The ISS seeks a dynamic leader with specialist knowledge of crime, policing, justice and violence prevention in South Africa, and the ability to manage teams of professionals.

The successful candidate must be familiar with the country’s policy, legislative and institutional landscape, and have a strong commitment to developing practical, evidence-based solutions. An established network within South Africa’s policing, justice and civil society sectors is essential.

The programme head needs strong managerial skills to guide a multidisciplinary team working on research, policy engagement and capacity building. The ability to identify new opportunities, raise funds and engage donors and partners is also vital.

ISS programme heads are independent thinkers. They achieve results by enabling motivated, capable teams and ensuring efficient programme and financial administration. Programme heads are comfortable performing a wide range of tasks – from representing ISS on international panels, to developing innovative projects and co-creating solutions with government and civil society partners.

The successful candidate will report to the Executive Director.

• Set the programme’s strategic direction
• Lead on fundraising, donor liaison and reporting
• Ensure financial and budget planning and controls
• Provide team leadership, manage staff and assess performance
• Ensure quality control and delivery of outputs and outcomes in line with donor agreements and the ISS strategic plan
• Represent the ISS at high-level meetings in Africa and globally
• Ensure effective communication of results to target audiences
• Monitor and evaluate programme work
• Serve on the ISS Management Committee and contribute to ISS’ strategic direction

• A Master’s degree in social sciences, law, humanities or equivalent; a PhD is desirable
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience at a senior management level in a policy research or policy-making environment, international organisation or government
• Specialist knowledge of South Africa’s criminal justice system, crime trends, policing and violence prevention, including the policy, legislative and institutional landscape
• Extensive experience managing projects and teams involved in qualitative and quantitative research, technical assistance and training
• Demonstrated success leading diverse, multi-location teams and managing organisational governance
• An established network of stakeholders within South Africa’s justice, policing and violence prevention sectors; additional networks at the regional and international level will be an advantage
• Experience in designing and managing policy research and technical assistance programmes, including analysing information and developing practical recommendations
• A proven track record of building stakeholder relationships to shape policy and drive action
• Demonstrated fundraising experience, including donor engagement and reporting; experience with bilateral donors and foundations is an advantage
• Strong understanding of monitoring and evaluation, and the use of Results-Based Management frameworks
• Exceptional English communication skills (verbal and written) and proficiency in at least one other official South African language

The contract will be for two years and may be renewed subject to programme requirements, funding and satisfactory performance. A competitive salary is offered.

Email your application to Rekha Valabh at [email protected]. Applicants must provide a cover letter and detailed CV, including at least three contactable referees. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Closing date: 6 April 2026