ODI Trade Fellow (Kenya)

REWRITTEN JOB DESCRIPTION Trade Fellow (Kenya) ODI Global in partnership with Kenya's State Department for Trade Application Deadline: 9 July 2026 Department: International Economic Development Group Location: Nairobi, Kenya (with possibility of remote work as directed) About This Opportunity ODI Global is partnering with Kenya's State Department for Trade (SDT) and TradeMark Africa (TMA) to place a Trade Fellow who will strengthen the SDT's capacity for rigorous trade policy analysis and evidence-based policymaking. This is a unique chance to make a real impact on Kenya's trade strategy while building the technical capabilities of a key government institution. The fellow will work directly under the Principal Secretary and benefit from ongoing support and mentoring from ODI Global's International Economic Development Group. What You'll Do As Trade Fellow, you will be the bridge between research expertise and policy impact. Your core responsibilities include conducting policy-focused quantitative research on trade issues affecting Kenya; analyzing trade data to extract actionable insights for decision-makers; and preparing high-quality briefings on Kenya's trade landscape and policies. You will present your findings to SDT staff to build their analytical capabilities and represent the department at both internal meetings and external negotiations. You'll collaborate with government counterparts, regional economic communities, and international organizations on trade matters, while maintaining regular communication with the ODI team in London. Additional duties will include supporting SDT events and meetings, contributing to the joint research agenda, and taking on other tasks assigned by the Permanent Secretary as needed. Your Background You hold a Master's degree in economics or a related field with at least five years of professional experience in trade and economic policy work. Your experience could come from government, international organizations, or academia. If you hold a bachelor's degree instead, you should have at least 15 years of relevant professional experience in this sector. You must have working knowledge of English. The Role Details This is initially a one-year assignment with potential extension for an additional year. The SDT in Nairobi will be your duty station, though remote work may be required in accordance with government directives. The programme covers travel costs to your posting location. How We Work ODI Global is committed to building diverse, inclusive teams where talented people from all backgrounds can thrive on merit. We actively welcome applications from people of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious beliefs, family statuses, and those living with disabilities. We value the perspectives and experiences that come from different backgrounds and believe this strengthens our work. Selection Process A joint panel representing ODI Global, the SDT, and TradeMark Africa will review applications and conduct interviews. Your ongoing performance will be monitored collaboratively between SDT and ODI personnel to ensure you have the support needed to succeed. Note: An additional information document accompanies this vacancy. Please review it carefully before submitting your application. Submissions close on 9 July (inclusive).