Design Thinking/Innovation Specialist

The Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) is the first national institutionalized behavioral initiative in Africa supporting government and stakeholders to make behaviorally informed decisions and generate evidence for impact-driven interventions in critical thematic areas (Governance, Health, Gender & Social Inclusion, Education, Digital & Financial Inclusion). The PIC is positioned to support the delivery of better policies and innovative solutions for high-impact interventions across Africa. The PIC is an initiative of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), a leading think tank in Africa redefining evidence-based policy advocacy.


The Policy Innovation Centre is seeking to hire a Design Thinking Specialist who will use human-centered design research methodology to inform and improve programs, policies, and products.

Responsibilities:

  • Support the Behavioural Innovation Lab in designing and conducting ethnographic research, and in-person and remote usability evaluations.
  • Conduct quantitative and qualitative to explore and evaluate concepts and experiences, analyse data, and interpret findings to make prioritized design recommendations
  • Collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders and beneficiaries to co-create desired solutions- products, services, and policies.
  • Develop strategic reports and slide decks to communicate research findings, present potential design solutions, and use visually compelling presentations to demonstrate models and innovative solutions to complex social problems.
  • Other tasks as needed

Qualifications/Job Requirements:

  • Master’s degree in Public Policy, Social and Behavioural Science, Cognitive Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, Cultural Anthropology, or related degree.
  • At least 5 years of experience using human-centered design (design research/design thinking) research methodologies and behavioural science to solve social problems. This could involve product, service, or systems design and innovation.
  • Excellent analytical, problem problem-solving skills
  • Core skills in using behavioural science approach and frameworks for innovation
  • Capabilities for user testing, A/B testing, and randomized control trials are essential
  • Proven experience applying design thinking methodologies in the context of policy development.
  • Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to synthesize complex information.
  • Excellent facilitation and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
  • Familiarity with government processes and policy implementation.
  • Experience in prototyping, testing, and iterating on innovative solutions.
  • Passion for social impact and a commitment to advancing positive societal change.

How To Apply:

Please send your CV of no more than 2 A4 pages (Minimum font size 10) AND an accompanying cover letter of no more than 2 pages (Minimum font size 10) answering the following questions to pic@nesgroup.org, with the Job Title as the Subject and the following:

  • What is your motivation for wanting to join the PIC?
  • What are the top three key attributes you would bring to the PIC?