Dr. Jurie van Niekerk is a seasoned development consultant with over 40 years of experience leading multi-stakeholder projects across Sub-Saharan Africa. Specializing in strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), capacity building, and leadership development. Dr. van Niekerk has collaborated with international organizations such as the EU, USAID, World Bank, GIZ and African Development Bank. His expertise spans sectors including health, education, local government, SME development, and non-profit civil society.
- Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
- Strategic Planning and Policy Development
- Leadership and Capacity Building
- Project and Program Management
- Stakeholder Engagement and Dialogue Facilitation
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Impact Assessment
Credentials and Qualifications
- Doctorate in Strategic Leadership & Foresight (Regent University, USA)
- Master’s in Development Studies (University of Free State, South Africa)
- Certification in Public Policy Analysis (London School of Economics)
- Certified Shared Value Practitioner (Harvard & FSG)
- Certificate in Impact Analaysis (Next Generation)
- Other international training and development certificates
Key Achievements
- Leadership in M&E Frameworks: Designed and implemented evaluation frameworks for diverse projects funded by EU and other major organizations.
- Policy Dialogue: Key Expert SA-EU Policy Dialogue Facility, managing over 40 initiatives to strengthen policy collaborations between South Africa and the EU.
- Youth and SME Development: Guided programs supporting SMEs and youth leadership development, fostering sustainable business environments and job creation.
- Research and Publications: Co-authored the Africa chapter of the “World Guide to CSR” and led research for multi-country CSR initiatives.
Notable Projects
- SA-EU Dialogue Facility (South Africa): Project Management Unit Key Expert capcity building for 6-year this flagship policy dialogue initiative to enhance relations between South Africa and the European Union. Successfully managed 40 policy dialogues across various sectors, producing impactful policy frameworks, publications, and technical materials to drive collaborative innovation and policy advancement.
- Zantchito Skills for Jobs Program (Malawi): Team Leader supporting MSMEs through policy dialogue and labor law reform, promoting sustainable entrepreneurship.
- National Department of Health (South Africa): Led restructuring efforts to enhance public health systems and operational efficiency.
- Expanded Public Works Program (South Africa): Directed a mid-term evaluation, engaging over 2,000 beneficiaries to measure program effectiveness and sustainability.
Publications and Thought Leadership
Dr. van Niekerk’s contributions include internationally recognized studies on corporate social responsibility and development strategies in Sub-Saharan Africa. His work is featured in academic journals, government reports, and development forums.
He is also co-author for Technical & Vocational Education Hospitality Services student and lecturer guide NQF-2, NQF-3 and NQF-4 levels.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re looking for a trusted partner to help facilitate impactful dialogue and create meaningful solutions, VMM is here for you. Contact us today at info@vmmadvisory.com to explore how we can work together to make a difference.