Center Head — CUPP

Role overview:

The Centre for Urban Planning and Policy (CUPP) is integral to CRDF. CUPP aligns with the organisation’s vision of being an international source of research, policy, and knowledge on urban habitats in developing nations. The Centre develops integrated urban planning and policy solutions to promote sustainable and resilient urban development. Its work spans research, capacity building, advisory services, and technical support. CUPP conducts practice-oriented research and analysis in areas like statutory planning, land policy, and capacity building to foster economic development and equitable urbanisation. Key focus areas include spatial planning, land development, affordable housing, climate resilience, and urban design interventions. The Centre Head leads the Centre and is responsible for all its activities as well as for procuring advisory and research contracts.

Responsibilities:

1. Knowledge Development and Dissemination

      • Advance expertise in the Centre’s domain.

      • Facilitate knowledge sharing within CEPT University.

2. Project Acquisition and Execution

             • Secure and manage research and advisory projects.

             • Ensure technical quality is at par with national and international benchmarks.

             • Deliver projects on time and within budget.

3. Financial Management

             • Oversee transparent and accurate financial accounting.

             • Ensure all projects maintain a surplus and contribute positively to the Centre's finances.

4. Team and HR Oversight

             • Manage recruitment, welfare, and exits of project staff and RAs as per CRDF procedures.

             • Mentor the Deputy Centre Head and other team members.

5. Reporting and Compliance

             • Submit detailed monthly technical and financial reports to the Vice Chairperson.

             • Ensure all contracts comply with CRDF standards.

6. Academic Contributions

             • Actively engage in CEPT University’s educational programs.

7. Internal Collaboration

             • Liaison with entities within the CEPT umbrella including the University and CEPT Urban Planning and Design Foundation (CUPDF).

Qualifications and Experience

  • Recognised expertise in Urban Planning, with significant contributions to urban policy and planning.
  • Close to 15 years of combined academic and professional experience.

Attributes

  • Vision: Ability to anticipate urban planning trends and integrate them into the Centre’s strategy and drive its implementation.
  • Leadership and Management: Proven track record in leading teams and successfully implementing programmes and projects within deadlines and budgets.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to work effectively with government bodies, academic institutions, and private sector partners.
  • Financial Stewardship: Experience in managing budgets and ensuring financial sustainability, with a focus on maintaining the financial growth of the Centre.
  • Communication Skills: Clear, professional communication (written and spoken) with the ability to adapt language for diverse audiences and ensure clarity in all interactions. Must be able to generate high-quality written reports, presentations, and policy papers.
  • Team Development: Commitment to building and mentoring a skilled team that works effectively.

Outcomes:

  • Strengthen CUPP’s position as a hub for Urban Planning and Policy at the national and international levels.
  • Maintain excellent financial health and growth for the Centre.
  • Build and maintain a capable team that thrives in a collaborative environment.

Performance Measures:

  • Impact of the Centre’s work at national and international levels.
  • Financial health and growth of the Centre.
  • Successful delivery and management of projects.
  • Development of the Centre’s team, especially the Deputy Centre Head.

Accountable to: Vice Chairperson/Director

Direct Reports: Deputy Centre Head, Project Managers, Research Associates

Key Stakeholders: Finance Manager, HR Head, and Other Centre Heads

No. of positions: 1

Location: Ahmedabad

Remuneration: As per industry standards

 

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