Principal Research Consultant / Technical Director

Talanta International is seeking a highly qualified Principal Research Consultant / Technical Director to lead research, advisory, and consulting projects across economic development, trade, and public policy sectors.

The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership in research delivery, business development, stakeholder engagement, and technical oversight while ensuring high-quality, data-driven insights for government institutions, international organizations, and private sector clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead business development initiatives to expand the firm's research and consulting portfolio.
• Identify strategic opportunities and develop engagement plans with potential clients and partners.
• Design, manage, and oversee economic and development policy research projects.
• Ensure research methodologies are rigorous, accurate, and relevant to policy and practical applications.
• Prepare high-quality research reports, policy briefs, presentations, and advisory materials.
• Present research findings and recommendations to different audiences.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and consulting professionals.
• Lead project teams and promote a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Manage stakeholder relationships with government bodies, international organizations, and private sector clients.
• Ensure successful delivery of consulting assignments within agreed timelines.

Requirements

• Master's Degree or PhD in Economics, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in economic policy research and advisory services.
• Proven experience successfully delivering research and consulting projects.
• Strong knowledge of economic modelling, policy analysis, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in statistical tools including STATA, R, or Python.
• Experience using data visualization tools.
• Experience working with government institutions, international organizations, or private sector clients.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to explain complex concepts clearly to non-specialist audiences.
• Strong subject-matter expertise.
• Strategic thinking and business development mindset.
• Strong research, consulting delivery, and stakeholder management skills.