Deputy Center Head — CoE-UT

Role Overview:

The Center of Excellence for Urban Transport (CoE-UT) at CRDF is a hub for advancing research, policy, and advisory solutions in urban mobility. The Center addresses critical challenges in sustainable, equitable, and efficient transport systems across India. CoE-UT collaborates with governments, international agencies, and academic institutions to promote innovation, build capacity, and deliver impactful projects. The Deputy Center Head will support the Center Head in achieving the strategic objectives of CoE-UT. This role involves managing day-to-day operations, driving high-quality project delivery, and ensuring alignment with CRDF’s mission. The incumbent will actively contribute to enhancing the Center’s profile, fostering partnerships, and mentoring team members to deliver excellence in research and advisory services.

Responsibilities:

1. Research and Knowledge Development
   • Contribute to developing cutting-edge research in urban mobility and transport systems.
   • 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 Center's finances.
   •  Support the Center Head in achieving financial growth targets for the Center.
4. 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.
5. Financial Management
   • Oversee transparent and accurate financial accounting.
   •  Ensure all projects maintain a surplus and contribute positively to the Center's finances.
   •  Support the Center Head in achieving financial growth targets for the Center.
6. Team and HR Oversight
   •  Manage recruitment, welfare, and exits of project staff and RAs as per CRDF procedures.
   •  Mentor the team members.
   •  Foster a collaborative and inclusive work culture.
7. Reporting and Compliance
   • Provide detailed periodic updates on project progress, finances, and team performance to the Center Head. 
   • Ensure all contracts comply with CRDF standards.
8. Partnerships and Networking
   • Strengthen the Center’s collaborations with national and international stakeholders.
   •  Represent the Center in meetings, conferences, and public forums.
9. Academic Contributions
   • Strengthen the Center’s collaborations with national and international stakeholders.
   •  Represent the Center in meetings, conferences, and public forums.
10. Academic Contributions
    • Actively engage in CEPT University’s educational programs.
11. Internal Collaboration
    • Liaison with entities within the CEPT umbrella including the University and CEPT Urban Planning and Design Foundation (CUPDF).

Qualifications and Experience:

•  Advanced degree in Transport Planning, Urban Transport, or related fields (PhD preferred).
•  10-12 years of combined experience in academia, research, and professional advisory roles, with significant contributions to urban transport and mobility projects.
•  Expertise in public transport systems, urban freight, non-motorized transport, or transport policy and regulation is desirable.

Attributes:

• Vision: Ability to support the development of actionable strategies that align with urban transport trends and challenges.
• Operational Leadership: Proven ability to manage projects, budgets, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure timely and quality outcomes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong networking skills to engage effectively with government bodies, academic institutions, and private sector partners.
• Financial Management: Experience in managing project finances and ensuring resource efficiency and stability.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills to produce high-quality written reports, presentations, and policy papers.
• Team Development: Commitment to building and mentoring a skilled team that works effectively.

Outcomes:

• Enhanced the reputation of CoE-UT as a leading resource in urban transport research and advisory services.
• Successful delivery of impactful projects aligned with the Center’s mission.
• Maintain excellent financial health and growth for the Center.
• Build and maintain a capable team that thrives in a collaborative environment.

Performance Measures:

• Impact of the Center’s work at national and international levels.
• Financial health and growth of the Center.
• Successful delivery and management of projects.
• Development of the Center’s team. 

Accountable to: Center Head, CoE-UT /Vice Chairperson/Director

Direct Reports: Project Coordinator/s, Research Associates

Key Stakeholders: Finance Manager, CRDF Head - HR, CRDF, CRDF Head Office Team, Other Center Heads

No. of positions: 1

Benefits: 

• Receive a competitive package with health insurance, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
• Contribute to the academic growth of the urban transport sector.
• Work with experts from across the globe and participate in national and international conferences.
• Lead initiatives focused on urban transport solutions.
• Based in Ahmedabad, a city known for its cultural heritage and modern advancements, and reputation as a safe place to live and work.

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