Director of Research

SUMMARY:
Director of Research

POSITION INFO:

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.
• 7–10 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