Chief Director: Research, Analysis, Innovation and Policy Development at Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)

Key functions:

• Develop and implement a research and innovation strategy aligned with the QCTO’s mandate and goals.
• Manage multi-disciplinary teams in research, development and innovation projects.
• Produce strategic documents such as strategies, submissions, position papers and reports.
• Facilitate local and international collaboration on research and innovation.
• Ensure the integration of the latest technologies and sustainability principles into the organisation’s planning.

Strategic Research and Policy Development

• Lead and direct applied research initiatives that inform QCTO strategy.
• Ensure research findings are translated into an institutional framework and policies.
• Provide conceptual clarity for QCTO Quality Assurance Framework.

Innovation and Responsiveness

• Drive innovation of the OQSF.
• Conduct research to inform the development of qualifications, part-qualifications and skills programmes that align with labour market needs and the economy.
• Implement Monitoring and Evaluation projects to assess the effectiveness of the OQSF.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Lead the collection, management and analysis of PSET and OQSF-related data.
• Produce trend reports, impact assessments and predictive analytics to guide institutional planning and reporting.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

• Engage with key stakeholders, industry and international partners.
• Advocate for evidence-based reforms and innovations in the PSET sector.

Support to the CEO

• Provide content input and support for CEO engagements.  

Job Requirements

Requirements:

• M.Ed in Education, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or related to NQF/PSET
• A PhD will be an added advantage
• 10 years collective working experience in research, policy development or innovation roles – preferably within the NQF/PSET sector
• 5 years’ experience at a senior management level
• Proven track record of publications, presentations, or leading high-impact research projects completed
• Experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and large-scale projects
• Experience in research and analysis
• Experience in quality assurance
• Experience in engaging and managing strategic stakeholders.