ISS Pretoria: Director of Programmes

The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) is seeking a Director of Programmes. This is a senior management position and the successful candidate will be a member of the ISS’ executive committee at the head office in Pretoria.

The Director will oversee planning and delivery by all ISS programmes in line with the organisation’s 2016-2020 strategy. The successful candidate will ensure high quality delivery of research, policy advice, training and technical assistance, as well as reporting on the outcomes of the ISS’ work. The Director will ensure the strategic alignment of programme activities and collaboration between programme staff across the ISS’ regional offices. The Director of Programmes reports to the Executive Director. 

Overview of duties

Work with programme managers and office heads to ensure strategic alignment of activities and collaboration between programmes and offices

Ensure that programmes deliver high quality research, policy advice, training and technical assistance in line with donor agreements, project objectives and outcomes, and the ISS strategy

Monitor developments in the human security field to provide strategic direction to the ISS

Guide programme managers in the drafting of concept notes, designing of new projects and writing donor reports

Ensure that programme workplans and the overall ISS workplan are in line with the ISS strategy

Ensure that programme budgets align to the overall ISS workplan and the ISS strategy

Support the Executive Director and programme managers with fundraising

Network with similar organisations in Africa and globally

Contribute to the management of the ISS as a member of Excom

Oversee and coordinate the implementation of a PMER framework for programmes

Overview of requirements

At least a Masters degree in international relations, political science, law or a field relevant to the work of the ISS

Strong management skills with at least seven years in a senior management position

Ability to manage staff in a multi-location and diverse environment

A strong team leader with excellent interpersonal skills

Practical experience in research, policy advice, training and/or technical assistance

Extensive knowledge of human security issues as covered by the ISS

Good communication and networking skills

Excellent English writing skills with a publications record

Experience in budget planning and efficient monitoring of expenditure

Willingness to travel extensively in Africa and internationally

The length of 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 pretoriajobs@issafrica.org. Applicants must provide a cover letter and detailed CV, including at least three contactable referees. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Closing date: 29 February 2016

The ISS is committed to achieving employment equity in the workplace. Female applicants are especially encouraged to apply.