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HUMAN SCIENCE RESEARCH COUNCIL (HSRC)
STAKEHOLDER AND PARTNERSHIP OFFICER
Details
Closing Date
2026/07/24
Reference Number
HSR260707-1
Job Type
Permanent
Job Title
Stakeholder and Partnership Officer
Business Area
Research Impact Division
Department
Research Impact Division
Number of Positions
1
Workplace Type
Hybrid
Location - Town / City
Pretoria
Location - Province
Gauteng
Location - Country
South Africa
Minimum Education Level
NQF 7 - Degree or equivalent
Application Closing Date
24-Jul-2026
Job Category
Other
Job Advert Summary
In delivering ‘social science that makes a difference’ in South Africa and the region, the Research Units of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.
The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.
The Research Impact Division comprises four interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Evaluation; HSRC Press; Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development; Internationalisation; and Governance, Ethics and Integrity. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant but also transformative to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.
The Division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified Stakeholder and Partnership Officer within the HSRC’s Pretoria based office. This is a full-time, permanent appointment.
Stakeholder and Partnership Officer
(Ref. No. Stakeholder & Partner 07/2026)
Pretoria
Minimum Requirements
- A relevant NQF 7 degree in social sciences is preferably in Public Administration, International Relations, Development Studies or Business Administration.
- 3–5 Years’ experience working in research, university, and or training and development environment or related private or NGO sector.
- Familiarity with social sciences research landscape is essential
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- A proven track record in building and fostering successful relationships and partnerships across different sectors.
- The ability to multitask and to work well under deadline pressure with high levels of energy.
- A respect for diversity and the inclusion of varying views.
- The ability to interface with people at all levels within an organisation or institution.
- A strong user orientation, based on a commitment to social research that makes a difference.
- High levels of computer literacy and experience is required (Excel, Microsoft Word).
Duties & Responsibilities
- Responsible for supporting the development, coordination, and management of institutional partnerships.
- Facilitating the initiation, development, implementation, and monitoring of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) Memorandum of Agreements (MoAs) and related institutional-level collaboration agreements.
- Supports strategic partnership engagements, institutional visibility, and reporting on partnership impact.
- Support partnership initiation meetings and stakeholder engagement.
- Profile institutional research capabilities and researchers to support collaboration opportunities
- Contribute to the review and development strategy for the unit
Please register and submit your application on-line at https://hsrc.erecruit.co/
- Candidates can make use of their mobile devices or any browser to register on the Neptune recruitment site, as well as to make applications for available vacancies; Candidates will be prompted to upload their CV’s;
- Attachments must be less than 1MB, there is an on-screen option to resize.
- The Neptune system will only allow you to upload 1 attachment. Please ensure that all documents are merged into 1 file before uploading.
- A cover letter of motivation indicating your suitability and goals for the position.
- A detailed CV which should clearly indicate your highest qualification; an indication of your quantitative and qualitative research experience; your fieldwork experience (not related to your degree) and include details of your citizenship.
- The details of three recent referees with telephone/cell number, e-mail, and institutional affiliation.
- Details of citizenship
- A certified ID copy
The HSRC will only consider applications that comply with the above requirements.
- Please note that applicants may be subject to a competency assessment pertaining to this position.
For further information about the HSRC or the post please consult our website (www.hsrc.ac.za). Enquiries, to application process, can be directed to Ms Aurelia Smith at asmith@hsrc.ac.za and those relating to technical knowledge for the positions (NOT applications or CVs) may be directed to Dr Mzikazi Nduna: MNduna@hsrc.ac.za
Closing date: 24 July 2026.
We encourage applicants to submit prior to this date. Applicants who have not been contacted within eight weeks should assume that their application has been unsuccessful. Only applicants who are interviewed will be advised of the outcome of their applications.
The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
APPLICATIONS FROM RECRUITMENT AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
Policy
In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.
The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.
The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.
The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.
DIRECTOR: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTERNAL CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT
Details
Closing Date
2026/07/24
Reference Number
HSR260707-3
Job Type
Permanent
Job Title
Director: Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development
Business Area
External Capacity Development and Internships
Department
Research Impact Division
Number of Positions
1
Workplace Type
Hybrid
Location - Town / City
Pretoria
Location - Province
Gauteng
Location - Country
South Africa
Minimum Education Level
NQF 9 - Masters Degree or equivalent
Application Closing Date
24-Jul-2026
Job Category
Management
Job Advert Summary
In delivering ‘social science that makes a difference’ in South Africa and the region, the Research Units of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.
The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.
The Research Impact Division comprises four interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Evaluation; HSRC Press; Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development; Internationalisation; and Governance, Ethics and Integrity. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant but also transformative to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.
The Division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified Director: Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development (SPECD). The successful incumbent has to be a decisive leader, who engages at a strategic level. The role involves,
- Knowledge of the National System of Innovation, policies on youth and skills development.
- Appreciation of the challenges in the South African youth's access to the labour market
- Knowledge and understanding of the public and private funding landscape
- Ability to network and negotiate with partners and key stakeholders.
- Proactive with a problem-solving mindset, advanced organisational skills, the ability to multitask and with great attention to detail.
- Can foster Intergovernmental relations
- Proven experience with stakeholder management.
This is a full-time, permanent appointment, based in the HSRC’s Pretoria office.
Minimum Requirements
- A relevant Masters degree in Humanities/Social Sciences, Business Administration /Development, Developmental Studies, International Relations or related fields.
- A PhD degree is an added advantage.
- 8 Years experience in research, university, and or training and development environment.
- Experience leading teams and a sound understanding of the social science research process.
- Experience with annual business development (planning) and budgeting processes
- Proven track record in multiple project management
- Experience working with the government
- Experience working in the funding environment (SETAs/Development funders/Philanthropic agencies, etc.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Provides strategic leadership and oversight in the implementation of partnership priorities of the HSRC and facilitates business partnerships as well as the implementation of external capacity development programmes.
- Lead the planning and compilation of the Unit’s annual budget aligned to the operational plans to support the implementation of the Annual Performance Plan (APP)
- Engages relevant groups of stakeholders at the highest level in making key decisions while clearly articulating the HSRC’s stance on matters and to ensure preservation of the organisations' interests.
- Lead and support the teams in implementing a strategy for the unit and ensure alignment with the strategic objectives of the HSRC overall.
- Support the organisation-wide implementation of strategic business plans and oversee strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagements.
- Build visible national, continental and international research partnerships that result in impactful and collaborative MoU/As, that are implemented at an institutional level.
- Identify opportunities for research and external funding that could advance the HSRC’s work in addressing youth employment, skills shortages and learning opportunities post-schooling.
- Lead the drafting of quarterly reports to all funders.
- Build, lead and mentor an effective team that works collaboratively toward achieving the organisation's goals and promoting the HSRC brand identity and values.
Please register and submit your application on-line at https://hsrc.erecruit.co/
Application Instructions:
- Candidates can make use of their mobile devices or any browser to register on the Neptune recruitment site, as well as to make applications for available vacancies; Candidates will be prompted to upload their CV’s;
- Attachments must be less than 1MB, there is an on-screen option to resize.
- The Neptune system will only allow you to upload 1 attachment. Please ensure that all documents are merged into 1 file before uploading.
Applications should include:
- A cover letter of motivation indicating your suitability and goals for the position.
- A detailed CV which should clearly indicate your highest qualification; an indication of your quantitative and qualitative research experience; your fieldwork experience (not related to your degree) and include details of your citizenship.
- The details of three recent referees with telephone/cell number, e-mail, and institutional affiliation.
- Details of citizenship
- A certified ID copy
The HSRC will only consider applications that comply with the above requirements.
Please note that applicants may be subject to a competency assessment pertaining to this position.
For further information about the HSRC or the post please consult our website (www.hsrc.ac.za). Enquiries, to application process, can be directed to Ms Aurelia Smith at asmith@hsrc.ac.za and those relating to technical knowledge for the positions (NOT applications or CVs) may be directed to Dr Mzikazi Nduna: MNduna@hsrc.ac.za
Closing date: 24 July 2026.
We encourage applicants to submit prior to this date. Applicants who have not been contacted within eight weeks should assume that their application has been unsuccessful. Only applicants who are interviewed will be advised of the outcome of their applications.
The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
APPLICATIONS FROM RECRUITMENT AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
Policy
In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.
The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.
The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.
The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.
MANAGER: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND INTERNATIONALISATION
Details
Closing Date
2026/07/24
Reference Number
HSR260707-2
Job Type
Permanent
Job Title
Manager: Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation
Business Area
Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation
Department
Research Impact Division
Number of Positions
1
Workplace Type
Hybrid
Location - Town / City
Pretoria
Location - Province
Gauteng
Location - Country
South Africa
Minimum Education Level
NQF8 - Hons Degree or equivalent
Application Closing Date
24-Jul-2026
Job Category
Administrative
Job Advert Summary
In delivering ‘social science that makes a difference’ in South Africa and the region, the Research Units of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.
The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.
The Research Impact Division comprises four interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Evaluation; HSRC Press; Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development; Internationalisation; and Governance, Ethics and Integrity. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant but also transformative to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.
The Division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified Manager: Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development (SPECD) within HSRC’s Pretoria office. This is a full-time, permanent appointment.
Manager: Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation
(Ref. No. Man: Strat Partners 07/2026)
Pretoria
Minimum Requirements
- Relevant Honors (NQF 8) qualification in Humanities/Social Sciences, Business Administration/Development, Developmental Studies, International Relations or related fields.
- A Masters degree (NQF 9) is an added advantage
- 6-8 Years relevant experience working in research, university, and or training and development environment or related private or NGO sector.
- Experience leading teams and a sound understanding of the social science research process.
- Relevant experience or exposure in youth, learnerships, internships, post-schooling, or the future of work.
- High levels of computer literacy.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Responsible for the operational work of the Strategic Partnership and Internationalisation Unit.
- Provides leadership in driving key external partnerships for the HSRC and to drive internal stakeholder relations.
- Liaises with external policy makers to further drive impactful research that leads to sustainable policy improvement within state bodies, determined by the strategic objectives and the mandate of the HSRC.
- Supports all projects under the Unit including but not limited to the Science Diplomacy, Internship Project, Business Development and HSRC Tier 1 events.
- Building alliances with like-minded partners to support the hosting and mentoring of interns and establish collaborations that ensure the financial sustainability of these initiatives.
- Oversee partnership initiatives and activities
- Lead engagement planning, including identifying speakers, experts, and strategic partners.
- Co-lead the review and development strategy for the unit with the Director
- Draft and manage MoUs/MoAs and collaboration agreements, maintaining effective engagement with strategic partners.
- Proactively demonstrate a visible presence and engagement with relevant government entities, stakeholders and activities related to the organisation’s objectives in driving impactful research.
- Create reporting guidelines and criteria for partnerships.
- Develop partnership dashboards and institutional reporting tools.
- Manage the planning and compilation of the Unit’s annual budget aligned to the operational plans to support the implementation of the APP.
- Ensure that each team member is capacitated, managed, supported, mentored (if they are trainees) and motivated to ensure a high-performance team that meets strategic targets.
Please register and submit your application on-line at https://hsrc.erecruit.co/
Application Instructions:
- Candidates can make use of their mobile devices or any browser to register on the Neptune recruitment site, as well as to make applications for available vacancies; Candidates will be prompted to upload their CV’s;
- Attachments must be less than 1MB, there is an on-screen option to resize.
- The Neptune system will only allow you to upload 1 attachment. Please ensure that all documents are merged into 1 file before uploading.
Applications should include:
- A cover letter of motivation indicating your suitability and goals for the position.
- A detailed CV which should clearly indicate your highest qualification; an indication of your quantitative and qualitative research experience; your fieldwork experience (not related to your degree) and include details of your citizenship.
- The details of three recent referees with telephone/cell number, e-mail, and institutional affiliation.
- Details of citizenship
- A certified ID copy
The HSRC will only consider applications that comply with the above requirements.
Please note that applicants may be subject to a competency assessment pertaining to this position.
For further information about the HSRC or the post please consult our website (www.hsrc.ac.za). Enquiries, to application process, can be directed to Ms Aurelia Smith at asmith@hsrc.ac.za and those relating to technical knowledge for the positions (NOT applications or CVs) may be directed to Dr Mzikazi Nduna: MNduna@hsrc.ac.za
Closing date: 24 July 2026.
We encourage applicants to submit prior to this date. Applicants who have not been contacted within eight weeks should assume that their application has been unsuccessful. Only applicants who are interviewed will be advised of the outcome of their applications.
The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
APPLICATIONS FROM RECRUITMENT AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED
Policy
In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.
The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.
The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.
The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.
