Researcher / Senior Researcher: Global Economic Governance

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 View email address on ngojobsinafrica.com