project priorities, ensuring alignment with RISA Fund objectives and national STI policies.
• Facilitate the scaling and establishment of Technology Development Support Partnerships (TDSPs) with research institutions and the private sector for research commercialization.
• Support efforts to expand participatory technology development (PTD) models across research institutions, fabricators, and processor clusters.
• Support the development of business models for research commercialization and distributed manufacturing.
• Ensure the integration of Gender, Equity, and Social Inclusion (GESI) principles in R2C strategies.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Development:

• Support efforts to Strengthen academia-industry linkages to promote co-creation and commercialization of research outputs.
• Engage with government agencies, research institutions, and industry players to ensure policy alignment for research commercialization.
• Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) for funding and scaling research-based innovations.
• Provide strategic engagement support to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) participating in commercialization efforts.

Performance Monitoring, Learning & Reporting:

• Ensure timely submission of reports, including policy briefs, research insights, and knowledge-sharing publications.
• Develop and monitor R2C performance indicators, ensuring adherence to project milestones and timelines.
• Lead the documentation of case studies, success stories, and market adoption reports.
• Support grant reporting and compliance for donor-funded projects.
• Utilize graphic design and presentation tools to enhance communication of research findings and commercialization strategies.

Capacity Building & Sustainability Planning:

• Support in the trainings for researchers, MSMEs, and fabricators on commercialization pathways and market readiness.
• Ensure long-term sustainability of R2C initiatives by integrating commercialization strategies into national and international policies.
• Train and support maker-spaces on distributed manufacturing networks as enablers for local production and technology diffusion.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Technology Development & Commercialization:

• Number of market-ready technologies developed, standardized, and commercialized.
• Number of MSMEs, fabricators, and researchers trained in digital fabrication, prototyping, and commercialization.
• Approved frameworks for scaling participatory technology systems and attracting private sector investment in manufacturing.
• Verified database of research institutions, fabricators, and processors in target states.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration:

• Number of formal partnerships established between research institutions and private sector entities.
• Documented improvements in CONESAM’s leadership structure and operations.
• Number of policy engagements and public-private dialogues conducted.

Reporting & Knowledge Dissemination:

• Timely submission of grant reports and policy briefs.
• Number of published knowledge products (journal articles, case studies, or success stories).
• Use of graphic design and presentation tools to effectively communicate findings.
• Number of stakeholders trained to sustain R2C initiatives independently.
• Number of commercialization activities integrating Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) strategies.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Essential:

• At least 5 years of experience in donor-funded project management with a focus on research commercialization.
• Strong grant writing and reporting skills, with experience in donor compliance.
• Expertise in technology innovation management, market systems development, and industrial scaling strategies.
• Proficiency in digital productivity tools (MS Office, project management software, data visualization tools).
• Experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder collaborations, public-private partnerships, and policy engagements.
• Strong ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and work under pressure.
• Availability to travel periodically on short notice across project locations and coordinate complex interventions.
• Knowledge of Nigeria’s STI ecosystem, agricultural mechanization, and industrial policy frameworks.
• Graphic design and presentation skills for enhancing knowledge dissemination and stakeholder engagement.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter highlighting experience and suitability for the role.
• An updated CV with references.
• Link to previous publications and/or reports, policy brief, or research paper.

Note: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and competency-based assessment.