The Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria has announced a vacancy for a full-time Public Diplomacy and Information Officer, offering communications professionals the opportunity to contribute to Ireland’s diplomatic, cultural, and public engagement efforts across Southern Africa.
The successful candidate will be based in Pretoria and is expected to begin the role on 1 October 2026.
The position is designed for an experienced communications professional who can help strengthen Ireland’s public profile in South Africa and the wider region while supporting the Embassy’s diplomatic objectives through strategic communications, media engagement, cultural diplomacy, and event management.
Why This Embassy Position Is Drawing Attention
For professionals seeking to transition into international relations, diplomacy, or public affairs, this vacancy provides the chance to work within Ireland’s diplomatic network while engaging with governments, media, cultural institutions, civil society, and the Irish diaspora.
The Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria represents Irish interests not only in South Africa but also across Botswana, Lesotho, Mauritius, and Zimbabwe, making the role regional in scope.
The successful candidate will lead public diplomacy initiatives while collaborating with Embassy teams responsible for political affairs, trade, development cooperation, culture, and consular services.
What the Public Diplomacy Officer Will Do
The selected officer will be responsible for designing and implementing communications campaigns that promote Ireland’s priorities in the region.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and delivering creative public diplomacy campaigns.
- Building relationships with journalists and media organisations.
- Managing the Embassy’s website and social media platforms.
- Monitoring political, economic, and development news relevant to Embassy priorities.
- Supporting the planning and delivery of Embassy events.
- Coordinating logistics for diplomatic and cultural programmes.
- Producing reports that evaluate communications activities and outreach impact.
- Creating digital content that supports Embassy programmes.
- Working closely with the Regional Arts and Culture Officer.
- Coordinating with Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs communications teams and regional communications officers across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The role will also occasionally require after-hours and weekend support, particularly for consular duties and official events.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The Embassy is looking for candidates who possess strong communication, organisational, and relationship-building skills.
Applicants must have:
- A relevant undergraduate degree.
- Fluency in English.
- At least three years of professional communications experience.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong IT proficiency.
- Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Demonstrated ability to analyse information and produce concise reports.
- Proven networking and stakeholder engagement experience.
- The legal right to live and work permanently in South Africa.
Additional Qualifications That Will Strengthen Applications
Although not mandatory, the Embassy says preference may be given to applicants who have:
- A Master’s degree in a related discipline.
- Experience working with an embassy or international NGO.
- Background in advocacy or policy engagement.
- Experience managing social media campaigns.
- Event management expertise.
- Knowledge of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic operations.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers an annual starting salary of ZAR 625,541.52, together with medical aid benefits.
Employees will work:
- Full-time (37 hours per week)
- Monday to Friday
- Standard office hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Occasional domestic or regional travel may be required.
Recruitment Process
Applications will undergo an initial shortlisting process based on the published requirements.
Depending on the number of applications received, shortlisted candidates may participate in:
- Competency-based interviews
- Skills assessments
- Language tests
- A possible second-round interview
The Embassy may also establish a reserve panel for future appointments.
Successful applicants will be required to undergo police security clearance before appointment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A cover letter
Applications must be emailed to:
[email protected]
Applicants should use the subject line:
Public Diplomacy and Information Officer
The Embassy notes that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Important Deadline
Applications close at 4:30 p.m. (South Africa local time) on 31 July 2026.
Late submissions will not be considered.
A Career at the Heart of Irish Diplomacy
The Embassy describes the position as an opportunity to combine communications, diplomacy, culture, media relations, and public engagement within one of Ireland’s key diplomatic missions in Africa.
Professionals with experience in communications, international relations, public affairs, journalism, advocacy, or cultural diplomacy may find the role particularly attractive as it offers direct involvement in shaping Ireland’s engagement with South Africa and neighbouring countries while promoting stronger bilateral partnerships across the region.
