Senior Political Risk Analyst, West Africa

The successful candidate will have a strong interest in and deep understanding of political and business dynamics in Nigeria. They will have excellent writing and presentation skills, access to well-placed sources, and preferably some experience in business development and client engagement.
This role will require the successful candidate to be based in Lagos and regularly attend the office there, though Control Risks encourages hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Willingness to travel and an ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with colleagues across departments and offices are vital.


Task and Responsibilities

Demonstrating expertise


Maintain a high level of regional and country expertise on Nigeria, Ghana and other countries in the region through research, attendance at relevant seminars and research trips.
Contribute to team discussions about political and business risk issues in Nigeria and topical developments in the region. Take ownership and responsibility for determining our position and analytical line on key issues.
Develop and effectively manage government, academic, journalistic and business contacts in the region and share knowledge about sources with other members of the desk. Use source information astutely and conduct in-person research as and when required, respecting client confidentiality.


Writing analysis


Provide regular and high-quality coverage of relevant developments affecting the business environment in Nigeria and other West African countries for clients subscribing to Seerist, Control Risks’ online subscription service. This will include writing updates on trends and developments across the region in domestic politics, government policy, regulation, operational and security issues.


Consulting and client engagement:


Deliver political and business risk consulting work on Nigeria, Ghana and other West African countries as required. Lead conversations with clients on their requirements for analysis of political, regulatory and operational risks in the region. Scope and write proposals for bespoke consulting engagements on the region.
Contribute to the development of compelling client deliverables and propose innovative ways to present facts and analysis to clients.
Support and contribute to the delivery of consulting engagements for the wider Africa region as required.
Collaborate with colleagues in other geographical regions on analysis of crosscutting global issues and trends where required (geopolitics, sustainability, technology, etc.).


Marketing and business development


Contribute to company-wide promotional publications, press releases and sales initiatives.
Contribute to regional marketing initiatives including thought leadership (articles, blogposts, podcasts, etc.), and represent Control Risks as a country expert at conferences when required.
Respond to media queries on the region as required under the direction of more senior members of the Africa analysis team.


Requirements

Essential


Professional experience in consulting, political and security risk analysis, emerging market analysis, market intelligence, public policy, academia, or government, with a primary focus on Nigeria and Ghana.
Practical experience of living, working or travelling in Nigeria and/or Ghana.
Knowledge and understanding of key political, regulatory, sector and operational risks for business in Nigeria, Ghana and other West African countries.
Proven ability to write and verbally communicate with authority and clarity.


Preferred:


Network of professional contacts in Nigeria and the wider West Africa region (public and private sector, policy and academia, journalism, government, etc.)
Experience conducting business development, proven track record of winning work (or funding), managing projects, and developing/maintaining client relationships.
Track record of relevant publications, participation in conferences and events, or providing expert comment to media
Proficiency in local languages


Competencies


Ability to independently identify, research and interpret significant events and developments.
Ability to write clearly, concisely and authoritatively to tight deadlines.
Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills.
Eagerness to seize opportunities, resolve problems and deliver work of the highest quality.
Ability to adapt well to changing demands.
Strong Microsoft Office skills
Good public speaking and presentation skills