Policy Manager – Brazil - J-PAL LAC
- Brazil
Summary of the organization
J-PAL LAC is a non-profit research center that aims to reduce global poverty by generating rigorous scientific evidence to inform social programs and public policies. As part of a global network of leading academics, J-PAL conducts randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to measure the impact of social programs and works closely with policymakers to translate evidence into effective policy design and implementation across multiple sectors and countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
J-PAL organizes its work into three main areas: research, public policy, and training. J-PAL LAC is headquartered at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (UC Chile) and has partnerships with Insper in Brazil, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, and ITAM in Mexico.
In 2019, J-PAL founders Esther Duflo and Abhijit Banerjee were awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics for their experimental approach to alleviating poverty.
Summary of the role
The Policy Manager will lead the activities of the Payments for Environmental Services (PES) Delivery Lab in Brazil. The role involves coordinating policy engagement, evidence dissemination, and technical advisory support to government and institutional partners. The Policy Manager will work closely with internal teams and external partners to support the development, implementation, and scaling of effective PES policies grounded in rigorous evidence.
Responsibilities
- Portfolio management of PES Delivery Lab activities
- Coordination of evidence dissemination and policy engagement efforts
- Provision of technical and strategic advisory support to government and institutional partners
- Scoping and assessment of opportunities for PES program design and reform
- Engagement with government agencies, communities, and implementing partners
- Coordination with experts and researchers to support evaluation and cost-effectiveness analysis
- Organization and participation in thought leadership events and policy dialogues
- Systematization and documentation of best practices for scalable PES models.
Qualifications
- Education: Master studies in economics, political science, public policy, or a related field. A PhD is a plus.
- Languages: Fluent Portuguese, intermediate Spanish and English.
- Experience: Experience working with governments is required. Familiarity with PES is a must. Experience in areas related to impact evaluation is desirable.
- Technical skills:
- Google Suite: Advanced
- PowerPoint/Presentations: Advanced
Work permissions: This position is open to Brazilian citizens or foreign nationals with a valid visa and/or work permit in Brazil at the time of application.
Location: Sao Paulo, Brazil
How to Apply
What to expect from this application process
Our team is composed of professionals from different countries and backgrounds. During the interview process, some questions may be asked in English. If you feel more comfortable responding in Portuguese, please let us know — we are happy to accommodate.
How to apply
Please fill out the following application form.
You will be asked to answer relevant questions and upload a CV and a short motivation letter (both in one single PDF). Materials may be submitted in English or Spanish.
- What is expected from your cover letter:
- Write a one-page cover letter in the language you are most comfortable with, clearly stating your qualifications for the responsibilities of the role and your reasons for applying to J-PAL. Please share aspects of your background that may not be evident from your CV but that make you a strong candidate.
- What is expected from your CV:
- Ideally 1–2 pages, in the language you are most comfortable with.
Selection process
- Round of interviews: Yes
- Final interview: Yes
Additional information
Given the volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Feedback may be provided only to finalist candidates.
We want to get to know you as both a professional and a human being, and we want you to succeed. You will receive all necessary materials and information at each stage of the process. Additional information or interviews may be requested, and you will be informed in advance to respect your time.
This process reflects our belief that, in an unequal region like ours, talent and motivation are not always fully captured by CVs alone. It is also an opportunity for candidates to better understand our work. These two elements are key to building a successful partnership.
The team is happy to accommodate your needs to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the process. Please let us know if you require any accommodations.