Manager at University of Western Cape

Job Description

The UWC Technology Transfer Office (TTO) sits within the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation portfolio. Key functions of the TTO are to (1) raise awareness of the national legislation on IP, UWC Research and IP Policy, and the value of protecting IP (2) manage IP disclosures and protection (3) support and facilitate the protection and commercialisation of UWC’s IP and (4) to promote a culture of innovation.

• The role of the Technology Transfer Manager involves developing strong relationships with UWC’s researchers, as well as with industrial, commercial and other partners, in order to identify, develop, market and transfer UWC’s intellectual property into use in society.

Key Responsibilities:

• Review and assess the commercial potential of IP disclosures
• Determine the best routes to achieve impact (e.g. licensing to a third party, new venture creation)
• Develop, protect and manage the IP emanating from UWC
• Negotiate and conclude relevant contracts
• Business plan development and sourcing of funding
• Promote and represent the UWC’s technology transfer function to internal and external stakeholders, including training and awareness events
• Manage and/or support the preparation of NIPMO-required submissions
• General management of TTO operations and activities as well as specific TTO-led initiatives.

Requirements

• Minimum Qualification: Postgraduate degree in a relevant Science/Engineering/Technology discipline and a recognised business/finance course(s)/qualification(s).
• Preferred: PhD in relevant Science/Engineering/Technology discipline and recognised business/finance qualification(s).

Experience:

Minimum (at least):

• 3 years working in the technology transfer/innovation/commercialisation field
• 3 years’ experience in project management and/or new product/business development
• 3 years post-graduate research or other relevant work experience.

Preferred (at least):

• 5 years working in the technology transfer/innovation/commercialisation field
• 5 years’ experience in project management and/or new product/business development
• 5 years’ postgraduate research or other relevant work experience
• 3 years’ experience in finance/accounting.

Knowledge and skills:

• Excellent communication and people management skills, especially the ability to converse persuasively with a range of stakeholders at all levels
• Solid understanding of the IPR-PFRD Act.