Public Policy Strategist – Agriculture & Development

Fempower; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Development Finance Institution is seeking a Manager : Public Sector Policy to lead transformative policy research and advocacy in South Africa's agricultural sector. The ideal candidate will have a postgraduate qualification and 8-10 years of relevant experience, influencing policy through stakeholder engagement and strategic alignment with national objectives. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape sectoral policy and engage with key decision-makers.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years’ experience in policy research or strategy role.
• Deep understanding of public sector frameworks and government relations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on public and sector policy trends.
• Analyse legislative and regulatory environment for implications.
• Develop strategic policy positions aligned with national objectives.
• Advocate for policy positions with stakeholders and government.
• Drive thought leadership through partnerships and stakeholder engagement.

Skills

Policy Research & Analysis

Strong stakeholder engagement

Strategic Thinking & Advocacy

Report Writing & Presentations

Thought Leadership

Stakeholder Engagement

Agricultural or Development Finance Sector Knowledge

Education

Postgraduate qualification in Public Policy, Development Studies, Economics

Job description

Overview

A leading Development Finance Institution is seeking a Manager : Public Sector Policy to lead policy research, analysis, and advocacy in support of the organisation’s mandate to transform and support South Africa’s agricultural sector. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping national and sectoral policy while enabling access to finance for emerging and commercial farmers.

Be part of a mission-driven organisation influencing sustainable agriculture, economic inclusion, and national development goals. Lead meaningful policy conversations, shape the future of the sector, and engage with top-level decision-makers.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research and monitor public and sector policy trends affecting agriculture and development finance.
• Analyse the legislative and regulatory environment and advise on implications for the institution.
• Develop strategic policy positions and ensure alignment with national objectives (e.g., the NDP).
• Advocate for the organisation’s policy positions with relevant stakeholders and government departments.
• Drive thought leadership through academic and policy partnerships, and stakeholder engagement.
• Contribute to internal strategy through insight-led reporting and presentations to senior leadership.
• Identify policy opportunities for innovation and institutional responsiveness.

Minimum Requirements

• Postgraduate qualification in Public Policy, Development Studies, Economics, or a related field.
• 8–10 years’ experience in a policy research or strategy role, preferably in a development finance, public sector, or agricultural environment.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and lobbying experience.
• Deep understanding of public sector frameworks, government relations, and legislative processes.

Key Competencies

• Policy Research & Analysis
• Public Sector and Government Relations
• Strategic Thinking & Advocacy
• Report Writing & Presentations
• Thought Leadership
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Agricultural or Development Finance Sector Knowledge