Advocacy Programme Manager

**Purpose of Role**:
The Binding Constraints Lab (BCL) is a pioneering programme of work dedicated to enhancing education systems and improving learning outcomes in South Africa. Our mission is to support cross-sector actors in achieving impactful change at scale through innovative approaches, strategic partnerships, and policy advocacy. We work closely with government entities, civil society organisations, business and philanthropic partners to drive sustainable transformation in education. The BCL is a programme of Allan and Gill Gray Philanthropy Africa.

**Objectives of Role**:

- **Strategic advocacy planning**:Collaborate with key stakeholders to develop and implement comprehensive advocacy strategies aligned with national and provincial priorities.
- **Stakeholder engagement**: Identify, build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders across sectors, including government officials, civil society organizations, academia, and the media.
- **Flagship events coordination**: provide support for the planning and execution of flagship events, such as the annual 2030 Reading Panel and associated activities. Ensure these events effectively raise awareness and drive action.
- **Campaign management and development**: manage and develop the Right to Read Campaign through the coordination of participating organisations and under the direction of the Campaign’s steering Committee, manage the development and review of the campaign’s strategy, ensure the development and implementation of work plans of each of the streams, develop key campaign communication documents and drive the achievement of the campaign’s key milestones.
- **Continual advocacy, research and thought leadership**: Sustain momentum beyond major events through ongoing advocacy efforts and thought leadership initiatives. Engage with policymakers, synthesise key research, produce policy briefs, op-eds, and other materials to reinforce key messages.
- **Monitoring**:Establish monitoring mechanisms to track the impact of advocacy efforts. Regularly assess progress, identify challenges, and adapt strategies as needed to maximize effectiveness.
- Represent the BCL and associated initiatives in meetings, conferences, and other forums related to early grade reading advocacy.

**Experience and Qualifications**:
**Education**:
Honours degree or equivalent in Education, Public Policy, International Development, Law or a related field. Master's degree preferred.

**Experience**:

- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in advocacy, policy analysis, research or related fields, with a focus on education or literacy issues.
- Proven track record of developing and implementing successful advocacy campaigns, including experience mobilizing stakeholders, influencing policy, and driving systemic change.
- Strong understanding of the education landscape in South Africa, including key stakeholders, policies, and challenges related to early-grade reading.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to articulate complex issues clearly and persuasively in writing and orally.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
- Experience working with government officials, civil society organizations, and media outlets preferred.
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint

**Competencies**:

- Strategic Thinking
- Stakeholder Management
- Programme Management
- Communication skills
- Research and Analytical thinking (including ability to analyse data)
- Excellent writing skills
- Problem-solving
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and facilitate collaboration
- Adaptability and agility

**Note**: This position may require frequent travel within South Africa and flexibility in working hours to accommodate events and meetings