Organisation: Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI)

Position title: SVRI Forums Assistant

Location: Pretoria, South Africa (Remote candidates will be considered)

Employment type: 12-month position, full time.

Reports to: Global Partnerships and Network Manager

 

About SVRI and the SVRI Forum

The Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) is the largest global network dedicated to advancing research on violence against women and violence against children, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. Founded in 2003, SVRI is a feminist-centred, women-led organisation that strives to achieve a world free of gender-based violence through evidence-informed practice and prevention.

The SVRI Forum is the field’s largest abstract driven conference dedicated to research, evidence-based programming, and innovation to prevent and respond to violence against women, violence against children, and other forms of gender-based violence. Held over five days, the Forum brings together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, activists, survivors and funders from around the globe for in-depth discussions, knowledge exchange, and networking opportunities.

A global event of this scale requires meticulous planning, with preparations beginning almost 2 years in advance to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for attendees. From selecting a host city and venue to curating a diverse and inclusive programme, coordinating bursaries, engaging speakers, and managing logistics, every detail is carefully planned in collaboration with a dedicated team, event organisers, and strategic partners.

The SVRI Forums Assistant will work closely with the Global Partnerships and Network Manager to support the planning, coordination, and execution of the Forum, ensuring the smooth delivery of all activities. This role is integral in managing logistical, administrative, communications, and partnership-related tasks that contribute to the success of the event and its broader mission.

Purpose of the role

The SVRI Forums Assistant will provide administrative, logistical, and communications support to ensure the efficient delivery of SVRI Forum-related activities. The role requires excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

1. Event support and logistics

• Assist with planning and coordinating the biennial SVRI Forum and related events.
• Support the Forum Organising Committee in venue, travel, session logistics, and broader conference management.
• Support in managing event software (e.g., Oxford Abstracts, Whova) for registration, scheduling, and engagement.
• Support coordination of speakers and delegates, manage communications, track requirements, assist where relevant with visas/invitations.
• Support abstract submission and review processes.
• On-site support at the SVRI Forum.

2. Administrative and communication support:

• Provide administrative support to the Global Partnerships and Network Manager, including scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, minute taking.
• Assist in managing SVRI Forum helpdesk.
• Assist in updating web pages and online forms.
• Maintain organised records of partnerships, conference plans, and networking events, including project plans and contact lists.
• Collaborate with the SVRI team to follow up on action items and ensure information flow.

3. Webinar production and membership database management:

• Assist in coordination of logistics for SVRI webinars, including scheduling, platform setup (e.g., Zoom), registration, and technical support during sessions.
• Assist in maintaining and updating the SVRIs membership database, ensuring accurate member information for analysis. 

Required skills and competencies

• Event management experience, preferably with academic, non-profit, or research events.
• Familiarity with event software and online tools (e.g., Oxford Abstracts, Whova, webinar platforms).
• Strong organisational and time-management skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Interpersonal and cross-cultural skills for diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Proactive problem-solving skills.
• Fluency in English required; proficiency in Spanish and/or French is a plus.

Qualifications and experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (public health, social sciences, event management, etc.).
• 2–5 years of experience in event coordination, project administration, or administrative support, ideally in an international NGO or research environment.
• Experience working in international teams or on global projects is beneficial.
• Interest in gender-based violence, public health, or social justice is an asset.
• Ability to provide at least two references.

Employment terms and work environment

• 12-month position, full time.
• Preferably based in Pretoria, South Africa (remote candidates will be considered).
• Reports to the Global Partnerships and Network Manager, collaborating with SVRI team members.
• Dynamic, feminist, and rights-based work culture valuing innovation, collaboration, respect, and kindness.
• Professional development opportunities are available.

Salary range

Depending on experience and expertise, annual earning will range between $21,500.00 and $25,300.00. If based in South Africa, the successful applicant will be paid in South African Rands.

How to apply

Submit your application online by 14 August 2025 by clicking the link below:

SVRI is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.