Junior Policy Officer at the Netherlands Consulate General in Cape Town

The Consulate General of the  Kingdom of the Netherlands in Cape Town has a job opening for a Junior Policy Officer starting from January 1st, 2025. We are looking for a professional with a proven track record in trade and investment promotion, who has affinity with cultural and political affairs and who is a real team player. 

The Junior Policy Officer is creative and able to think non conventionally, has a solution orientated approach while maintaining a high standard of work quality both in terms of accuracy and analytical ability. The Junior Policy Officer is eager to learn, enthusiastic and flexible, is an effective communicator, continuously invests in a strong professional network and is able to adequately represent the Netherlands in formal and informal settings. The Junior Policy Officer is willing to look for common ground. 

The Consulate General in Cape Town works as One Team with the Embassy in Pretoria. Our shared mission in South Africa is to strengthen the already strong bilateral political and economic relationship between South Africa and The Netherlands.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

•    Contribute to the policy goals and results as described in the Multi Annual Country Strategy of the Netherlands government and the missions’ Annual Plan;
•    Strengthen the economic network and working with partners in the private, non-governmental and governments spheres, especially in the geographical area of responsibility at the Consulate General. Contribute to an up to date database of relevant interlocutors, partners, businesses, clients, etc;
•    Support Dutch companies in responding to their trade related and other queries (and archiving these in the Ministry’s system, Achilles);
•    Facilitate incoming missions and visits in the Dutch missions’ priority economic sectors and other fields of interest of the Dutch government;
•    Identify new economic and trade opportunities inside and outside the assigned sectors and work with colleagues within the CG and the Embassy in Pretoria to capitalize on these (identify leads, bring them to prospects and deals);
•    Assist with cultural and/or political activities of the Consulate General, including the preparation of visits and the organization of events. In all work, contribute to the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands’ reputation of a reliable partner for Dutch and South African counterparts (private, government, etc.).
 

Skills and competencies

Professional

  • Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Translates policy to a readable format for a larger audience. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience.
  • Demonstrates openness in sharing information and opinion and keeping others informed.
  • Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having a two-way communication.
  • Enjoys teamwork, network events and thinking on the spot.
  • Capable organizer, used to meeting deadlines and delivering results.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, content management systems and social media platforms.

Teamwork and D&I

  • Works collaboratively and values team cohesion. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise. Is willing to learn from others. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
  • Enjoys working in a diverse and multicultural team and environment, recognizes and appreciates intercultural sensitivities. Has views and ambition on the promotion of diversity and inclusion in work and teamwork.

Qualifications


Education, experience, knowledge and skills

  • A degree in economics, business administration, or related field. A master’s degree is preferred. 
  • A minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience is required. 
  • Knowledge of the political and economic landscape in South Africa and interest in international affairs.
  • A network of contacts in the economic landscape in South Africa is an asset.
  • Interested and have knowledge in the key priority policy areas of the Netherlands in South Africa. 
  • Proficient in working with social media, branding and marketing. 

Language requirements

  • Fluency in English C2 (both oral and written) is required. Skills in isiXhosa and Afrikaans are beneficial for working in the Western, Eastern and Northern Cape.
  • Knowledge of the Dutch language is helpful.

Diversity

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pursues an active diversity policy and is committed to an inclusive organization. We do this by optimally deploying and utilizing people's differences. And by creating a work culture where everyone can be themselves and feel valued. When composing teams and hiring new talent, we strive for diversity in age, gender, culture, background, orientation, disability, knowledge and competencies. 

Contract of employment

  • Fixed term contract for one year – with option to extend.
  •  Two months’ probation period.
  • Indication of gross monthly salary: ZAR 48.605 – 53.465 gross depending on experience and qualifications, 37,5 hours/week. 
  • In possession of a valid South African work permit. No other legal obstructions.

Interested?

Please send your application via e-mail, subject ”Application Junior Policy Officer – SURNAME” 

Your application should include:
•    motivation letter (max 400 words) 
•    curriculum vitae
•    reference of previous employer or client
Deadline for applications: November 1, 2024