Overview of duties 

• Stay abreast of developments in crime and policing in South Africa and internationally, monitor relevant literature and attend relevant meetings
• Initiate, plan and undertake primary and secondary research
• Produce and disseminate research findings through publications and other formats appropriate to the target audiences, including meetings, briefings, seminars and visual media
• Maintain proactive relationships with key partners, donors and government officials
• Conduct media interviews
• Convene seminars, closed briefings and roundtables, and present research findings at ISS events and other relevant forums
• Assist in identifying new opportunities for funding, draft concept notes and proposals, and manage a budget
• Provide technical assistance to government departments with a view to promoting evidence-based policing
• Contribute to the ISS’ work and respond to changes in the national environment and to opportunities to support policy development and implementation as they arise

Overview of requirements

• Minimum of a Master’s qualification in the social sciences; specialist knowledge of policing in South Africa and internationally would be an advantage
• A good existing network of contacts in the NGO sector and in government
• At least 10 years of research and policy experience
• Strong networking, facilitation and interpersonal skills, in particular the ability to work in partnership with governments and civil society
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, and the ability to communicate in Afrikaans
• Track record of relevant publications
• Ability to work independently, conceptualise and implement research and advocacy projects, and experience working remotely (i.e. not office-based)
• Practical experience with proposal writing, and managing and reporting on budgets and projects
• Experience in and a willingness to work in a diverse team
• The position is based in the Western Cape and the candidate must be willing to travel