Policy Brief Consultant – Beirut

About the role

The International Rescue Committee is seeking a Policy Brief Consultant based in Beirut to lead a three‑phase evidence‑gathering and advocacy project on early childhood development (ECD) in conflict‑affected settings. The consultant will work closely with the Policy, Advocacy, and Communications Unit to produce a policy‑oriented brief that informs IRC’s advocacy strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Phase 1 – Conduct a desk review of global and Lebanon‑specific evidence on ECD in conflict, map relevant national policies, and develop tools for focus groups and key‑informant interviews.
• Phase 2 – Lead primary data collection, including facilitating focus group discussions with caregivers of children aged 0‑8 and conducting key‑informant interviews with ECD experts, government officials, and humanitarian actors, ensuring ethical and child‑sensitive practices.
• Phase 3 – Analyse qualitative and desk‑review findings, draft an evidence‑based advocacy brief, incorporate feedback from IRC stakeholders, and support a validation workshop to finalize the document.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in public policy, social sciences, international development or a related field.
• Minimum five years of experience in policy analysis, advocacy product development, or research, preferably in humanitarian or ECD contexts.
• Proven experience conducting qualitative research (FGDs and KIIs) and producing policy or advocacy briefs.
• Fluency in English and Arabic, both spoken and written.

Required skills