As President of Sayara International, JP Gravelines leads the development and implementation of novel methodological techniques that strive to incorporate the attitudes and perceptions of people on the ground into the heart of everything Sayara does, by marrying cutting-edge technology with rigorous analytical methods.
JP has over a decade of experience in various capacities in the greater strategic communications community including counter-disinformation, government communications, independent media support, preventing and countering violent extremism, counter-insurgency, and stabilization. JP’s technical skills intersect these themes through M&E, primary research, audience analysis, and assessment.
JP has worked with the NATO International Security Assistance Force, the United Nations Office Counter Terrorism, and the Canadian Army’s Psychological Operations element. JP has supported programming led by the UK FCDO, U.S. Department of State, USAID, and thought leadership agencies such as RUSI and the NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence.
JP holds an M.A. in Political Science, an M.B.A. in Finance, and a B.Sc. in Mathematics. He is based in Kyiv and speaks basic Russian.
Sayara International is hiring a Business Development Manager to support our team in Eastern Europe and ensure growth for our Eastern Europe portfolio and efficiency in our organization’s new business and proposal development processes. This role is full-time and based in Warsaw, with opportunities for remote working. Please read the full Terms of Reference below and guidelines on how to apply for this role. We look forward to hearing from you.
Position Description:
In this exciting newly-created role, you will be leading different components of business development, supporting the Eastern Europe team in their business development efforts. On a day-to-day basis, you will engage with (prospective) clients, lead capture planning processes and pre-positioning, and manage the proposal development process.
You have 8+ years’ experience in business development in the international development sector, and have worked on proposal development for USAID, U.S. State Department, and UN organizations. You are familiar with Sayara’s major thematic areas of expertise and preferably have experience working in Eastern Europe. You are comfortable engaging with our clients and prospective clients and can represent an organization at networking events. You have excellent English-language writing and oral communication skills, strong organizational and time management skills, excellent attention to detail, and you can work independently. You will report to the Director of Business Development and support the senior leadership of the Eastern Europe team to build Sayara’s business in the region.
As Business Development Manager for our Eastern Europe team, you will contribute significantly to the work Sayara does to build positive change in societies that most need it. You will be working with a welcoming and diverse international team of experienced professionals.
About Sayara International:
Sayara International is a social enterprise combining rigorous research and communication to create positive change in fragile and conflict-affected societies.
Sayara provides complex monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL) and social and behavior change communication (SBCC) in the most challenging environments. We work on countering disinformation, measuring social cohesion, and assessing education, migration, inclusive governance, climate change, and health.
Diverse perspectives and an emphasis on equity bring strength to Sayara. Gender, inclusion, and intersectional identities are cross-cutting themes across all our internal practices and our programs for governments, civil society organizations, and international institutions.
Sayara has evolved across unstable contexts. Our decentralized structure – with a global leadership network and investment in local talent – enables agility and rapid start-up, while equipping us with unique values and competencies.
Founded in 2003, Sayara operates in 30 countries across Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Our teams of professionals are based in field offices in Khartoum, Kyiv, and Nairobi, with support from our offices in Dubai, Istanbul, London, Marseille, and Warsaw.
Find out more about Sayara International:
Key Areas of Responsibility :
Develop and deliver the Eastern Europe Business Development strategy, engage with prospective clients, and lead the proposal development process from capture planning to proposal development and submission. This includes leading opportunity analysis, requirements analysis, partner negotiations, recruitment, preparing, and writing supporting bid documents, writing sections of technical narratives, and budget development for bids.
External Engagement and Networking
Business Intelligence-gathering
Proposal Development
Business development databases and reporting
Desired Skills & Qualifications:
Location:
Warsaw, Poland – with remote working possible. The Sayara International team has regional hubs, support offices, and additional staff based in many locations around the world.
We highly encourage applications from people originating from Eastern Europe, women, and minority groups.
Duration:
The Business Development Manager – Eastern Europe will be offered a one (1) year Employment Contract, with a four (4) month probation period and the option for renewal, based on the discretion of, and mutual agreement between Sayara and the Business Development Manager – Eastern Europe.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV and cover letter with up-to-date contact information to jobs@sayarainternational.com. Use “Business Development Manager – Warsaw” as the subject line of your email. Applications must be received by 13 May 2022. Note that CVs will be screened on a rolling basis and Sayara will offer the position to the candidate who meets the requirements – even if it is before the deadline. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sayara International is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, and political views or activity. This also applies to all employment practices within our organization.
Naseer has been with Sayara since 2009, when he joined the Kabul office as an IT Assistant. Naseer now leads the IT function for the organization, ensuring the protection of information systems as well as providing technical support and computer-related training to the team globally. He manages the website infrastructure and coordinates IT needs for new projects.
Previously, Naseer was a Program Manager at Sayara and handled a one-year social media campaign in Afghanistan which was focused on migration issues and funded by the European Union. He has also managed two components of a program to counter violent extremism in Kabul.
Sayara International is hiring an experienced Project Review Lead to join its Eastern Europe team. This role is offered on a consultancy basis. Please read the full Terms of Reference below and guidelines on how to apply for this role. We look forward to hearing from you.
Position Description:
The Project Officer will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of project reviews covering the areas of media development, media literacy, media capacity-building, communications, etc. The selected candidate must have experience in leading project reviews for HMG (FCDO).
The successful candidate will: rely on their established networks to build project review teams; draft project review ToRs; quality assure deliverables (reports, presentations); and ensure that the findings “land” with the Client.
The Project Review Lead will report to Sayara’s Director – Eastern Europe.
The Project Review Lead will contribute to the work Sayara does to build positive change in societies that most need it. You will be working as part of a welcoming and diverse international team of experienced professionals.
About Sayara International:
Sayara International is a global development company that specialises in the design and implementation of rigorous research, social and behaviour change communications, approaches to countering disinformation, governance strategies, and innovative programming in fragile, conflict-affected, and transitioning societies. Founded in 2003, Sayara operates in more than 30 countries across Eastern Europe, Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America and the Caribbean.
Sayara supports the programming of our clients and partners with complex and sustainable research, evaluation, data-driven policy change, socio-political analysis, strategic communications, countering violent extremism, crisis management, and humanitarian response in the most challenging environments, working with and for the most vulnerable communities worldwide. Sayara’s origins in conflict and the company’s evolution across fragile contexts have equipped us with a set of values, core operating principles, systems, and competencies unique in the global development industry.
We provide services to clients around the world, including the United Nations (UNDP, UNOPS, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UN Women), the European Union, governments (U.S., UK, France), universities, international NGOs, and other major donors. These services are in the areas of monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL); media monitoring; social and behaviour change communications (SBCC); stabilisation and sub-national governance; gender studies and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG); migration, displacement, and countering people smuggling and trafficking; and youth and education.
Sayara’s Eastern Europe team is comprised of experienced, in-house local experts (country-level leadership and program staff) across the region, plus an array of expert consultants with a variety of skillsets and local knowledge. Sayara’s network in the region extends to think tanks, academia, and other local partners. Our Eastern Europe regional team operates from Ukraine, Poland, Georgia, and the Baltic countries, conducting projects in the Baltics and Eastern Partnership countries.
Find out more about Sayara International:
Website
Twitter
Facebook
LinkedIn
Responsibilities:
• Plan, coordinate, and lead the project review process in cooperation with the Director – Eastern Europe.
• Discuss the scope of project reviews and prepare the ToRs.
• Support review team building (identifying consultants).
• Contribute to report-writing (ensuring the reports are Client-friendly) and quality control all deliverables.
• Make recommendations for the adjustment of projects.
• Other ad hoc tasks, as assigned.
Desired Qualifications/ Skills:
• Minimum Master’s degree (B.A. with significant relevant prior experience may be considered), in social science, political science, international affairs, development, or another relevant field.
• Several years of experience in leading/conducting project reviews, including for FCDO.
• Political acumen, especially in dealing with HMG stakeholders.
• Experience in the sector of communications and media.
• Ideally familiar with Eastern European geopolitics.
• Russian language knowledge a plus (not mandatory).
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation (humanitarian work and/or development programmes).
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong commitment to high quality work and integrity in all interactions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to engage appropriately with various audiences.
• Excellent English language writing skills.
Location & Travel:
Sayara seeks a candidate based in a European timezone (GMT, CET, EET, EEST). Travel throughout the region may be required.
Job Type/ Duration:
The Project Review Lead will be required to work around 15 days per month (depending on the number of project reviews commissioned by the Client) on a consultancy basis.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV with up-to-date contact information, as well as a list of any professional publications, via email to jobs@sayarainternational.com. Please use “Project Review Lead” as the subject line of your email. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.
Sayara International is hiring an experienced Country Assistant – Ukraine to join its Eastern Europe team. This role is full-time, with opportunities for remote working. Please read the full Terms of Reference below and guidelines on how to apply for this role. We look forward to hearing from you.
Position Description:
The Country Assistant – Ukraine will be actively engaged in supporting Sayara International’s project delivery in Ukraine, working in close collaboration and under the supervision of the Country Lead for Ukraine.
Candidates should have at least two years of demonstrable experience in research. Experience in project management would also be beneficial. Ideally, candidates will have some understanding of media, communications, or journalism, as well as the media and political landscape of Eastern Europe. Candidates must have excellent writing skills in English.
The Country Assistant will report to the Country Lead for Ukraine.
The Country Assistant – Ukraine will contribute to the work Sayara does to build positive change in societies that most need it. You will be working as part of a welcoming and diverse international team of experienced professionals.
About Sayara International:
Sayara International is a global development company that specialises in the design and implementation of rigorous research, social and behaviour change communications, approaches to countering disinformation, governance strategies, and innovative programming in fragile, conflict-affected, and transitioning societies. Founded in 2003, Sayara operates in more than 30 countries across Eastern Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
Sayara supports the programming of our clients and partners with complex and sustainable research, evaluation, data-driven policy change, socio-political analysis, strategic communication, countering violent extremism, crisis management, and humanitarian response in the most challenging environments, working with and for the most vulnerable communities worldwide. Sayara’s origins in conflict and the company’s evolution across fragile contexts have equipped us with a set of values, core operating principles, systems, and competencies unique in the global development industry.
We provide services to clients around the world, including the United Nations (UNDP, UNOPS, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UN Women), the European Union, governments (U.S., UK, France), universities, international NGOs, and other major donors. We provide services in the areas of monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL); media monitoring; social and behaviour change communications (SBCC); stabilisation and sub-national governance; gender studies and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG); migration, displacement, and countering people smuggling and trafficking; and youth and education.
Sayara’s Eastern Europe team is comprised of experienced, in-house local experts (country-level leadership and program staff) across the region, plus an array of expert consultants with a variety of skillsets and local knowledge. Sayara’s network in the region extends to think tanks, academia, and other local partners. Our Eastern Europe regional team operates from Ukraine, Poland, Georgia, and the Baltic countries, conducting projects in the Baltics and Eastern Partnership countries.
Find out more about Sayara International:
Responsibilities:
Desired Qualifications/ Skills:
Location & Travel:
Remote work possible, ideally based in Eastern Europe. Some travel may be required.
Job Type:
This is a full-time position (40 hours per week), Monday-Friday. Occasionally, working outside these hours may be required.
Duration:
The Country Assistant will be offered a one (1) year employment contract, with a three (3) month probation period and the option for renewal, based on the discretion of, and mutual agreement between Sayara and the Country Assistant.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV with up-to-date contact information via email to jobs@sayarainternational.com. Please use “Country Assistant (Ukraine)” as the subject line of your email.
The deadline for applications is 20th February 2022. Note that CVs will be screened on a rolling basis and Sayara will offer the position to the candidate who meets the requirements – even if it is before the deadline.
Position Description:
Sayara International is hiring an experienced Research Analyst to join our Eastern Europe team in support of ongoing activities in Ukraine. This role requires advanced quantitative and qualitative analysis skills, a sound understanding of the socio-political dynamics in Ukraine, and awareness of national and regional information ecosystems. This role is full-time, with opportunities for remote working (Europe preferred).
Please read the full Terms of Reference below and guidelines on how to apply for this role. We look forward to hearing from you. Sayara is currently conducting rapid-response research and communications projects in Ukraine. Ideally, the Research Analyst is able to start within two weeks (even at a reduced capacity at the beginning).
About Sayara International:
Sayara International is a social enterprise combining rigorous research and communication to create positive change in fragile and conflict-affected societies.
Sayara provides complex monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL) and social and behavior change communication (SBCC) in the most challenging environments. We work on countering disinformation, measuring social cohesion, and assessing education, migration, inclusive governance, climate change, and health.
Diverse perspectives and an emphasis on equity bring strength to Sayara. Gender, inclusion, and intersectional identities are cross-cutting themes across all our internal practices and our programs for governments, civil society organizations, and international institutions.
Sayara has evolved across unstable contexts. Our decentralized structure – with a global leadership network and investment in local talent – enables agility and rapid start-up, while equipping us with unique values and competencies.
Founded in 2003, Sayara operates in 30 countries across Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Our teams of professionals are based in field offices in Khartoum, Kyiv, and Nairobi, with support from our offices in Dubai, Istanbul, London, Marseille, and Warsaw.
Find out more about Sayara International:
Key Areas of Responsibility:
Desired Skills & Qualifications:
Location:
Europe time zone required (GMT to GMT+3)
Duration:
The Research Analyst will be offered a one (1) year Employment Contract, with a four (4) month probation period and the option for renewal, based on the discretion of, and mutual agreement between Sayara and the Research Analyst.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV and cover letter with up-to-date contact information to jobs@sayarainternational.com. Use “Research Analyst – Ukraine” as the subject line of your email. Applications must be received by 17 April 2022. Note that CVs will be screened on a rolling basis and Sayara will offer the position to the candidate who meets the requirements – even if it is before the deadline. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sayara International is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, and political views or activity. This also applies to all employment practices within our organization.
Sayara International is hiring a Business Development Assistant to join our team to ensure efficiency in our organization’s new business and proposal development processes. This role is full-time, with opportunities for remote working. Please read the full Terms of Reference below and guidelines on how to apply for this role. We look forward to hearing from you.
Position Description:
In this exciting newly created role, you will be working on different components of business development, supporting teams across the organization in their business development efforts. On a day-to-day basis, you will support the coordination of client engagements, capture planning and pre-positioning, and management of the proposal development process.
You have 2+ years’ experience in business development in the international development sector and are familiar with Sayara’s major thematic areas of expertise. You have excellent English-language writing and oral communication skills, strong organizational and time management skills, as well as excellent attention to detail, and you can work independently. You will report to the Director of Business Development and support the senior leadership team to help build Sayara’s business globally.
As Business Development Assitant, you will contribute significantly to the work Sayara does to build positive change in societies that most need it. You will be working with a welcoming and diverse international team of experienced professionals.
About Sayara International:
Sayara International specializes in combining rigorous research and communication to create positive change in fragile and conflict-affected societies. Founded in 2003 and operating in 30 countries worldwide, Sayara is a leading organization providing services across thematic sectors such as countering disinformation, migration, education, inclusive governance, climate change, and health.
We are committed to building positive change. Our strength comes from our adherence to our core values, our unparalleled expertise in research methodologies, and the context-specific experience of our team members. Our programs help communities and institutions to develop sustainable, research-based solutions to today’s toughest development challenges in Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Find out more about Sayara International:
Key Areas of Responsibility :
Support the proposal development process from capture planning to proposal development and submission. This includes supporting opportunity analysis, requirements analysis, partner negotiations, recruitment, preparing supporting documents, writing sections of technical narrative, and budget development.
Business Intelligence gathering
Proposal development
Business Development databases and reporting
Desired Skills & Qualifications:
Location:
There are no specific location requirements for the Business Development Assistant role. The Sayara International team has regional hubs, support offices, and additional staff based in many locations around the world. This is a remote position and, preferably, our new colleague will be based in one of the following time zones: UTC, UTC +1, UTC +2, UTC +3, or UTC +4.
We highly encourage applications from people originating from the Global South/ low- and lower-middle-income countries, women, and minority groups.
Duration:
The Business Development Assistant will be offered a one (1) year Employment Contract, with a four (4) month probation period and the option for renewal, based on the discretion of, and mutual agreement between Sayara and the Business Development Assistant.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV and cover letter with up-to-date contact information to jobs@sayarainternational.com . Use “Business Development Assistant” as the subject line of your email. Applications must be received by 17 April 2022. Note that CVs will be screened on a rolling basis and Sayara will offer the position to the candidate who meets the requirements – even if it is before the deadline. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sayara International is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, and political views or activity. This also applies to all employment practices within our organization.
Sayara International is hiring a Communications Officer. This role is full-time and remote working/home-based. Please read the full Terms of Reference below and guidelines on how to apply for this role. There will be a short task for candidates at the interview stage. We look forward to hearing from you.
Position Description:
Sayara is seeking a Communications Officer to join its busy Communications team. This position is ideal for someone planning to move on from their first role and take the next step in their career. The successful candidate will support the organization’s Communications function through copy editing, content creation, and sharing information both internally and via Sayara’s website and social media.
Sayara’s work entails research and communication across a range of sectors/themes, often in fragile, conflict-affected societies around the world. As such, the Communications team is tasked with presenting complex data and nuanced information in engaging, accessible ways for a variety of audiences.
The successful candidate will be adept at working independently and able to juggle deadlines and projects. However, they will also be experienced working collaboratively in an open and transparent environment. Sayara welcomes new ideas and creative thinkers.
The Communications Officer will report to the Director of Communications (based in the UK).
The Communications Officer will contribute to the work Sayara does to build positive change in societies that most need it. You will be working as part of a welcoming and diverse international team of experienced professionals.
About Sayara International:
Sayara International specializes in combining rigorous research and communication to create positive change in fragile and conflict-affected societies. Founded in 2003 and operating in 30 countries worldwide, Sayara is a leading organization providing services across thematic sectors such as countering disinformation, migration, education, inclusive governance, climate change, and health.
We are committed to building positive change. Our strength comes from our adherence to our core values, our unparalleled expertise in research methodologies, and the context-specific experience of our team members. Our programs help communities and institutions to develop sustainable, research-based solutions to today’s toughest development challenges in Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Find out more about Sayara International:
Responsibilities:
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Location:
There are no specific location requirements for the Communications Officer role. The Sayara International team has regional hubs, support offices, and additional staff based in many locations around the world. This is a remote position and, preferably, our new colleague will be based in one of the following time zones: UTC, UTC +1, or UTC-1.
Before applying, candidates must have the right to work in the country where they are based (Sayara does not provide work visas).
We highly encourage applications from people from minority groups and/or from low- and lower-middle-income countries.
Job Type:
This is a full-time position (40 hours per week), Monday-Friday. Occasionally, overtime may be required.
Duration:
The Communications Officer will be offered a one (1) year employment contract, with a four (4) month probation period and the option for renewal, based on the discretion of, and mutual agreement between Sayara and the Graphic Designer.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV with up-to-date contact information via email to jobs@sayarainternational.com. Please use “Communications Officer” as the subject line of your email. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2022.
Note that CVs will be screened on a rolling basis and Sayara will offer the position to the candidate who meets the requirements – even if it is before the deadline. Sayara does not charge a fee at any stage in the recruitment process. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview, when they will be asked to complete a short task.
Sayara International is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, political views or activity, or other applicable characteristics. This also applies to all employment practices within our organization.
Sayara International is hiring an experienced Graphic Designer. This role is full-time and remote working/home-based. Please read the full Terms of Reference below and guidelines on how to apply for this role. We look forward to hearing from you.
Position Description:
Sayara is seeking an experienced Graphic Designer to join its busy Communications team. The Graphic Designer will be jointly responsible for visual representation of Sayara’s brand, as well as creating design products for our clients’ programs and projects.
Sayara’s work entails research and communication across a range of sectors/themes, often in fragile, conflict-affected societies around the world. As such, the Communications team is tasked with presenting complex data and nuanced information in engaging, accessible ways. You will develop concepts for designs in different formats, covering a range of sectors/themes, for various global audiences.
The successful candidate will be adept at working independently and able to juggle deadlines and projects. However, they will also be experienced working collaboratively in an open and transparent environment. Sayara welcomes new ideas and creative thinkers.
The Graphic Designer will also contribute to a significant rebranding process across the organization.
The Graphic Designer will work closely with Sayara’s Lead Graphic Designer (based in Colombia) and will report to the Director of Communications (based in the UK).
The Graphic Designer will contribute to the work Sayara does to build positive change in societies that most need it. You will be working as part of a welcoming and diverse international team of experienced professionals.
About Sayara International:
Sayara International specializes in combining rigorous research and communication to create positive change in fragile and conflict-affected societies. Founded in 2003 and operating in 30 countries worldwide, Sayara is a leading organization providing services across thematic sectors such as countering disinformation, migration, education, inclusive governance, climate change, and health.
We are committed to building positive change. Our strength comes from our adherence to our core values, our unparalleled expertise in research methodologies, and the context-specific experience of our team members. Our programs help communities and institutions to develop sustainable, research-based solutions to today’s toughest development challenges in Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Find out more about Sayara International:
Responsibilities:
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Location:
There are no specific location requirements for the Graphic Designer role. The Sayara International team has regional hubs, support offices, and additional staff based in many locations around the world. This is a remote position and, preferably, our new colleague will be based in one of the following time zones: UTC, UTC +1, or UTC +2, preferably in Eastern Europe.
Before applying, candidates must have the right to work in the country where they are based (Sayara does not provide work visas).
We highly encourage applications from people from minority groups and/or from low- and lower-middle-income countries.
Job Type:
This is a full-time position (40 hours per week), Monday-Friday. Occasionally, overtime may be required.
Duration:
The Graphic Designer will be offered a one (1) year employment contract, with a four (4) month probation period and the option for renewal, based on the discretion of, and mutual agreement between Sayara and the Graphic Designer.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV with up-to-date contact information and 3 samples of recent work (or link to an online design portfolio) via email to jobs@sayarainternational.com. Please use “Graphic Designer” as the subject line of your email. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2022.
Note that CVs will be screened on a rolling basis and Sayara will offer the position to the candidate who meets the requirements – even if it is before the deadline. Sayara does not charge a fee at any stage in the recruitment process. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview.
Sayara International is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, political views or activity, or other applicable characteristics. This also applies to all employment practices within our organization.
Holly Ashmore is Sayara International’s Director of Communications. Based in the UK, Holly has over a decade of experience in communications, public relations, and marketing.
Before joining Sayara in 2020, Holly led the global communications function for London technology company 7digital and handled freelance PR and communications for audio and music technology clients. During five years at PR agency Weber Shandwick, Holly worked with global consumer and business-to-business technology clients including Microsoft, Motorola, Sonos, Citrix, Technicolor, and more.
Holly holds a B.A. in English & American Literature from University of Warwick.
Based in Kyiv, Hanna is a Program Coordinator responsible for managing projects in the Eastern European region. This role comprises the design and implementation of rigorous research, social and behavior change communications, and approaches to countering disinformation.
Before joining Sayara, Hanna worked for the International Organization for Migration (the UN Agency for Migration), leading projects aimed at strengthening social cohesion and improving mental health and psychosocial support among conflict-affected populations in Ukraine. She also worked at the Alliance for Public Health, focusing on the delivery of public health projects for vulnerable populations.
Hanna holds an M.A. in linguistics from Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University and passed the Certification in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) from Professionals in Humanitarian Assistance and Protection (PHAP).
Hanna is fluent in English, Russian, and Ukrainian.
Marlous brings more than a decade of business development and project management experience to Sayara International. She has developed winning proposals for programs in countries affected by conflict and disasters around the world, covering a spectrum of technical areas such as refugee return and reintegration, sexual and reproductive health and rights, emergency response, global health, democracy and governance, technical innovation, and international business investments.
Prior to joining Sayara International, Marlous served as Business Development Manager for Act for Peace (Australia), where she was responsible for building partnerships and accessing funding for projects throughout Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Marlous has also provided business development, resource mobilization, and institutional fundraising services on a freelance basis to various not-for-profit organizations. She also served as Institutional Fundraising Coordinator for Rutgers and as Grants Consultant for Plus Projects (both in the Netherlands).
Marlous holds an M.A. in International Relations from the University of Wollongong in Dubai, UAE, as well as an M.Sc. in Business Administration from Erasmus University, the Netherlands. She also has a B.A. in Social Work from Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands.
Marlous is fluent in Dutch and English. She also speaks/reads basic Arabic, German, and French.
Wojciech is the Director overseeing Sayara’s project portfolio in Eastern Europe. He specializes in Eastern European geopolitics and big data analytics.
Prior to joining Sayara, Wojciech managed research projects on behalf of major international organizations, including the European Commission, DFID, Foreign Commonwealth Office, World Bank, and U.S. State Department. In particular, Wojciech managed a significant IOM-funded project that sought to understand how radicalization and violent extremism spread online in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Wojciech holds a Postgraduate degree in Computer Science from the Warsaw University of Technology, an M.A. in Public Administration and NGO Management from Grand Valley State University (Michigan, USA), and an M.A. in International Relations from the Cracov University of Economics.
In addition, Wojciech is currently pursuing a certificate in Data Science from Harvard University. He is also a PhD candidate at King’s College London. He speaks Polish, English, and Spanish.
Nama is a social scientist who specializes in mixed-methods data collection in complex environments. Over the past eight years, Nama has built a global research network throughout South Asia, the Middle East, the Horn of Africa, Eastern Europe, and Latin America.
Nama oversees all of Sayara’s research, monitoring, and evaluation activities, which are conducted on behalf of the European Union, the U.S. Department of State, UN agencies, USAID, international NGOs and foundations, academic institutions, and a variety of other clients. She uses sociology and behavioral economics to inform and evaluate policies and programs that protect vulnerable groups, address trans-national crime, and counter violent extremism and disinformation.
Nama holds an M.A. in International Relations from the Sorbonne University in Paris, an M.A. in Sociology from the University of Caen in Normandy, and a B.A. in Social Science from the University of Strasbourg. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Political Science at the Sorbonne and a junior fellow in the European Research Council’s Social Dynamics of Civil Wars research program.
George is a media and business innovation specialist with a decade of experience working in emerging markets throughout the Middle East and North Africa. George’s private sector background has focused on developing ground-breaking media products tailored toward youth.
While working for Viacom’s broadcasting arm, OSN Network (previously Showtime Networks), George helped develop the pan-Arab Axis of Evil Comedy Tour and an interactive English Premier League program that allowed Middle Eastern audiences to interact with commentators, celebrity guests, and former Premier League football players via SMS and television chat.
George has also taught marketing and entrepreneurship at EMDI, in Dubai, and lectured at the Lebanese American University in Beirut. He currently lectures at Madrid’s IE Business School.
George holds an M.B.A. from the IE Business School and a B.A. in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Northeastern University.
Haroon oversees Sayara’s team of analysts and manages data collection operations in Afghanistan. With over a decade of experience coordinating MEL and mixed-method research to inform public health, rule of law, education, and community development programs, Haroon specializes in designing methodologies tailored to complex environments. He has managed and co-designed a wide variety of large-scale evaluation surveys for donors such as USAID, DFID, and the EU.
Haroon holds an M.D. from the University of Nangarhar, with a focus in epidemiology and biostatistics and an MSc. in Demography and Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Haroon is fluent in English, Dari, and Pashto, and proficient in Urdu and Arabic.
Abdiaziz Ismail is Sayara’s Country Advisor for Somalia. Abdiaziz is an expert in countering human trafficking, migration, and governance. Prior roles include working in Somaliland’s Ministry of Interior as a capacity development officer for local governance, where he was instrumental in forming and institutionalizing Somaliland’s new Counter Human Trafficking Agency.
Abdiaziz led the Somaliland component of Sayara’s EU-funded Better Migration Management project to map migration service providers across five countries in the Horn of Africa. In addition, he also has extensive experience as a consultant for international organizations including the United Nations and Expertise France, among others.
Abdiaziz holds a Master’s degree in Project Management and Planning from Amoud University in Somalia, and a Bachelor’s degree from Alneelain University in Khartoum, Sudan. Languages spoken include English, Somali, and Arabic.
Laura oversees Sayara’s operations in East Africa. A U.S.-trained attorney, Laura has over a decade of experience designing and managing programs to enhance human rights, good governance, and social inclusion in Africa.
Prior to joining Sayara, Laura worked for several years as an independent consultant for a broad range of clients, including African governments, local and international non-governmental organizations, and large donor organizations such as USAID, the UN, and EU consortiums. Laura is passionate about research and practical interventions that enhance the social inclusion of marginalized communities such as migrants, ethnic minorities, survivors of trauma, and other vulnerable groups.
Laura received her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Minnesota Law School, and holds an M.A. in Public Health from Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, and a B.A. from the University of Virginia. She speaks English and French.
Bakry Osman is the director of Sayara’s Sudan country office. Prior to joining Sayara International, Bakry co- founded and led Apex Consulting, a leading Sudanese consulting company providing services to many of the largest donor organizations in Sudan. Bakry has strong expertise in youth engagement, civil society, peace and conflict management, Political Analysis, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
Bakry previously worked for an international development agency in Khartoum and has carried out independent consultancies for international organizations including the German and the French governments.
Bakry holds a degree in Business Administration from the Canadian Sudanese College in Khartoum. He is fluent in English and Arabic.
Gianluca is a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning expert with a focus on gender in Latin America and the Caribbean. Formerly, he was a planning, monitoring, and data specialist for UN Women Colombia throughout 2014 to 2017.
Gianluca worked as a program officer for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Fund (SDG-F) and as a monitoring and evaluation specialist in the United Nations MDG Achievement Fund in New York (2012-2013). Gianluca joined the Fund after serving the UN Resident Coordinator Office, UNDP and UNICEF in Trinidad & Tobago (2011-2012) and the UNDP Strategy Unit in Honduras (2009-2010).
During 2006 – 2008, Gianluca worked in Colombia as a program manager for poverty reduction initiatives focusing on displaced populations, victims of the conflict, and reintegrated ex-combatants. His experience included working for the first National Human Development Atlas of Trinidad and Tobago and serving as lead author of the National MDG Report in Honduras 2010.
Gianluca holds a Masters degree in program evaluation and international development from the Institut d’Etude du Développement Economique et Social in Sorbonne University, Paris.
Gisela Zapata, Ph.D, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Demography and researcher at the Centre for Regional Development and Planning (CEDEPLAR) of the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil. She previously worked as a researcher and Teaching Fellow at the Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies (CURDS) at Newcastle University (UK).
Gisela has extensive teaching, research and consulting experience in Latin America, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Her research focuses on socio-economic and population themes, especially international migration and displacement, and the migration-development nexus. Her work has been published in prestigious scientific journals.
Gisela holds a Ph.D in Human Geography from Newcastle University (UK) and a Masters’ Degree in Economics from North Carolina State University (USA). Gisela is a native Spanish speaker, and is fluent in English and Portugese.
Salomon is a civil society leader, skilled trainer, an expert on youth and migration issues, as well as an experienced consultant.
He has worked as an advisor for the United Nations, International Labour Organization, FHI 360 and Expertise France among others. He previously led Sayara’s Ethiopia team for an EU-funded mapping of services for migrants, refugees and trafficked persons in the Horn of Africa.
Solomon holds a Master’s degree in Management and Social Development, a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, as well as a Certificate in Program Evaluation from the University of Pretoria.
Solomon has been recognized with awards for his work in Ethiopia from the Institute for International Education and Harvard School of Public Health.
Yvonne Maingey, Ph.D, holds a doctorate from the University of Nairobi, Institute for Climate Change and Adaptation. Her research interests focus on the nexus between development and climate change adaptation, with a specific interest in multiple stakeholder engagement as a tool for mainstreaming climate change adaptation into national infrastructural development.
With a decade of experience as a consultant in the sustainable development and environment sector, Yvonne is the founder and CEO of CaelKlima – a climate change advisory and product development startup. She started CaelKlima to play a significant role in informing and ensuring that adaptation to climate change is integrated into decision-making processes. The organization is dedicated to building capacity of the private sector, as well as local and national state agents, to mainstream climate change.
Yvonne also holds a Master’s degree in environmental education from New York University and an LLB Law degree from the London School of Economics.
Scott is a governance, stabilization, and communications specialist with a decade of experience in countering violent extremism and disinformation. Having worked for more than fifteen years in conflict-affected environments, in both the public and private sectors, Scott has unique insight into how mainstream media and digital platforms – as well as non-traditional means of communication – relate to development and stabilization activities.
After starting his career as a White House aide, Scott spent several years as a senior communications advisor to two American ambassadors in Afghanistan, where he assisted with the coordination of communication and public diplomacy strategies for the U.S. Embassy in Kabul.
Scott went on to work for USAID’s Office of Transitional Initiatives in Afghanistan, Lebanon, and Pakistan, specializing in the development of district-level governance and CVE strategies. Before joining Sayara, Scott also served as a communications advisor to Zain Telecommunications, in Iraq.
Scott holds an M.Sc. in International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles.
William is a Colombian economist with over 35 years of experience as a researcher in socio-economic, population, and migration issues. He brings an unrivaled track record in data collection, handling, and analysis of large sets of socio-demographic information, both quantitative and qualitative, for studying Latin American migration.
William has dedicated almost 20 years to working on migration issues in the fields of research, training, analysis, and public policy formulation. He is a leading expert on Venezuelan migration and a key advisor for organizations such as the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Regional Office for the European Economic Area, EU and NATO (Regional Office of South America, Missions of Colombia, Ecuador, Spain, Peru, and El Salvador), and the International Labor Organization (ILO) in Lima, Geneva, and Brasilia.
William also has significant experience in formulating, managing, and executing projects for international cooperation agencies, Colombian government institutions, academia, and the non-governmental sector in Latin America and Colombia.
Williams holds a Master’s in International Migration from the Technological University of Pereira, Colombia, and a B.A. in Economics from Universidad Libre Seccional Pereira. Frequently published and invited to speak at international events, William has also participated as an invited professor at institutions in Colombia, Argentina, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Peru, Panama, and Spain.
Shams is a Program Assistant based in Sayara International’s Khartoum office. She provides support to the program technical team, assisting with the development of materials and handling data management among other responsibilities. While at Sayara, Shams has contributed to projects for international donors focusing on strategic communications, transitional justice, disinformation, migration, and other key areas of research in Sudan.
With a keen interest in human rights, Shams has experience in research, communications, project management, and teamwork within international development and research contexts.
Prior to joining Sayara, Shams served as a Communication and Outreach Officer with the Sudan Research and Consultancy Group.
Shams holds a B.A. in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies from the National University in Sudan. She speaks both Arabic and English.
Background:
Sayara International is a global development company that specializes in rigorous research and innovative programming in conflict-affected and transitioning societies. Founded in 2003 and with more than 120 staff worldwide, Sayara is a leading organization providing services in monitoring and evaluation, socio-political analysis, strategic communication, governance, preventing and countering violent extremism, disinformation, migration, and youth and education. Our strength comes from our adherence to our core values, our unparalleled expertise in research methodologies, and the context-specific experience of our team members. We constantly innovate to create research designs that are customized to answer our clients’ questions.
Sayara’s Eastern Europe regional team operates from Ukraine, Poland, Georgia, and the Baltic countries. The regional team conducts projects in the Baltics and Eastern Partnership countries. We deliver services to clients around the world, including the United Nations (UNDP, UNOPS, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UN Women), the European Union, governments (U.S., UK, France), universities, international NGOs, and other major donors. Headquartered in the Washington, D.C. region with local offices in Kenya, Sudan, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Colombia, Ukraine, and France, Sayara is responsive to client needs in complex environments through local expert knowledge and an ethical, evidence-based approach.
Project Description:
With the aim to further support regional and local authorities’ efforts in addressing gender inequalities, UN Women is implementing the project “Building democratic, peaceful and gender equal society in Ukraine,” funded by the Government of Norway. This project focusing on the prevention of gender-based violence and the implementation of Women, Peace, and Security commitments in the crisis-affected communities of Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia regions.
The overall objective of this project is to collect and analyze data on gender stereotypes, public perceptions of gender roles, and attitudes towards gender-based violence. This research will lead to the “Endline Survey” of current and dominant attitudes, perceptions, opinions, and beliefs toward gender equality and gender-based violence in target hromadas in Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts.
Responsibilities:
Desired Qualifications:
Location & Travel:
Sayara seeks a candidate currently based in Ukraine. The candidate should have legal authorization to work in Ukraine. Travel throughout the region may be required.
Duration:
The project’s expected start is early November 2020 and it will last till early March 2021. More specific timing will be provided upon award of the contract.
Application Process:
Please submit your detailed CV with up-to-date contact information via email to jp@SayaraInternational.com. Please use “EASTERN EUROPE GENDER ADVISOR (CONSULTANT)” as the subject line of your email. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.
Hind Saad is a highly skilled Program Associate based in Sayara International’s Khartoum office, supporting Sayara’s program portfolio and business development efforts. With over 5 years’ experience in Sudan, Egypt, and the United Kingdom, Hind is committed to ongoing development and research to maximize efficiency and business results.
Previously, Hind worked with Apex Consulting as a Programs Officer, conducting literature review and qualitative research for projects to ensure data quality and ethical standards were upheld. In this role, Hind traveled to the field to conduct focus group discussions with women’s groups focused on gender equality and livelihoods and conducted key informant interviews with local children’s service provider organizations. Hind drafted qualitative interview notes, worked in a team to conduct an analysis of qualitative data, assisted with the development of project materials, and handled data management for projects.
Prior to joining Apex Consulting, Hind was the head of the Environmental section at Ghrabib Consultancy, where her team undertook a national project for the Sudanese Ministry of Petroleum and Gas entitled “Assessment of Potential Non-Edible Bio-Fuel Resources in Sudan for Bio-Fuel Production Project.” Hind also contributed to the bioremediation and biodegradation project for produced water treatment in petroleum sites at the Greater Nile Petroleum Operating Company.
Hind holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from Misr University for Science and Technology in Egypt.
Diana is a graphic designer at Sayara International based in Colombia. Working within Sayara’s Communications and Content team, Diana supports the company’s projects and business development efforts by overseeing and developing creative communication products displaying complex data and subject matters. These include full communication campaigns, visual concepts and identity, data visualization, reports and proposals, and brand communications.
Prior to joining Sayara, Diana led creative design at the Communications Research and Extension Center (CIEC) at the University of Antioquia, Colombia. There, Diana designed international and external communication campaigns aimed at promoting human rights, civil society mobilization, governance, peace, and public health. The role entailed conceptualizing graphic pieces, developing online platforms, editorial and multimedia graphic design, and design of printed materials such as marketing stationery and booklets.
Other roles have included graphic design and advertising communication at the Poncherazo Amagá Cultural Corporation and Lasallian University Corporation in Colombia. Diana also worked as a freelance advertising graphic communicator, and production and media coordinator with the INVITRO Advertising Agency at the University of Medellín.
Diana holds a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design and Communications from the University of Medellín, Colombia.
Lee is responsible for overseeing Sayara’s portfolio of MEL (monitoring, research, and learning) projects. She has a particular focus on participatory research and evaluations, and on developing and testing innovative methodologies to ensure all research projects take a multi-voiced approach.
Lee’s experience includes leading research, monitoring, and evaluation projects for a wide variety of partners, including UN agencies, governments, international foundations, and NGOs.
Lee holds an M.A. in International Development from the University of Melbourne. She speaks fluent English, French, and Russian, and is proficient in Pashto, Dari, and Arabic.
