Nelson Mandela Foundation is Hiring: International Relations Consultant

The Nelson Mandela Foundation is inviting applications for an International Relations Consultant to support its global justice programme. This is a 12-month independent contract that can be structured as either part-time or full-time, depending on the availability of the successful candidate.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful work advancing peace, human rights, and democracy across Africa and globally, in line with the legacy of Nelson Mandela.

About the Role

The consultant will support the Foundation’s regional justice project, helping drive research, advocacy, and stakeholder coordination efforts that address contemporary political challenges across the African continent.

The role is ideal for a professional with strong grounding in political theory, African regional dynamics, and international relations, combined with the ability to engage with evolving political narratives and global power structures.

Background & Programme Focus

Global justice is a strategic priority for the Foundation. Its work seeks to:

• Promote awareness and action on peace, human rights, and democracy

• Address interconnected global and African conflicts

• Challenge structural inequalities and global power imbalances

• Foster equitable and democratic societies across the continent

Through research, convening, and coalition-building, the Foundation aims to strengthen leadership, public awareness, and policy engagement on pressing African justice issues.

Key Responsibilities

The International Relations Consultant will:

• Support the Head of Department in implementing the regional justice project

• Conduct policy research and analysis on African and global justice issues

• Lead stakeholder engagement and convening

• Contribute to organisational knowledge and strategic insights

• Provide ad-hoc international relations research support across programmes

Qualifications & Experience

To be considered, candidates should have:

• A Bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in International Relations or a related field

• 3–5 years of relevant professional experience

• Demonstrated experience working on African regional issues

• Strong skills in research, writing, networking, and coordination

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital collaboration tools

Contract Details

• Contract Type: Independent consultant

• Duration: 12 months

• Work Arrangement: Part-time or full-time (depending on availability)

• Location: Flexible (with coordination across Foundation programmes)

Why This Opportunity Matters

This role is more than a consultancy—it is a chance to shape conversations and action on justice in Africa and beyond. You will contribute to meaningful work that advances equity, strengthens democratic values, and challenges systems of oppression.

Key Skills and Expertise

The Foundation is seeking candidates with strong analytical and communication capabilities, including:

• Excellent research and writing skills

• Sound understanding of international relations, including:

  • Peace and justice

  • International governance and cooperation

  • Political economy

• Ability to work independently and manage outputs

• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills

• Effective written, verbal, and listening communication abilities

Required Attributes and Competencies

Successful applicants will demonstrate:

• A proactive mindset and initiative

• A structured and organised approach to delivering outputs

• A solution-oriented work ethic

• The ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders

Application Process

Please send the following documentation and information to recruitment@nelsonmandela.org

Required Application Materials

• Updated CV with two contactable references

• Availability details (part-time or full-time; if part-time, specify days available per week)

• Salary expectations (for part-time or full-time)

• Earliest available start date

Application Deadline

6 March 2026

Applications received after the deadline may not be considered, so early submission is strongly encouraged.

For more detail about this role, click Here.

This role is ideal for professionals passionate about policy, research, and social justice, who want to make a meaningful contribution to governance and public dialogue in South Africa and beyond.

If you have the skills, passion, and commitment to drive change—this is your opportunity to join one of Africa’s most influential legacy institutions.