Data Policy Advisor

Contract duration: 31.07.2026

Brief Description of the Project

Note: Kindly please note that the position title will be changed to Advisor during the recruitment process.

Since 2004, GIZ has been a reliable and trusted partner of the African Union (AU) to enhance inclusive growth and sustainable development on the African continent in line with the AU’s Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. With around 250 staff, GIZ AU cooperates with the AU Commission, as well as the AU’s specialized institutions and agencies, such as the Development Agency AUDA-NEPAD, at continental, regional and national level in more than 40 member states. The Data Governance in Africa Initiative provides support for an African digital single market by harmonizing regulations on data, creating cross-border data flow and promoting investments in secure and sustainable data infrastructure.

As Data Policy Advisor, you will support the implementation of the AU Data Policy Framework at national and regional level, working closely with African partners and contributing to digital policy harmonization activities across the continent.

Your tasks

• You will support the coordination of African organisations implementing the AU Data Policy Framework, contributing to project activities while considering political sensitivities
• You will contribute to policy development processes and ensure training is conducted using multi-stakeholder approaches
• You will assist in the implementation of data policy components and support project planning and implementation activities
• You will collaborate with other GIZ projects and external actors working on data governance in Africa to ensure alignment and complementarity
• You will develop data policy products and contribute to their dissemination and knowledge transfer
• You will work actively in professional networks and engage with the technical community on data governance issues
• You will represent data policy themes to external partners and contribute to stakeholder engagement activities

Qualifications

• University degree (Bachelor or Master level) in political science, economics, law, development studies, international affairs or comparable subject, preferably with focus on digital transformation or governance issues.

Professional experience

• At least six years professional experience, at least one year’s experience in policy development in Africa
• Experience in international cooperation and development
• Knowledge of digital transformation policy issues, data governance frameworks, and related regulatory topics
• Partner-oriented approach to development cooperation, respecting African ownership and sovereignty, with awareness of post-colonial debates
• Strong intercultural and communication skills, with ability to work in diverse, multicultural environments

Other knowledge, additional competencies

• Business fluent English essential, French language skills are an advantage
• Willingness to work in complex political environments and handle demanding workload situations