9 Public Policy jobs in South Africa

A leading Development Finance Institution is seeking a Manager : Public Sector Policy to lead policy research, analysis, and advocacy in support of the organisation’s mandate to transform and support South Africa’s agricultural sector. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping national and sectoral policy while enabling access to finance for emerging and commercial farmers.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct in-depth research and monitor public and sector policy trends affecting agriculture and development finance.

Analyse the legislative and regulatory environment and advise on implications for the institution.

Develop strategic policy positions and ensure alignment with national objectives (e.g., the NDP).

Advocate for the organisation’s policy positions with relevant stakeholders and government departments.

Drive thought leadership through academic and policy partnerships, and stakeholder engagement.

Contribute to internal strategy through insight-led reporting and presentations to senior leadership.

Identify policy opportunities for innovation and institutional responsiveness.

Minimum Requirements

Postgraduate qualification in Public Policy, Development Studies, Economics, or a related field.

8–10 years’ experience in a policy research or strategy role, preferably in a development finance, public sector, or agricultural environment.

Strong stakeholder engagement and lobbying experience.

Deep understanding of public sector frameworks, government relations, and legislative processes.

Key Competencies

• Policy Research & Analysis
• Public Sector and Government Relations
• Strategic Thinking & Advocacy
• Report Writing & Presentations
• Thought Leadership
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Agricultural or Development Finance Sector Knowledge

Be part of a mission-driven organisation influencing sustainable agriculture, economic inclusion, and national development goals. Lead meaningful policy conversations, shape the future of the sector, and engage with top-level decision-makers.

A leading Development Finance Institution is seeking a Manager : Public Sector Policy to lead policy research, analysis, and advocacy in support of the organisation’s mandate to transform and support South Africa’s agricultural sector. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping national and sectoral policy while enabling access to finance for emerging and commercial farmers.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct in-depth research and monitor public and sector policy trends affecting agriculture and development finance.

Analyse the legislative and regulatory environment and advise on implications for the institution.

Develop strategic policy positions and ensure alignment with national objectives (e.g., the NDP).

Advocate for the organisation’s policy positions with relevant stakeholders and government departments.

Drive thought leadership through academic and policy partnerships, and stakeholder engagement.

Contribute to internal strategy through insight-led reporting and presentations to senior leadership.

Identify policy opportunities for innovation and institutional responsiveness.

Minimum Requirements

Postgraduate qualification in Public Policy, Development Studies, Economics, or a related field.

8–10 years’ experience in a policy research or strategy role, preferably in a development finance, public sector, or agricultural environment.

Strong stakeholder engagement and lobbying experience.

Deep understanding of public sector frameworks, government relations, and legislative processes.

Key Competencies

• Policy Research & Analysis
• Public Sector and Government Relations
• Strategic Thinking & Advocacy
• Report Writing & Presentations
• Thought Leadership
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Agricultural or Development Finance Sector Knowledge

Be part of a mission-driven organisation influencing sustainable agriculture, economic inclusion, and national development goals. Lead meaningful policy conversations, shape the future of the sector, and engage with top-level decision-makers.

A leading Development Finance Institution is seeking a Manager: Public Sector Policy  to lead policy research, analysis, and advocacy in support of the organisation’s mandate to transform and support South Africa’s agricultural sector. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to shaping national and sectoral policy while enabling access to finance for emerging and commercial farmers.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research and monitor public and sector policy trends affecting agriculture and development finance.

• Analyse the legislative and regulatory environment and advise on implications for the institution.

• Develop strategic policy positions and ensure alignment with national objectives (e.g., the NDP).

• Advocate for the organisation’s policy positions with relevant stakeholders and government departments.

• Drive thought leadership through academic and policy partnerships, and stakeholder engagement.

• Contribute to internal strategy through insight-led reporting and presentations to senior leadership.

• Identify policy opportunities for innovation and institutional responsiveness.

Minimum Requirements

• Postgraduate qualification in Public Policy, Development Studies, Economics, or a related field.

• 8–10 years’ experience in a policy research or strategy role, preferably in a development finance, public sector, or agricultural environment.

• Strong stakeholder engagement and lobbying experience.

• Deep understanding of public sector frameworks, government relations, and legislative processes.

Key Competencies

? Policy Research & Analysis
? Public Sector and Government Relations
? Strategic Thinking & Advocacy
? Report Writing & Presentations
? Thought Leadership
? Stakeholder Engagement
? Agricultural or Development Finance Sector Knowledge

Be part of a mission-driven organisation influencing sustainable agriculture, economic inclusion, and national development goals. Lead meaningful policy conversations, shape the future of the sector, and engage with top-level decision-makers.

The Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa (Land Bank) is South Africa’s only specialist agricultural bank, established in 1912. The bank’s sole objective is to serve South African commercial and emerging farmers by providing tailored financial services. These services enable farmers to finance land, equipment, improve assets, and obtain production credit. Land Bank offers financial services that adapt to industry changes and continually reviews its offerings to meet the evolving needs of the sector. As the sector has changed, with new entrants from historically disadvantaged backgrounds establishing sustainable agri-businesses, Land Bank has been a vital financial lifeline, offering products that support personal and commercial viability in this crucial industry.

Main Purpose of the Job

1. To conduct research and analyse public and sector policy developments that impact or could impact the Bank’s mandate and effectiveness.
2. To recommend policy positions for the Bank to support its mandate.
3. To undertake policy advocacy with key stakeholders and institutions to promote the Bank’s policy positions and influence policy outcomes in support of South Africa’s NDP objectives.

As a Junior Lecturer in Public Administration, you’ll play a key role in developing future-ready public sector professionals by delivering dynamic and engaging learning experiences. You will support module delivery, conduct student consultations, and contribute to curriculum enhancement and academic research. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking academic institution committed to excellence, accessibility, and innovation.

Duties :

Teach modules such as Public Policy, Governance, Public Sector Ethics, and Local Government Management

Assist with course planning, content development, and academic administration

Mark and moderate assessments in line with institutional standards

Provide individual and group student support, both in-person and online

Participate in programme coordination, quality assurance, and curriculum review

Contribute to research and participate in academic forums or conferences

Benefits :

Structured academic mentorship and professional development

Opportunities to contribute to governance and policy-based research

Supportive, student-centered teaching culture

Access to online education tools and digital learning infrastructure

Requirements :

Bachelor of Public Administration or related Honours degree (NQF 8 minimum)

Solid understanding of public sector frameworks and service delivery issues

Good facilitation, presentation, and written communication skills

Experience in tutoring, public administration projects, or educational support preferred

Competency in digital tools and online teaching platforms

Policy and Public Affairs Adviser - New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria

Date : Jul 5     Location : Pretoria, ZA

Description :

The New Zealand High Commission in Pretoria is seeking a full-time Policy and Public Affairs Adviser. The role focuses on:

• Political, economic, and regulatory analysis
• Promoting New Zealand trade
• Supporting engagement by visiting New Zealand officials and businesses in South Africa and other accredited countries
• Managing the High Commission’s social media

Key responsibilities include conducting research, building networks across government, private sector, academia, and civil society, drafting policy reports, organizing visits and events, attending meetings, creating social media content, and drafting official correspondence. The role may involve domestic and international travel.

We are looking for someone who is open-minded, curious, flexible, organized, proactive, and able to work independently. A positive attitude and good sense of humor are essential. Teamwork and adaptability are highly valued.

We offer a welcoming environment with attractive terms, including a market-related salary (dependent on skills and experience), medical and social insurance, and a supportive, inclusive workplace. The High Commission is based in Pretoria and accredited to several countries in the region, as part of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

To apply, please email your application with the subject line "Job Application: Policy and Public Affairs Adviser" including:

• A cover letter (max two pages) explaining your motivation
• A CV outlining relevant skills and experience
• Contact details of two referees (one recent employer or manager)

Applications must be sent via email; applications submitted through the online button will not be considered. The deadline is 5:00 pm on Friday, 8 August (South African time). Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a written assessment and interview. The start date is as soon as possible.

Please note: This position is subject to South African employment law. You must have the right to work in South Africa, possess a valid driver’s license, and be able to obtain a passport for travel. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. A detailed position description is available.

• Conduct research on land reform, tenure security, and geospatial policy development in alignment with the DALRRD project objectives.
• Assist in data collection, integration, and analysis for land ownership audits and land worth estimation.
• Support geospatial analysis and mapping for land redistribution and agricultural potential.
• Participate in stakeholder engagement workshops and capacity-building initiatives.
• Contribute to policy development and implementation frameworks for scalable land reform. 
• Write reports, policy briefs, and scientific articles based on research findings

• PhD bursary (1 Position) : MSc degree in Land Economics / Geospatial Sciences / Agricultural Policy / Development Studies / Environmental Management / Sociology (with a focus on land reform).
• MSc bursary (2 Position) : BSc Honours degree in Geospatial Sciences / Agricultural Economics / Land Management / Development Studies / Environmental Science.
• Hons bursary (3 Position): BSc degree in Geospatial Sciences / Agricultural Economics / Land Management / Development Studies / Environmental Science.
• Strong analytical and statistical skills, with experience in GIS and remote sensing tools preferred.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) for stakeholder engagement and report writing.
• Willingness to travel to rural and peri-urban areas for fieldwork and data collection.
• Valid driver's licence (code 08/EB).

Enquiries: Prof KAA Abutaleb, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 13 AUGUST 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments). 

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

Regulatory Project Manager & Policy Analyst

Location : Remote (open to international candidates - SA & LATAM preferred)

Compensation : $2500 $3500 / month USD

Industry : Energy Policy & Regulatory Consulting

Schedule : Full-time Flexibility required to align with U.S. time zones

About the Role

We are seeking a highly organized and motivated Regulatory Project Manager & Policy Analyst to join a dynamic consulting team focused on energy markets utility regulation and public policy. This role combines operational project management with regulatory coordination and policy research ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced detail-oriented environment.

You ll help track and manage utility commission proceedings legislative actions and client initiatives while contributing to the analysis and strategic planning needed to navigate today s evolving energy landscape.

This is a fully remote position with the opportunity to work on impactful energy issues alongside experienced consultants and forward-thinking clients.

Key Responsibilities

Regulatory & Legislative Operations

• Monitor deadlines dockets and procedural schedules for regulatory and legislative activity
• Assist with preparing and formatting comment letters testimonies and compliance documents
• Maintain well-organized filing systems and internal documentation for client projects
• Coordinate review workflows and submission timelines with internal stakeholders

Project Management

• Use tools like Trello and shared trackers to manage timelines across multiple engagements
• Organize agendas take meeting notes and follow up with responsible team members
• Support the on-time delivery of high-quality client work

Policy Analysis & Research

• Conduct background research on energy regulation legislative developments and agency actions
• Draft memos summaries and briefing materials for clients and internal use
• Assist with stakeholder engagement materials and public-facing policy content

Client Support & Administrative Coordination

• Prepare professional-quality client communications and presentation materials
• Help schedule and coordinate meetings hearings and stakeholder sessions
• Ensure consistency clarity and formatting quality in client and regulatory documents

Requirements

• 5 - 10 years of experience in regulatory coordination policy analysis legal support or consulting
• Background in the energy environmental legal or public policy sectors
• Excellent written communication and formatting skills
• Strong organizational habits and attention to detail
• Experience using Microsoft Office Trello (or similar) and cloud-based collaboration tools
• Adaptability and comfort with digital productivity tools including AI-enhanced platforms
• Bachelor s degree in public policy political science legal studies energy / environmental studies or a related field

Why Join

• Mission-Driven Work : Help shape energy policy and regulatory outcomes with real-world impact
• Skill Growth : Build experience in regulation consulting and project delivery across multiple areas
• Modern Culture : Work in a tech-forward remote-first environment with a focus on purpose and autonomy
• Tight-Knit Team : Collaborate with experienced professionals working on complex national-level energy challenges

Key Skills

Invasive Cardiology,Access Control System,B2C,Lorry Driving,Call Centre,Entry Level Finance

Employment Type : Full Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1