About the Organisation
The IEJ is a progressive economic policy think tank committed to advancing economic justice, systemic change, and the equitable distribution of resources to ensure the realisation of rights and planetary wellbeing. As IEJ grows in size and complexity, strengthening its internal people, systems, and culture has become a strategic priority. The organisation values reflection, rigour, equity, and respectful dialogue. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who reflect the diversity of South Africa, as we are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable work environment.
About the Job
The Researcher will undertake research and advocacy for realising rights through mobilising resources for fiscal justice in South Africa and the world. This includes leading, overseeing, and producing research projects, collaborating internally with IEJ staff, and contributing to research that informs advocacy and policy alternatives. The role also involves engaging with partners, consultants, and stakeholders to advance research findings and policy alternatives that support budget and fiscal justice in South Africa, the region, and the continent.
The Researcher will also support the broader Resourcing for Rights Realisation (RRR) team across areas such as budget justice, macroeconomic policy, international tax, and climate finance, where these intersect with fiscal policy. Examples of key publications from this workstream can be found at the links below:
https://iej.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Briefing-Note-Pre-Budget-2026.pdf
https://iej.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Navigating-wealth-taxes-Working-Paper-1.pdf
https://iej.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IEJ-_-Fiscal-Framework-and-Revenue-Proposals-Submission-_-2026-BUDGET.pdf
Key Responsibilities
Fiscal Policy Research
Lead, oversee, and produce high-quality, policy-focused research outputs and/or publications.
Respond to calls for submissions on tax, expenditure, domestic revenue mobilisation, and budget proposals.
Undertake rigorous research on relevant fiscal policy themes.
Participating in research forums, workshops, and knowledge-sharing platforms.
Review, comment on, and contribute to research outputs across the IEJ.
Commission and contribute to research outputs from consultants.
Fiscal Justice Advocacy and Public Engagement
Plan and organise advocacy activities informed by research findings.
Develop accessible summaries and advocacy materials based on research and policy work.
Engage with policymakers and contribute to policy discussions.
Contribute to the development and implementation of advocacy strategies in collaboration with RRR and IEJ teams, and partners.
Developing activities and leading on outputs as part of advocacy efforts in the annual budget cycle.
Lead specific advocacy outputs towards budget justice and social security for all, including participating in the BJC’s fiscal policy work.
Work with government, labour, and civil society partners on fiscal policy matters.
Conduct media engagement (radio, tv interviews etc.).
Represent IEJ in relevant forums and engagements.
Process and stakeholder relationship management
Build and maintain partnerships within the fiscal policy space, both locally and internationally.
Lead and coordinate submissions to institutions such as the government, parliament, NEDLAC, UN entities, and the AU.
Coordinate and/or participate in key tax working fora.
Managing IEJ’s relationships with strategic partners.
Contribute to donor reporting and funding processes where required.
Support the development of proposals for funding opportunities.
Supervision and Team Contribution
Provide guidance and support to interns or junior researchers in producing high-quality work where required.
Support the Senior Researcher and project lead as needed, including on cross-cutting work.
Review consultant’s outputs and provide input where required.
Contribute to project planning, budgeting, implementation, and reporting processes as required.
Collaborate across IEJ teams to support budget advocacy and related initiatives.
Requirements
Qualifications, Experience and Skills:
Master’s Degree in Economics, Development, Social Sciences, or related fields, (e.g. Sociology, Political Science, or Public Policy).
Minimum 3 years’ research experience, with strong qualitative and quantitative skills, including economic modelling.
Experience working with various stakeholders across civil society, public policy, government, or research environments.
Strong writing and analytical skills, with the ability to produce high-quality, policy-relevant outputs.
Understanding of the policy debates in the fiscal policy and economic justice space, with the ability to develop and communicate clear, well-structured arguments across a range of platforms, including the media.
Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple priorities.
Sound judgement and the ability to make well-reasoned decisions.
Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence in engaging with colleagues and stakeholders.
Flexibility and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Attributes
You are someone who:
Has strong political and social awareness or consciousness.
Is committed to economic and social justice.
Is able to work independently, take initiative, and demonstrate accountability for delivering high-quality outputs.
Is organised and detail orientated.
Has the ability to exercise sound judgement and make well-reasoned decisions.
Has strong interpersonal awareness and emotional intelligence in engaging with colleagues and stakeholders.
Is comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Can communicate complex ideas clearly to a range of audiences
Proficient using Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
Please note this is a 3 year full-time contract.
IEJ operates on a hybrid basis, with employees expected in-office on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
IEJ is committed to gender and racial equity and transformation and will consider this when reviewing applications.
To apply
To apply, email your application by Friday 4 September 2026 to [email protected]
More Information
- Job City Johannesburg, South Africa
