South Africa: Policy and Research Intern

POLICY AND RESEARCH INTERN NEEDED FOR GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION BASED IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

Action Aid International is a non profit organisation working on behalf of poor and marginalised people, in fighting poverty around the world, as well as speaking out against the injustice and inequity which cause poverty. With the establishment of the international secretariat in South Africa, we, together with our affiliate organisations around the world, will be able to work more effectively together at all levels – local, national, regional, global – but we need your help to do it.

Action Aid International is looking for a dynamic, energetic, analytical and highly-organised newly qualified graduate to assist the Chief Executive Officer in providing rigorous and creative policy research that will inform the varied and demanding international work of the CEO. The successful candidate will assist with preparation for a range of meetings, internal interactions and general policy for the organisation.

The intern should be able to :
· Conduct research via websites, databases and publications of government, EU, international institutions
· Conduct research via other NGOs’ websites and publications
· Keep abreast of key development policy initiatives
· Prepare clear, rigorous briefings for the CEO ahead of key meetings, both verbal and written, and sometimes at short notice
· Be prepared to attend meetings, briefings at short notice
· Work with others in providing clear briefings for the CEO in preparation for meetings
· Provide analysis of international development trends and interventions
· Contribute to discussion about ActionAid’s policy and campaigning objectives, through providing analysis and research
· Develop rapid initial assessments of important developments

The successful candidate will have the following skills, abilities and experience :
· Good working knowledge of the development policies and priorities of governments and institutions and the wider global development context
· A post-graduate degree from a recognised institution
· proven research experience gained in a public policy, NGO or academic environment
· Good knowledge of relevant research databases, websites, publications
· An understanding of quantitative data
· Strong writing and presentational skills, and the ability to present complex issues clearly
· Good understanding of gender issues
· Excellent negotiation and communication skills, including demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with colleagues
· Proven initiative, flexibility and enthusiasm in responding to changing priorities and tight deadlines
· A strong commitment to ActionAid’s values (see www.actionaid.org)

This is an internship for a period of 12 months, and while it is not a salaried position, a stipend to cover expenses will be provided. This is an excellent opportunity to obtain solid work experience at a global level, and for personal growth and development in a forward-looking and dynamic organisation.

Please submit your letter of application, CV and two recent examples of writing of approximately 4-5 pages to the Action Aid International Secretariat. Submissions and enquiries may be sent to either Clare Parry on [email protected] or to Laureen Bertin on [email protected].