- Public Affairs Research Institute (PARI)
Board Members (X3) and Board Chair at Public Affairs Research Institute
31 August 2025
Johannesburg
Volunteer
Part time
Job Description
Following a leadership transition, we are seeking passionate and committed individuals to join our Board of Directors. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the governance and strategic direction of an organization that plays a vital role in informing public policy and shaping public discourse.
This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the public policy landscape of South Africa. We look forward to welcoming new members who are eager to contribute to PARI’s next phase of research excellence and policy impact.
Time Commitment
Board members are expected to dedicate sufficient time to execute their responsibilities. The Board has four scheduled Board meetings a year, which Board members are expected to attend. Most Board meetings are held virtually. One Board meeting a year will be held in-person. The level of commitment required will be 15 – 20 days per year, with more significant time commitment during the induction period.
Roles and Responsibilities
Board Chair
- Lead the Board in board meetings and overseeing organizational governance.
- Ensure alignment with PARI’s mission of building capable, democratic institutions.
- Support the Executive Director in stakeholder relations, fundraising, and institutional planning.
- Facilitate communication between board members and the Executive Director.
Board Members
Each Board member participates in the tasks, duties and responsibilities of the board which include:
- Attend and actively participate in board meetings.
- Approve a strategy for PARI. Oversee the implementation of that strategy.
- Approve the allocation and use of the budget. Approve and monitor operational plans.
- Support the Executive Director in achieving PARI’s mission and objectives. Manage and hold to account the PARI Executive Director.
- Oversee risk management and internal control frameworks.
Qualifications And Requirements
Ideal Candidate Profile
Each Board member must be an individual with the following personal characteristics:
- Share PARI’s commitment to achieving effective and accountable public institutions through rigorous, policy-relevant research;
- Integrity, independence and commitment to high standards of excellence and ethics;
- Willingness to contribute personal expertise in working collectively with people from diverse backgrounds in the best interests of the organisation;
- Commitment to dedicating time and effort to board activities and meetings.
We welcome seasoned professionals with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Academic & applied research: understanding of and experience in PARI’s research areas with an ability to provide intellectual leadership and guidance to the organization’s research agenda. Candidates with university affiliations are preferred.
- Finance & Risk: sound understanding of and experience of overseeing finance and risk in organisations.
- Fundraising: ability to advise on and oversee the development and execution of fundraising strategies that align with organisational priorities.
- Strategic Communications & Public engagement: ability to advise on media relations, digital strategy, and thought leadership initiatives.
- Change management: experience in leading/advising on change in complex environments.
- Governance & Leadership: previous board experience in NGOs or relevant sectors is preferred.
- HR & Operations: experience in strategic HR management and strengthening organizational culture.
How to apply
Interested Candidates Are Invited To Submit The Following Documents
- A current CV;
- A motivation letter outlining your interest in the position, why you would like to serve on PARI’s Board and relevant experience;
- Contact details of three work-related referees (e-mails included);
to
MaraisButton & Associates. Email: annelie@maraisbutton.co.za .
Deadline: 31 August
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15 August 2025
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