Director of Research

saiia; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1 600 000 - 1 750 000; Full time

Job summary

A public policy think tank in Johannesburg is seeking a Director of Research to lead its research agenda and provide intellectual leadership. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in International Relations or similar fields along with significant senior research experience and excellent communication skills. The position offers a salary of 1.6-1.75 million p.a. and applications close on November 25, 2025.

Qualifications

• PhD preferred; minimum Master's degree in related field.
• 7–10 years of senior research leadership experience.
• Strong publication record and proven policy impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement overarching research strategy.
• Provide intellectual guidance across research programmes.
• Secure and manage research funding for sustainability.

Skills

Policy impact mobilization

Communication skills

Mentorship

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Postgraduate degree in relevant field

Job description

Director of Research

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Organisation: South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Salary: 1.6-1.75 million p.a

About SAIIA

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is an independent, non-profit public policy think tank committed to advancing a well-governed, peaceful, economically sustainable, and globally engaged Africa. For over 90 years, SAIIA has shaped key policy debates on Africa’s international relations, governance, and development.

The Opportunity

SAIIA seeks a visionary and dynamic Director of Research to provide intellectual and strategic leadership for its research agenda. This senior executive role is ideal for a thought leader who can shape rigorous, high-impact research and ensure it translates into meaningful policy influence.

The successful candidate will oversee SAIIA’s diverse research portfolio — spanning foreign policy, geopolitics, governance, climate, economics, regional integration, and futures / foresight — while fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence across programmes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and implement SAIIA’s overarching research strategy, aligned with Africa’s evolving policy landscape.
• Provide intellectual guidance and quality assurance across all research programmes.
• Mentor and manage research leaders and teams, building a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Strengthen SAIIA’s partnerships with policymakers, donors, and global thought leaders.
• Secure and manage research funding to ensure institutional sustainability.
• Represent SAIIA in high-level forums and public platforms, advancing its influence and reputation.

Requirements

• A postgraduate degree (minimum Masters, PhD preferred) in International Relations, Economics, Public Policy, Political Science, Law, or a related field.
• 7–10 years of senior research leadership experience within a think tank, academic institution, or international organisation.
• A strong publication record and proven ability to mobilise research for policy impact.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and managing donor relationships.
• Deep knowledge of Africa’s policy and governance landscape and global development and economic debates.
• Excellent communication, mentorship, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Desirable :

• Extensive professional networks within the African and global policy community.
• Experience with innovative research methods (e.g., foresight, data science for policy, action research).
• Media and public engagement experience.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive CV with a cover letter as one document, and three references when applying on the SAIIA website https : / / saiia.org.za / work-with-us / by 25 November 2025. Interviews for this position will take place from mid-January 2026.

Join SAIIA and be part of Africa’s next chapter in research, innovation, and global leadership.

Preference will be given to South African citizens and employment equity candidates. SAIIA reserves the right not to make an appointment.