Director of Research

HR Genie; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 600 000 - 1 750 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading public policy think tank seeks a visionary Director of Research to provide intellectual and strategic leadership for its diverse research portfolio. The ideal candidate will have 710 years of senior research leadership experience and a strong publication record, ensuring research translates into meaningful policy influence. The role is based in Johannesburg, South Africa and offers a salary between 1.6-1.75 million p.a.

Qualifications

• 710 years of senior research leadership experience.
• Strong publication record with ability to mobilise research for policy impact.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and managing donor relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement research strategy aligned with policy landscape.
• Mentor and manage research teams, fostering excellence.
• Secure and manage research funding for institutional sustainability.

Skills

Research leadership

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Postgraduate degree (Masters or PhD) in relevant field

Job description

Overview

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.
• 710 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 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.