Senior Manager - Urban Policy

Delhi Bangalore, Karnataka
Permanent
Full-time

1 day ago

About the job Senior Manager - Urban PolicyAbout the OrganisationWe are partnering with a leading non-profit organisation working to transform the quality of life in Indias cities and towns. For over two decades, the organisation has been at the forefront of strengthening urban governance systems and driving systemic reforms that enable cities to be more equitable, sustainable, and resilient.Through close partnerships with governments, civil society, and international funders, the organisation has successfully shaped policy reforms, designed scalable governance models, and built influential platforms for civic engagement. Its flagship research publications and convenings are widely regarded as authoritative references in the urban policy ecosystem.Position SummaryThe Senior Manager, Urban Policy will serve as a senior subject-matter expert and thought leader, independently shaping and delivering the organisation's policy research and advocacy agenda for urban governance reforms. This is an exciting institution-building opportunity for an impact-minded senior professional looking to drive policy reform at scale, with significant exposure to senior government officials, policy makers, and urban development ecosystem leaders.Key Responsibilities1. Policy Research & Analysis

Lead research on urban governance, municipal law, decentralisation, and city-systems reforms.
Conduct studies on emerging challenges such as metropolitan governance, participatory democracy, rural urban transitions, and cross-cutting issues (climate, gender, health).
Develop evidence-based policy recommendations and reform frameworks for national, state, and city-level governance.

Track and analyse policy trends, identifying opportunities to influence reform agendas.2. Thought Leadership & AdvocacyAnchor flagship publications.Lead program management for the annual Urban Conclave, a sector-defining convening.Write policy briefs, research papers, and advocacy pieces to shape discourse on urban governance. * Represent the organisation at high-profile platforms, engaging with government, donors, civil society, and media.3. Team Leadership & Institutional DevelopmentMentor and guide a team of associates and senior associates in research and policy analysis.Establish high standards for research quality, project delivery, and stakeholder engagement.Support organisational processes such as annual planning, reviews, and knowledge management.Contribute to building institutional credibility and expanding the organisations policy footprint.Qualifications and Experience

Education: Master's degree in public policy, Urban Governance, Economics, Development Studies, Public Administration, Political Science, or related field.
Experience: 8 - 12 years in policy research, urban governance, consulting, or development sector programs.
Expertise: Strong understanding of Indian urban governance, decentralisation, urban finance, and service delivery systems.
Language: Excellent English (written and spoken) required; proficiency in additional Indian languages is a plus.

Skills:1. Proven research and analytical abilities; published work in policy/governance is desirable.2. Strong communication and writing skills across formats (reports, briefs, advocacy).3. Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholders including senior government officials, donors, and civil society leaders.4. Strategic thinker, quick problem-solver, and effective team leaderLocation: Bengaluru (in-office) / Delhi (with travel requirements)Reporting to: Director Policy & Insight

Arthan

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