The Budget Justice Coalition (BJC) is a coalition of twenty civil society organisations and social movements who seek to hold government accountable for the full and equal enjoyment of socio-economic rights in South Africa. BJC activities include enhancing public knowledge and participation in South Africa’s budget and planning processes; and analysing, campaigning and mobilising the public to demand budget policies that advance social, economic and environmental justice.
The Coalition Organiser plays a vital role in ensuring that proper systems and processes are in place to enable the coalition, the Steering Committee and sub-committees, to function efficiently and effectively. The Organiser is a pro-active, helpful individual who shares the coalition members’ passion for social justice.
The Organiser is the first point of contact for a number of specified internal and external matters and communications and is therefore a key communicator within the coalition. The Organiser will seek to encourage participation by members in the activities of the coalition, organise meetings, follow up on commitments, and provide assistance to members in the execution of their tasks within the coalition.
Key tasks and responsibilities:
Meetings:
Organise, coordinate and actively participate (where possible) in BJC general meetings, workshops, Steering Committee meetings and sub-committee meetings.
Take minutes and circulate these promptly with agreed action items.
Take on organising and administrative tasks identified at coalition meetings, subject to availability.
Coalition building:
Develop efficient administrative systems and processes for the coalition where these are lacking (for example, the coalition endorsement process).
Champion the coalition Terms of Reference and lead by example by practicing and actively promoting the values, ethos and working methods of the coalition outlined therein (e.g. respectful debate, being cognisant of power asymmetries, valuing all voices).
Regularly communicate with coalition members to provide project and activity updates and to share relevant information on opportunities for advocacy engagement.
Monitor progress on and address concerns regarding committees’ and members’ progress on activities to which they are committed with Manco, the Steering Committee or sub-committees.
Maintain an open membership register for the coalition and process new membership requests and applications.
Identify and communicate funding opportunities for the coalition.
Assist in the preparation and submission proposals and reports to donors.
Internal communications and information management:
Maintain BJC records through a Google Drive which is up to date, well organised, and easily accessible to members at all times.
Maintain internal communications (WhatsApp and email) platforms as well as external communications platforms (currently email, Twitter and Facebook).
Support the management of the BJC website by uploading content and ensuring that the content is well organised and up to date, regularly monitoring use and functionality.
Manage a quarterly newsletter for the coalition.
Coalition advocacy and other activities:
Be the point of liaison between the coalition and Parliamentary committees and other stakeholders in government and civil society.
Keep track of opportunities for the coalition to engage with Parliament, government departments and agencies, as well as public events and forums that the coalition or its members may be interested in (e.g. webinars, workshops, campaigns) – and communicate these to the coalition.
Support the coordination of advocacy and other activities led by members by encouraging effective project planning and following up with responsible committees and members for updates.
Take steps to address any concerns about project and activity progress with Manco.
Provide assistance with logistical arrangements for meetings and other activities.
Where agreed, represent the coalition in external meetings from time to time.
Education and experience:
At least 3-5 years’ experience of project management and/or administration, including having responsibility for internal communications.
Experience working in civil society or government is advantageous.
Experience as a participant or coordinator of coalitions or similar networks is highly advantageous.
University degree in a relevant field is preferred.
Key skills:
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (orally and in writing).
Confidence to work in a dynamic environment providing pro-active organising and problem solving
Able to manage multiple demands on time and prioritise appropriately.
Track record of working with minimal supervision.
Technological proficiency with WhatsApp, email, Word, Google docs and Google drive essential. Previous experience of basic website management is an advantage.
Proficiency at organising and facilitating online meetings using the Zoom platform.
BJC will give effect to employment equity principles and practices when selecting candidates for interview and appointment.
As SECTION27 is the host of BJC funds, the Organiser will be contracted by SECTION27. BJC does not operate from a central premises and the Organiser may work from a location of their choice within the borders of South Africa, so long as they are easily contactable and available to travel within South Africa when necessary for coalition engagements.
Please forward your curriculum vitae and a one page motivation as to why you are interested in and suitable for the position to [email protected] Late applications will not be considered and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.
Late applications will not be considered and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
For more about SECTION27, refer to www.section27.org.za