Vacancy: Programme Officer: Africa and Overseas Partnerships

The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) is a voluntary association of eminent South African scholars and scientists, established in terms of an Act of Parliament. Its primary objective is generating evidence-based solutions to the problems and challenges facing South African society. ASSAf aspires to play both a national and an international role.

The Academy seeks to appoint a Programme Officer: Africa and Overseas Partnerships within the Science Advisory and Strategic Partnerships Programme based in Pretoria.

The incumbent will be responsible for Africa and Overseas collaboration activities including supporting bi/multilateral science advisory under the guidance Manager: Science Advisory and Strategic Partnerships by providing leadership, communication, planning, networking, partnerships’ formulation and maintenance, as well as administration of their portfolio.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Oversee the Africa and Overseas Partnerships of ASSAf.
• Build and maintain bilateral and multilateral relations with African and Overseas academies of science and or related organisations.
• Plan, implement, budget, monitor and evaluate projects that are linked to the portfolio within the Science Advisory and Strategic Partnerships Programme namely but not limited to BRICS, and other African and International Multilateral platforms (e.g. ASADA, AMASA and NASAC, IAP).
• Support cross-boarder science advisory activities.
• Develop and successful delivery of stakeholder engagement plans in accordance with the ASSAf strategy
• Prepare and host workshops, webinars, roundtable and forum logistics including developing agendas, project plans, minute taking and coordinate reporting
• Integration support, coaching and mentoring of junior staff
• Work collaboratively with other members of the ASSAf team
• Undertake any other duties as directed by the Line Manager, the Executive Officer or ASSAf Council in the furtherance of the mandate of the Academy of Science of South Africa.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
• Excellent networking, communication, writing and formulation skills.
• High degree of organizational effectiveness, planning and data management
• Capable of dealing with numerous projects simultaneously
• High sense of responsibility and self-initiative.
• Sound experience in science partnerships, science diplomacy preferably with international exposure
• Knowledge and the ability to work well in a remote team environment

QUALIFICATIONS
– A Master’s degree or equivalent in science, policy development, political science, or related field.
– A PhD would be an added advantage.

EXPERIENCE
At least three years of related professional experience in international partnerships/relations and/or science advise.

The remuneration package for this position will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. All candidates who comply with the minimum requirements are invited to apply. The Academy reserves the right to not make an appointment to the post as advertised.

To apply, please submit a letter of application, a CV and the contact details of two referees to Ms Lynette du Plessis at lynette@assaf.org.za by 19 September 2022.

For more information, contact: Ms Lynette du Plessis on 0716875241

Correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates.