The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has formally readvertised the crucial executive position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO), signalling a renewed drive to secure a leader for its secretariat. The position is offered on a five-year fixed-term contract and comes with a substantial total annual remuneration package of R2,352,642. The successful candidate is expected to commence their tenure on 1 February 2026.
The purpose of the role is primarily to provide comprehensive strategic leadership, direction, and guidance to the SAHRC’s Secretariat. The CEO is tasked with ensuring the effective management of the Commission’s day-to-day operations and administrative affairs. Furthermore, the CEO carries significant statutory responsibilities, including the performance of specific duties as assigned under the South African Human Rights Commission Act (Act 40 of 2013). Critically, the appointed individual will also assume the duties of the Accounting Officer, as prescribed by the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) (Act 1 of 1999 as amended), placing them at the helm of the organisation’s financial oversight and fiscal accountability.
The SAHRC is seeking a highly qualified professional to assume this pivotal role. The minimum educational requirement is a Master’s Degree, or an equivalent qualification at NQF Level 9, in relevant disciplines such as Law, International Relations, Public Administration, or Social Sciences. The experience requirements are rigorous, stipulating a minimum of ten years’ experience in a senior management position, with four of those years operating specifically at an executive level capacity. Preference is given to candidates with experience in the public sector or the human rights field.
Beyond general executive experience, the successful applicant must possess a minimum of five years’ direct experience in human rights or related fields, reinforcing the mandate’s specialised nature. Candidates must also demonstrate proven expertise in developing organisational strategy, preparing and managing complex strategic and operational plans, and overseeing substantial budgets. Knowledge of corporate governance frameworks applicable to public sector entities, including an understanding of the King Reports and Treasury Regulations, is also essential. Prior experience managing a government institution or a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) would be considered an advantageous asset.
In terms of core competencies, the role demands an in-depth knowledge of both the Constitutional mandate of the SAHRC and the body of national and international human rights law and instruments that govern its work. Strong capabilities in financial management, stakeholder engagement, leadership, and decision-making are paramount for navigating the Commission’s complex operating environment.
Interested applicants, including those who may have previously applied for the role, are encouraged to re-submit their application letter, along with a Curriculum Vitae and a copy of their Identity Document, to the Commission’s dedicated recruitment email address. The final closing date for submissions is 15:00 on Friday, 19 December 2025. The SAHRC has stated that all candidates will be subject to competency assessments and rigorous security clearance procedures, and that appointments will be made in line with the Commission’s Employment Equity Plan. The Commission explicitly encourages persons with disabilities to apply for the vacancy.
Kindly submit your application letter together with your CV and ID copy to recruitment@sahrc.org.za