13 Public Policy jobs in South Africa

Responsibilities
The Global Public Policy & Government Affairs team's work spans across a broad and diverse range of functions and workstreams, including government affairs and government relations; policy and issue area expertise; risk and crisis management and mitigation; outreach, coalitions, and partnerships; and corporate social responsibility. The mission of the Global Public Policy team is to prevent, manage, and mitigate political, legislative, and regulatory threats to TikTok and to promote a political, legislative, and regulatory environment that supports growth and innovation for our business.

We are looking to hire a dynamic and agile Government Relations and Public Policy Leader to define and execute our GR efforts in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The ideal candidate must be a strategic thinker and a strong team player with the ability to exercise good judgment in a rapidly changing environment. The candidate must have a good understanding of the region's public policy challenges, political systems, institutions, and cultural landscape; and, solid networks and relationships with Sub-Saharan policy-makers, multilateral agencies, academia, and civil society stakeholders.

The SSA Government Relations and Public Policy Leader is part of the METAPSA GR team and is responsible for overseeing regional policy issues and crisis management across Sub-Saharan Africa. The role reports to the Deputy Director of Government Relations and Public Policy for the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, Pakistan, and South Asia.

The candidate must bring experience in policy assessment, risk management, and proven leadership and organizational skills. Experience in a technology company is preferred. They should be a flexible problem-solver with strong communication skills, able to collaborate effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders. The role also requires the ability to work independently and with agility in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead TikTok's government relations and public policy strategy in Sub-Saharan Africa, ensuring alignment with regional regulations and policy frameworks on data protection, privacy, safety, IP, content policy, and other tech-relevant issues.

• Build and maintain strategic, long-term relationships with governments, regulators, NGOs, academia, think tanks, and other key stakeholders across the region.

• Actively identify and assess emerging policy issues and political/social trends, advising internal teams on risks and opportunities.

• Develop and execute advocacy and engagement campaigns to advance TikTok's policy positions and strengthen its reputation across SSA.

• Serve as a senior external representative of TikTok, clearly communicating policy positions and helping local communities better understand the platform.

• Guide and support local teams in mitigating operational and regulatory risks.

• Manage and mentor a team of three, setting strategic priorities and ensuring high-quality execution.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading public policy, government relations, or advocacy, with a proven ability to build and manage strategic relationships with governments, regulators, and key stakeholders.

• Deep understanding of public policy issues relevant to technology (e.g., data protection, privacy, content, IP, safety) and the regulatory landscape across Sub-Saharan Africa.

• Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives and working effectively with legal, policy, communications, and product teams in complex organizations.

• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing and mentoring teams.

• Excellent judgment, persuasive communication, and advocacy skills, with the ability to operate in fast-paced and evolving environments.

• Established networks and relationships with policymakers, civil society, academia, and the technology industry across SSA.

• Master's degree in law, public policy, international relations, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).

Preferred Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of the region's political systems, institutions, and cultural landscape.

• Ability to travel frequently and adapt to diverse cultural and professional environments.

About TikTok
TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. At TikTok, our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. TikTok's global headquarters are in Los Angeles and Singapore, and we also have offices in New York City, London, Dublin, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo.

Why Join Us
Inspiring creativity is at the core of TikTok's mission. Our innovative product is built to help people authentically express themselves, discover and connect – and our global, diverse teams make that possible. Together, we create value for our communities, inspire creativity and bring joy - a mission we work towards every day.

We strive to do great things with great people. We lead with curiosity, humility, and a desire to make impact in a rapidly growing tech company. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and innovate as one team. We're resilient and embrace challenges as they come. By constantly iterating and fostering an "Always Day 1" mindset, we achieve meaningful breakthroughs for ourselves, our company, and our users. When we create and grow together, the possibilities are limitless. Join us.

Diversity & Inclusion

TikTok is committed to creating an inclusive space where employees are valued for their skills, experiences, and unique perspectives. Our platform connects people from across the globe and so does our workplace. At TikTok, our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. To achieve that goal, we are committed to celebrating our diverse voices and to creating an environment that reflects the many communities we reach. We are passionate about this and hope you are too.

The Competition Commission is on a search for high-achieving graduates seeking to deepen their expertise in competition economics to join our 2026 Cadet Training Programme (Graduate Development) for a period of 24 Months.

This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the fields of competition law and economics, whilst making a meaningful contribution to South Africa's economy by advancing the Commission's Vision 2030 of a Competitive, Dynamic, Deconcentrated and Inclusive economy that serves all South Africans.

On successful completion of the programme, Cadets may apply for growth opportunities within the Commission. As a young and developmental organisation, we actively promote a culture of learning and provide a strong platform to nurture talent.

If you meet the criteria below and are eager to build your aptitude in analysing complex economic or legal issues, look no further than the Competition Commission. We look forward to reviewing your application

An annual total cost to company stipend of R ,43

This programme is available on a two-year fixed term contract.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

We are looking for a dynamic, hardworking and committed individual who meets the following requirements:

• Must be a South African Citizen.
• A completed Master's degree (or equivalent postgraduate qualification) with 6 -12 months research exposure in one of the following fields: Public Policy, Monitoring & Evaluation, Strategic Management and/or Corporate Strategy, Public Administration, Public Management, or Planning and a comparatively good academic average record.
• 70% and above academic average record will be an added advantage.
• No more than 12 months work experience in related legal or same field.
• Evidence of proactive engagement in initiatives or service beyond academic coursework, demonstrating commitment to public interest and societal impact.
• A great team player with excellent interpersonal, writing and communication skills.
• Demonstrated analytical, research and investigative abilities.
• Evidence of notable achievements earned during your studies and admission journey.
• Computer literacy

We offer:

• A competitive compensation & benefits structure.
• A supportive and stimulating working environment.
• Exposure to excellent training opportunities.
• The opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the dynamic and growing field of competition law in South Africa
• An opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the attainment of the Commission's Vision 2030 of a Competitive, Dynamic, Deconcentrated and Inclusive economy that serves all South Africans.

Employment Equity:

• Over and above operational requirements, our appointment will take into account the country's and organisational Employment Equity imperatives.

Diversity and Inclusion:

• Persons with Disability are encouraged to apply.
• The Commission is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Application Process:

• All international qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA accreditation certificate.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo psychometric assessments.
• The successful candidate will be vetted for security purposes.
• The Commission reserves the right not to fill this position subject to budget, organisational priorities and other considerations

Closing Date: 10 October 2025 at 17h00.

If you meet all the criteria above and are looking for an exciting opportunity to make a difference to our economy, then look no further than the Competition Commission We look forward to receiving your comprehensive CV.

PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLY ONLINE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED. FEEDBACK WILL BE LIMITED TO SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES ONLY. THE COMMISSION RESERVES THE RIGHT NOT TO PROCEED WITH THE APPOINTMENT OF ANY VACANT AND ADVERTISED POSITION.

For more info, please contact the Commission Talent Acquisition Desk on

The
European Institute of Policy Research and Human Rights
is a prestigious institution that offers cutting-edge online programs designed to educate future leaders in policy research, human rights, and related disciplines. Our mission is to deliver world-class skill enhancing programs to candidates globally, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to influence policy and drive positive change in their communities.

Applications are invited for
Junior Research Fellowship
(for candidates enrolled / passed Bachelors / Masters / Doctoral in any discipline)

Program Overview

• Learn and follow our methodology to draft research paper in one of the researchable areas. (No prior experience in research paper writing is required, Candidates will receive comprehensive mentorship and guidance throughout the process / tenure.) Program Certification of Eur297 is applicable. As a Certified Junior Research Fellow is a significant achievement a valuable addition to your CV that can impress future employers, universities, or scholarship committees. It helps set you apart with a unique edge.

What You'll Do:

• Learn and Lead Groundbreaking Research: Know how to Tackle important policy issues and devise groundbreaking solutions.
• Collaborate with Experts
• Strategic Analysis: Utilize data to create influential policy recommendations.
• Publish & Impact: Contribute your findings to esteemed academic and policy publications.

Candidate will be choosing one of the researchable research areas for their research.

Research papers produced by candidates will be published with a Digital Object Identifier (DOI), ensuring the work is uniquely identifiable and accessible through our open-source publication portal.

Eligibility Criteria / Who Can Apply:

• Open to candidates who are currently enrolled in or have completed a Bachelor, Masters or Doctoral program, as well as alumni from any university.
• Applicants from all academic disciplines are welcome, including but not limited to Law, Human Rights, International Relations, Management, Political Science, Social Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Business, and related fields.
• Working / non working professionals in any sector are encouraged to apply. This includes lecturers, professors, advocates, medical professionals, journalists, engineers, historians, managers, environmental scientists, government officials, social activists, and those involved in politics or any relevant field.
• Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work independently in a virtual environment and effectively meet deadlines.

How To Apply
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted with complete details.

Working at Citi is far more than just a job. A career with us means joining a team of more than 230,000 dedicated people from around the globe. At Citi, you'll have the opportunity to grow your career, give back to your community and make a real impact.

The Citi Public Affairs Officer (PAO) is the guardian of Citi's reputation in the marketplace, covering all businesses for Citi in the East and South African region, based in South Africa. These countries include Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and South Africa.

The PAO will be responsible for coordinating and driving Citi's ESPA's efforts across the region. The PAO supports the country CCOs in preserving and enhancing the bank's image in the marketplace and provides the businesses with strategic and focused communications counsel in support of their growth objectives. The functional areas typically covered by the PAO include media relations; internal communications; community affairs including charitable grants, NGO relationship management and employee volunteering; branding; advertising and coordination of events and sponsorships.

As a member of the country coordinating committee, the PAO acts as counselor to each of the business heads, supporting them to execute their duties in such a way as to maintain and strengthen the bank's reputation amongst:

• Employees.
• Customers.
• Media.
• Opinion formers/Influencers.
• Government and regulators (although a separate function addresses direct relations with regulators).

This will involve a familiarity with banking practices, products and policies; a solid record of successful communications campaigns; excellent written and oral communications skills; media management and crisis communications experience; capacity to work with people at all levels of seniority; interest in and enthusiasm to be part of a large, multinational corporation based in South Africa with all its commensurate opportunities and challenges.

With oversight of all communication activities in the countries, the PAO is charged with ensuring that they remain consistent, coordinated and effective in conveying the group's key messages. They must also liaise with the regional PAO and their colleagues in other markets so that this consistency is maintained as audiences increasingly receive messages from multiple channels across borders.

Qualifications:

• 10 + years of relevant experience, must have experience managing multiple country stakeholders

Education:

• Bachelor's/University degree, Master's degree preferred

The Public Affairs Officer:

• Provides public affairs counsel and support to all core businesses in the country and to Citi Country Officers across East and South Africa – developing public affairs plans that reflect the business/franchise goals.
• Develop an integrated media strategy that supports the region and is aligned with ESPA's goals including building relationships with key target media.
• Develop an integrated internal communications and employee engagement strategy and social media strategy that supports the region and is aligned with ESPA's goals
• Develops and executes community relations programs in line with the priorities established by the Citi Foundation.
• Develops and executes crisis management plans as required
• Tracks positioning of competitors and issues/market developments likely to impact the company or industry – preparing action plans/responses as appropriate.
• Manages special events – conferences/seminars corporate sponsorships etc.

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Job Family Group:

Communications and External Relations

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Job Family:

Corporate Affairs

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Time Type:

Full time

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Most Relevant Skills

Please see the requirements listed above.

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Other Relevant Skills

For complementary skills, please see above and/or contact the recruiter.

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Citi is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you are a person with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to use our search tools and/or apply for a career opportunity review Accessibility at Citi .

View Citi's EEO Policy Statement and the Know Your Rights poster.

At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

The Position

At Roche Diagnostics, we develop solutions and services that advance human health, with a passionate team of over 37,000 individuals across 50+ countries shaping the future of healthcare.

As the Communications and Public Affairs Manager for Diagnostics in Africa, you'll lead strategic communication initiatives that inspire, engage, and influence key external stakeholders in the healthcare community across the African continent. Partnering closely with internal leaders and teams, you'll be the architect of impactful narratives, campaigns, and frameworks, translating business strategies into communication plans that contribute to healthcare transformation across the region.

By sharing Roche's powerful story with patients, customers, thought leaders, and employees, you'll take on the meaningful challenge of strengthening our reputation and creating a lasting impact on the healthcare industry in Africa.

Key Challenges

• Aligning regional goals and company objectives to deliver compelling, stakeholder-focused communication strategies in Africa's complex healthcare landscape.
• Advising senior leaders with precision, tact, and foresight to navigate high-stakes crises and issues with confidence and resilience.
• Collaborating across a matrixed, highly networked organization to influence decision-making, align global priorities, and bring transformative ideas to life.
• Managing multiple, fast-paced communication projects with grace under pressure while navigating ambiguity and continuously evolving business landscapes.
• Staying at the forefront of healthcare trends and external developments to adapt strategies proactively in a VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) environment.

Who You Are as Our Ideal Candidate

You are a dynamic and accomplished communications professional deeply skilled in public affairs and external stakeholder engagement, with a proven passion for navigating complex, regulated industries like healthcare.

• Strategic Partner: You possess 8-10 years of experience in marketing, communications, or public affairs with a track record of creating and executing integrated campaigns. You excel in providing sound counsel on crisis management strategies to senior leaders. Your enterprise mindset enables you to connect the dots between local and global strategies with agility and foresight.
• Effective Storyteller: With outstanding storytelling skills, you deliver messages that resonate and inspire action. You have a natural ability to simplify complex topics and articulate them with purpose and clarity.
• Trusted Advisor: Your interpersonal finesse allows you to build strong, sustainable partnerships with senior executives and external stakeholders alike. In all interactions, you balance influence, collaboration, and diplomacy.
• Organized and Agile: You excel under pressure, seamlessly prioritizing multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines. Your self-motivation thrives both in collaborating and working independently within self-organized teams.
• Experienced Professional: You hold a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or government affairs (or equivalent). Fluency in English (verbal and written) and a strong grasp of healthcare/diagnostics industries are essential for this role.

What's In It for You

At Roche, we believe in empowering our people to contribute to a future shaped by innovation, compassion, and care. When you join Rochelle, you'll gain access to a world-class environment that nurtures your growth, values your contribution, and prioritizes your well-being.

• Impact: Be part of a company that's not just making products but revolutionizing healthcare and positively impacting lives every single day.
• Flexibility: Thrive in a dynamic, non-hierarchical work culture, where flexibility, autonomy, and collaboration are at the forefront.
• Development: Grow with unparalleled learning and development opportunities in a global organization committed to cultivating your career.
• Inclusivity: Experience a workplace where every voice matters, diversity is celebrated, and employees across the world come together as one Roche family.
• Purposeful Work: Contribute to shaping healthcare transformation in Africa, a region with boundless potential to make a difference.

At Roche, it's more than just work—it's about belonging to a community deeply dedicated to delivering better outcomes for society, while fostering your personal and professional aspirations.

Are you ready to be a driving force for communications and healthcare transformation in Africa? Apply today and be part of a team that's reshaping the future of health.

Who we are

A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100'000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.

Let's build a healthier future, together.

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.