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 / Senior Researcher position will contribute to the Institute for Economic Justice’s (IEJ) Global Economic Governance (GEG) programme, with a focus on international financial architecture. The role combines high-level research, policy development, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy, supporting IEJ’s work to advance progressive economic transformation in South Africa, Africa, and globally.
The successful candidate will engage with national, regional, and global policy processes (including the G20, African Union, and BRICS), contributing to IEJ’s efforts to advance a more just international financial architecture. This role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of research, policy, and advocacy on some of the most pressing issues in global economic governance, contributing to real-time policy debates and outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Research
Lead and produce high-quality, policy-relevant research outputs and publications
Coordinate research outputs across IEJ teams
Commission and oversee research from consultants
Develop accessible policy briefs and summary materials
Advocacy
Support and implement advocacy strategies with government and civil society partners
Lead the development of policy proposals based on research findings
Engage with media (including radio and television)
Produce and oversee advocacy materials
Strategic contributions
Contribute to the strategic direction of the GEG programme
Support IEJ’s broader organisational and programmatic priorities
Engage in high-level policy debates and forums
Mentoring
Mentor and support junior researchers
Review and strengthen research outputs from team members and consultants
Contribute to building internal research capacity
Project management and donor relations
Support project planning, implementation, and reporting
Contribute to budget preparation and management
Assist in drafting donor proposals and reports
Requirements
PhD (for Senior Researcher) or Master’s degree (for Researcher) in Economics, Development Studies, Finance, Public Administration, Sociology, or a related field
Strong research experience in international financial issues, including:
o International tax
o Sovereign debt
o International financial institutions
o Payment systems
Demonstrated ability to produce rigorous policy-relevant research and translate complex analysis into clear, actionable outputs
Experience contributing to policy development, advocacy or public policy debates
Experience engaging with policy processes, stakeholders, or institutions at the national, regional, or international level (e.g. government, multilateral institutions, or civil society networks)
Experience in stakeholder engagement and project coordination
Strong interpersonal and networking abilities
Excellent writing, analytical, with the ability to communicate effectively across technical and non-technical audiences
High level of organisational skills, attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative and team-oriented environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and statistical tools such as Stata and/or R
A clear commitment to progressive economic transformation in South Africa and Africa
To apply
To apply, email your application by Friday 18th September 2026 to [email protected]
More Information
- Job City Johannesburg, South Africa
