Manager: Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation

About the role

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is seeking a Manager to lead its Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation portfolio within the Research Impact Division. Based in Pretoria, the role will strengthen the Council’s ability to translate research into societal impact by building and managing high‑value collaborations locally and abroad.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, develop and manage strategic partnerships with government, NGOs, academic institutions and private sector organisations.
• Lead external capacity‑development initiatives that support the Council’s research agenda and impact goals.
• Coordinate internationalisation activities, including joint research projects, mobility programmes and knowledge‑exchange networks.
• Work closely with the Impact Evaluation, HSRC Press and Governance units to ensure alignment of partnership outcomes with HSRC’s development priorities.
• Prepare partnership proposals, contracts and performance reports for senior management and funders.

Required profile

• Relevant tertiary qualification (e.g., in social sciences, development studies, business or related fields).
• Proven experience in managing strategic partnerships, stakeholder engagement and international collaboration.
• Strong understanding of policy‑oriented research and development priorities in South Africa and the broader African context.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and report‑writing skills.

Required skills