Head of Policy

About the role

The Ministry of Community Empowerment is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Policy to lead the development, review and implementation of policies and regulatory frameworks that support the Ministry's strategic objectives and strengthen its impact on the community. Based in the Strategy and Future Department, the role provides strategic policy direction, oversees policy research and analysis and ensures alignment with government priorities, national strategies and emerging community needs.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development, review and enhancement of policies, strategies and regulatory frameworks aligned with the Ministry's mandate and priorities.
• Oversee policy research, analysis and benchmarking against local and international best practices.
• Translate strategic objectives and community needs into actionable policy recommendations and initiatives.
• Lead impact assessments and evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies.
• Coordinate with internal departments and other government entities to ensure policy alignment and consistent implementation.
• Advise senior leadership with evidence-based recommendations on policy matters.
• Monitor legislative, regulatory, social and economic developments that may affect policy direction.
• Establish governance mechanisms, standards and frameworks for policy quality, consistency and compliance.
• Lead stakeholder engagement and consultation processes.
• Manage and develop the Policy team.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Political Science, Law, Economics or a related discipline; a Master's degree is preferred.
• Significant experience in policy development, government strategy, regulatory affairs or public sector transformation.
• Proven experience leading policy development and review in a government or large institutional setting.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder management and cross-government collaboration.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and influencing senior stakeholders.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of government structures, regulatory frameworks and public policy processes.
• Analytical, research, strategic thinking and report-writing capabilities.
• Strategic thinking, research and analytical skills, regulatory and governance expertise, stakeholder engagement, leadership, strategic communication and problem-solving.