WHO WE ARE

Iranti, a Yoruba word, which means memory, was founded in 2012 with the vision of achieving a just world where sexual, gender and bodily diversity is celebrated and where everyone lives with dignity, respect and equality.  

Iranti uses multi-media narratives and evidence to advocate for lesbian, bisexual, queer, trans and gender diverse and intersex people’s rights. We transfer knowledge and skills, document our movement’s history and contribute to building strong and effective LBQTI movements in Africa.

Iranti is based in Brixton, Johannesburg, in a property we purchased for our sustainability and as a hub for our community.

THE OPPORTUNITY

With the rise of anti-gender movements and a global backlash against LGBTIQ+ people, the defunding of our movements, increased pathologisation, and criminalisation. Iranti is needed now more than ever.

We are not alone in this struggle for freedom and justice; forging new partnerships across movements and deepening existing ones has become imperative for our collective survival.

It is in this context that we are seeking to hire an Executive Director.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will build on Iranti’s achievements and forge new pathways to impact.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

In collaboration with the board and staff, the new Executive will leverage the organisation’s past expertise, centring and expanding its media, research, archiving and advocacy work, and leading the development and implementation of the organisation’s next strategic plan.

Professional Requirements

The ideal candidate will be a transformative leader with a nuanced understanding of, and experience in, leading an LGBTIQ+  rights organisation, or any other human rights or feminist organisation. They will have connections to movements, donors, and other stakeholders such as the media. We are seeking someone with a postgraduate degree-level education, preferably in the social sciences,   law, or equivalent experience, coupled with a minimum of four (4) years’ experience working within the human rights sector in a senior management role.

• Executive or senior leadership experience with an organisation, including experience managing a small team;
• Prior executive or senior leadership experience in fundraising and donor engagements;
• Proven experience in building strong and effective teams and creating cultures defined by transparency, accountability, trust and respect;
• Strategic fundraising experience that includes cultivating individual and institutional donor relationships and fundraising.
• Experience working with a non-profit board and a demonstrable understanding of governance and decision-making;
• Demonstrable understanding of budgets, how to develop, track, and manage organisational or large project budgets;
• An understanding of the fiscal and donor reporting requirements associated with donor funds;
• Demonstrated experience leading the creation and implementation of strategic plans;
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to effectively convey radical ideas and to engage individuals and large groups;
• Fluency in English. Fluency in another language is desirable.
• Availability for domestic and international travel; and
• Legal status to work in South Africa.

Personal Characteristics

The new Executive Director will be a self-driven, feminist leader who is able to work intersectionally and strategically. They should be able to manage a small team of diverse individuals, leading by example. They will be rooted in the politics of regional and global solidarity, and comfortable holding and articulating a radical vision.

Remuneration

The remuneration package is commensurate with the experience required for person/s in the Regional NGO sector and is inclusive of flexible work arrangements (hybrid model), medical-aid, provident fund, mobile phone allowance, performance assessment bonus, annual leave, etc.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a 3 page cv with a cover letter and certified copies of qualifications to rhulani@iranti.org.za Please write “Executive Director Vacancy” in the subject line of your email.

Closing date of applications: 17 February 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

We reserve the right not to make an appointment. We regret, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.