Type of employee

The Policy Officer is creative and able to think non-conventionally. The employee is solution-orientated, eager to learn, enthusiastic and flexible. Contributing to the economic team, effective communication both verbally and in writing is key. Together with others, the employee invests in a strong professional network and can adequately represent the Netherlands in formal and informal settings. 

Working environment

The team of the Netherlands Consulate-General in Cape Town consists of 11 employees. The Consulate-General is housed in a historical and charming building in the center of Cape Town. The Consulate-General pursues a collaborative environment and teamwork. The Consulate strives to be a constructive bilateral partner for South Africa. Efficient use of public, cultural and economic diplomacy instruments contribute to a positive image of the Netherlands. The team and its working methods are efficient, inclusive and effective.

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.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Contributing to the policy goals and results as described in the Multi Annual Country Strategy of the Netherlands government and the missions’ Annual Plan, participating in the missions policy teams and aligning the work as much as possible with the colleagues in the Consulate and the Embassy in Pretoria.
• Strengthening the economic network and working with partners in the private, non-governmental and governments spheres, especially in the Northern, Western and Eastern Cape of responsibility at the Consulate General. Contribute to an up-to-date database of relevant interlocutors, partners, businesses, clients, etc.
• Contributing to the Dutch central government’s goals and results in the areas of economic and public diplomacy. Therefore:
• Effective and timely support to Dutch companies in responding to their trade related and other queries;
• The facilitation of incoming missions and visits in the Dutch missions’ priority economic sectors (e.g. Green Hydrogen, Critical Raw Materials, Digitalization and Cyber Security);
• Identifying new opportunities inside and outside the assigned sectors and collaboratively with colleagues within the Consulate General and the Embassy in Pretoria, building strategies and capitalizing on these (identify leads, bring them to prospects and deals);
• Timely archive all decisions and documents related to the core activities the Policy Officer is responsible for, especially those with financial consequences, in the archiving systems;
• Assisting with other activities of the Consulate General, including the preparation of visits and organizing events. Contribute to a safe and sound working environment for all colleagues including interns and hired staff for communication, security and other services. 
• In all work, contributing to the Dutch reputation of a reliable partner for South African counterparts, and the Consulate General’s reputation of a reliable partner for Dutch and South African counterparts (private, government, etc.).

Skills and competencies Required
 

Communication Skills
Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately. Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having a two-way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork
Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Thinks SA-width. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise. Is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. 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.

Education
Have a degree in a relevant field, preferably in economics, business administration. A master’s degree is preferred.

Other Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience is required.
• 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.
• Interested and have knowledge in the abovementioned key economic priority policy areas and sectors of the Netherlands in South Africa.
• Proficient in working with social media, branding and marketing.

Contract of employment

• Fixed term contract for one year – with option to extend.
• 37.5 hours per week
• An assessment can be part of the selection procedure
• Two months’ probation period.
• Indication of starting salary ZAR 50.252 gross depending on experience and qualification.

• In possession of a valid South African work permit. No other legal obstructions.

Interested?
Please send your application to kaa@minbuza.nl
Subject line of your application email : your surname / Policy Officer / 63708866
Deadline for applications: 9 February 2026 @ 12:00