Assistant Director: Project Management (Biodiversity Economy Projects) at South African National Biodiversity Institute

• This position requires the candidate to be in possession of a degree in Natural Sciences, Public Administration, Business Management, or relevant field or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage, as would a module/short course/certificate in project management. This position also requires 6 years’ of experience in a relevant field, at least 3 years’ of which should be in project administration or as a project officer.
• The successful candidate will have the following competencies: Knowledge of National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) as well as associated regulations – i.e. experience in the biodiversity sector is essential; Project management knowledge and skills; Experience in complex travel logistics for multi-stakeholder international meetings; Experience in complex minute-taking for scientific and technical meetings, and report writing; Financial management such as budgeting for proposals, report to donors, budgeting and reporting in different currencies, etc. The following experience will be highly advantageous: Knowledge about Government human resources, procurement and financial management processes; Knowledge of biodiversity economy-related processes – e.g. National Biodiversity Economy Strategy, trade in biodiversity and/or wildlife management, national and global biodiversity conservation and prioritisation, and relevant international Conventions; Knowledge and understanding of SANBI policies, procedures, processes, and practices, including contract management.
• Proven ability to work with a diverse team and under pressure whilst being quality, cost, and safety conscious; advanced planning, organizing, interpersonal, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written); excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (MS Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook); and a valid driver’s license with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel are all essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Project administration, coordination and management of work plans and records;
• Assist with budget, financial, and procurement management;
• Manage logistics and assets; and
• Assist with managing Stakeholders and partners.