Senior Policy Analyst - Social Services

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Senior Policy Analyst role focused on social services in the Western Cape, with emphasis on Stellenbosch. The position blends remote research and on-site engagement for workshops and consultations, requiring strong policy analysis and stakeholder engagement.

The ideal candidate will have substantial research experience and exemplify clear, persuasive communication to influence policy decisions in a hybrid setting.

Qualifications

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Public Policy or related social science.
• At least 6 years of policy analysis, research and advocacy experience.
• Strong quantitative and qualitative research experience.
• Excellent written and verbal policy communication.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy.
• Knowledge of Western Cape social services is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis on social service issues.
• Develop policy briefs, reports and recommendations.
• Monitor and evaluate existing social policies and programs.
• Engage with policymakers and community stakeholders to gather input.
• Organize policy dialogues, workshops and public consultations.
• Stay updated on legislative developments and best practices.
• Represent the organization in policy forums and working groups.
• Contribute to grant proposals and fundraising related to policy advocacy.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns.

Skills

Quantitative research

Qualitative research

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Policy advocacy

Communication skills

Education

Master's or Doctoral degree in Public Policy or related social science

Tools

SPSS

Stata

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a non-governmental organization focused on advocating for improved social services and community welfare, is seeking a highly skilled and analytical Senior Policy Analyst . This crucial role involves researching, developing, and advocating for evidence-based policies that benefit vulnerable populations in the Western Cape, with a specific focus on the Stellenbosch region. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in social policy, strong research methodologies, and excellent communication skills to influence policy decisions. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for remote research and writing, complemented by necessary on-site engagement for meetings, stakeholder consultations, and policy workshops in and around Stellenbosch .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis on social service issues, trends, and policy impacts.
• Develop policy briefs, reports, and recommendations for government agencies, stakeholders, and the public.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of existing social policies and programs.
• Engage with policymakers, community leaders, and service providers to gather input and build consensus.
• Organize and facilitate policy dialogues, workshops, and public consultations.
• Stay abreast of legislative developments and national/international best practices in social policy.
• Represent the organization in policy-related forums, conferences, and working groups.
• Contribute to grant proposals and fundraising efforts related to policy advocacy initiatives.
• Mentor junior research staff and interns.

Requirements

• A Master's or Doctoral degree in Public Policy, Sociology, Social Work, Economics, or a related social science field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in policy analysis, research, and advocacy, preferably in the social services sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Superb written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex policy issues clearly and persuasively.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work setting, managing time efficiently for both remote and on-site tasks.
• Knowledge of the social service landscape in the Western Cape, particularly in Stellenbosch, is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, Stata) and research databases.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, reflective of the senior nature of this role.
• You will have the opportunity to significantly influence social policy and improve the lives of individuals and communities in the Western Cape.
• The hybrid work model offers enhanced flexibility and work-life balance.
• Professional development and opportunities to present research at influential forums are available.
• Join a dedicated team committed to evidence-based advocacy and social justice.
• This is a chance to make a tangible impact on public policy from our base in Stellenbosch.