The Norwegian Embassy in Pretoria is looking for a knowledgeable and dynamic Political adviser/Programme Officer to provide insight into South Africa’s political and socio-economic situation and to manage a portfolio of development assistance projects.
The Embassy employs 25 staff, working across teams dealing with political affairs, economic and trade affairs, development, visa, and consular issues. The Embassy is accredited to South Africa, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Lesotho, Botswana, and Namibia.
The Embassy’s development portfolio currently has an emphasis on peace and reconciliation, human rights and gender equality, nature and climate research, and the sustainable management of oceans.
Duties & Responsibilities
The programme officer will be involved in both the political and development work of the Embassy. Responsibilities include:
- Managing a portfolio of grants in alignment with Norway’s Africa Strategy, Development Policies and priority areas in its partnership with South Africa. The position will have a particular focus on human rights and gender equality, but other thematic areas may be added.
- Assessing applications and partners, preparing grant agreements, follow-up partnerships and the implementation cycle, including control and M&E.
- Providing contextual analysis on South Africa’s political and socio-economic situation and government policies, particularly on issues that could affect Norwegian interests.
- Preparing analytical reports, briefing notes, talking points, speeches and opinion-editorials.
- Supporting bilateral relations and facilitating visits and meetings with relevant government officials, multilateral organisations, civil society organisations and other relevant counterparts.
- Assisting in the organisation of meetings, seminars, events and communication activities in the relevant areas of responsibility.
Desired Experience & Qualification
- Master’s degree in relevant field, such as development economics, international relations, social sciences or similar.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in providing political analysis, with a focus on South Africa.
- Experience with grant management.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Interest in and/or experience from communication work, including social media, is an asset.
- A robust network in South Africa of political analysts, politicians, government representatives etc. is an advantage.
- Willingness for some travel, mainly in South Africa.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and be able to work independently, efficiently and to take initiative.
- Applicants must be able to work as part of a team, have strong analytical, problem solving and networking skills.
Benefits
- Inclusive and dynamic working environment.
- 38 hours work week and paid overtime.
- Competitive health insurance and other benefits.
- Gym facilities and weekly time for exercise during work hours.
- A supportive, family friendly work environment that promotes healthy work–life balance.
How to apply
Please send an email to emb.pretoria@mfa.no
- Subject line: Application programme Officer – your name
- Attach cover letter and CV
- Deadline is by the end of 15 February 2026