SALGA Senior Policy Advisor IGR Vacancy 2026 at South African Local Government Association (SALGA)

Opportunity Overview

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) is offering a vacancy for a Senior Policy Advisor in IGR (Intergovernmental Relations) and Municipal Resilience. This pivotal role is based at SALGA's National Office in Pretoria.

The successful candidate will play a key part in executing policies, ensuring effective communication flow, and coordinating priorities and budgets across various sectors. This position contributes to strengthening local government strategies and programmes across South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A Degree or Advanced National Diploma at NQF Level 7 in a relevant discipline.
• A valid Code 08 driver’s licence and ownership of a vehicle.
• Between 7 and 10 years of relevant experience, with at least 3 years at an equivalent level within a medium to large organisation.
• Previous management experience in a multidisciplinary environment.
• A sound understanding of the Local Government Sector.
• A proven track record in effectively managing complex and sensitive stakeholder engagements at all levels.

Key Responsibilities

The incumbent will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Providing ongoing analysis of key challenges, needs, and trends to ensure appropriate implementation of local government strategies.
• Representing SALGA and municipalities at various IGR and other forums to protect municipal interests and influence policy frameworks.
• Guiding, supporting, and providing professional advice to municipalities in areas of focus.
• Supporting the development and implementation of monitoring and evaluation processes to track policy and legislative compliance.
• Implementing appropriate project management methodologies and managing the full project cycle for assigned projects.
• Building and maintaining relevant stakeholder relationships and partnerships.
• Identifying potential funders and points for leverage during programme conceptualisation.
• Assisting with financial and expense monitoring.

What the Work Involves

As a Senior Policy Advisor, you will report to the Chief Officer: IGR and Municipal Resilience, playing a crucial role in the strategic direction and practical implementation of SALGA’s objectives. Your daily work will involve deep diving into research and benchmarking to analyse challenges and trends, providing critical guidance for municipal improvements.

A significant part of the role will entail representing SALGA and municipalities at various intergovernmental forums, actively lobbying and advocating for their interests. You will also provide hands-on support and professional advice to municipalities, helping to build their capacity and improve programme implementation. This will involve the use of project management methodologies to oversee the full lifecycle of assigned projects, from planning to monitoring and evaluation. The role is based in an office environment in Pretoria but will require active engagement with diverse stakeholders, necessitating travel.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the official application portal.

• Apply Online: Visit https://www.cvspaces.co.za/Users/CvSpacesLogin?tc=1&vacancyId=1705
• Reference Number: Please quote Ref: 26/09/08 in your application.
• Closing Date: Ensure your application is submitted by 15 September 2026.