Partnerships & Programme Lead, SA-TIED

United Nations University; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

UNU-WIDER in South Africa invites applications for the Associate Partnerships & Programme Officer, SA-TIED. The role coordinates day-to-day implementation, supports governance, policy engagement, and donor reporting to advance inclusive economic development in southern Africa.

The successful candidate will have a Master’s degree in economics, public policy, development studies, or related field, plus at least two years of relevant experience in research or policy environments and strong

Qualifications

• At least two (2) years of progressively responsible work experience, including managing research programmes in academia, policy research, or related institutions, together with supervisory functions is required.
• Experience in programme management within research or policy environments is required.
• Proven track record of working at the intersection of research and government is required.
• Experience in working in South Africa with academic and policy partners, and strong knowledge of local institutional settings is required.
• Understanding of South Africa’s policy frameworks and socio-economic development issues.
• Familiarity with international development agendas and evidence-based policymaking.
• Strong team management capabilities.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Highly self-motivated, innovative, and organised, yet detail-oriented, with a professional and conscientious attitude and the ability to independently prioritise.
• An excellent team player with strong interpersonal skills, as demonstrated by the ability to work in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Responsibilities

• Day-to-day implementation: Coordinate SA-TIED programme activities with UNU-WIDER South Africa and global teams; prepare work plans, budgets, results frameworks, and donor reporting.
• Programme management and operations: Plan workshops and events; coordinate procurement, recruitment, contracting, and travel.
• Policy bridging and uptake: Contribute to policy dialogue and dissemination of research findings.
• Institutional development and partnerships: Strengthen partnerships with government, donors, academic institutions, UN organizations and other stakeholders.
• Supervision and guidance: Provide day-to-day coordination and support to programme personnel, including mentoring and performance management.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Skills

Programme management

Policy engagement

Partnerships

Donor reporting

Supervision

SA familiarity

Communication skills

Education

Master’s degree in economics, public policy, development studies, or a related discipline

Job description

UNU-WIDER in South Africa invites applications for the Associate Partnerships & Programme Officer, SA-TIED. The role coordinates day-to-day implementation, supports governance, policy engagement, and donor reporting to advance inclusive economic development in southern Africa.

The successful candidate will have a Master’s degree in economics, public policy, development studies, or related field, plus at least two years of relevant experience in research or policy environments and strong