Application Guide

How to Apply for ISS Executive Director

at Institute for Security Studies

🏢 About Institute for Security Studies

The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) is a leading African non-profit research organization focused on human security across the continent. What makes ISS unique is its dual role as both a respected research institution producing evidence-based policy analysis and a practical implementer of programs that directly impact security, governance, and development in Africa. Someone would want to work here to lead an organization that bridges research with real-world action to improve human security for millions of Africans.

About This Role

As ISS Executive Director, you'll lead the organization's strategic direction, fundraising efforts, and continental profile as the leading voice on human security in Africa. This role is impactful because you'll directly shape the ISS 2026–2030 strategy, secure funding that enables critical research and programs, and represent the organization to governments, donors, and multilateral institutions across Africa and globally.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve morning virtual meetings with ISS regional office directors across Africa to coordinate research initiatives, followed by donor strategy sessions to cultivate relationships with potential funding partners. The afternoon could include reviewing strategic documents for the 2026–2030 planning cycle and preparing for Board of Trustees discussions about organizational priorities and performance metrics.

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🎯 Who Institute for Security Studies Is Looking For

  • Has a proven track record securing 7-figure+ funding from governments, multilateral institutions (like UN, AU, EU), and foundations specifically for African security/development programs
  • Possesses extensive experience managing complex research projects using Results-Based Management frameworks with measurable outcomes in conflict prevention, governance, or human security
  • Has an established network of senior stakeholders across African governments, regional bodies (AU, ECOWAS), and international donor communities relevant to ISS's work
  • Demonstrates successful leadership of geographically dispersed teams across multiple African countries with diverse cultural and operational contexts

📝 Tips for Applying to Institute for Security Studies

1

Quantify your fundraising achievements specifically for African-focused programs (e.g., 'secured $X million from [specific donor] for [specific African security program]')

2

Highlight experience with Results-Based Management in research contexts, not just program implementation

3

Demonstrate your understanding of ISS's niche by referencing specific ISS publications or projects in your application materials

4

Show how you've built networks with African governments and regional bodies (AU, SADC, ECOWAS) rather than just international donors

5

Provide concrete examples of managing organizational governance structures similar to ISS's Board of Trustees model

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience fundraising from the types of donors ISS relies on (governments, multilaterals, foundations) for African security work', "How you've successfully led strategy implementation in research organizations or think tanks, not just operational NGOs", "Your approach to maintaining organizational credibility and visibility as a 'leading voice' in a competitive field", 'Examples of managing diverse, multi-location teams across Africa with different operational challenges']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → ISS's current 2021-2025 strategy and published annual reports to understand their current priorities and challenges
  • → Specific ISS research programs and publications to understand their methodological approach and thematic focus areas
  • → ISS's major current donors and funding partners mentioned in their reports
  • → The composition and background of ISS's Board of Trustees to understand governance expectations

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you develop ISS's funding strategy to diversify revenue while maintaining research independence?
2 Describe your experience implementing Results-Based Management frameworks in research organizations versus service delivery NGOs
3 How would you position ISS as the leading voice on human security in Africa amid competing organizations?
4 What specific steps would you take in your first 90 days to understand ISS's operations across multiple African offices?
5 How have you managed relationships with Boards of Trustees or similar governance structures in previous roles?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic fundraising experience without specific examples related to African security/development or research institutions
  • Focusing only on program management without demonstrating experience with research organization leadership
  • Showing limited understanding of ISS's specific niche as both a research institute and program implementer in human security

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Institute for Security Studies!

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