Deputy Director: Knowledge Economy Support at Northern Cape Department: Economic Development and Tourism

REQUIREMENTS :

• Applicants must be in possession of NQF 7 Degree in Data Science/ Information Systems/ or Knowledge Management. 3-4 years’ experience on ASD level (Junior Management level) in the Public Service, with proven responsibility for managing projects in the science innovation space.
• Added advantage: demonstrated proven experience in at least two of the following domains: Economic development or science diplomacy initiatives, Data and Knowledge Management (including information systems, knowledge management or data analytics to support decision-making) or Stakeholder and intergovernmental coordination involving government, academia, industry and communities. Exposure to, or experience with, initiatives linked to the knowledge economy (e.g. SKA and Astronomy Geographic Advantage, digital innovation ecosystems, MSME innovation support, or similar programmes).

DUTIES :

• Develop/ design, implement and integrate data, and knowledge management systems within the department: Support the promotion of the knowledge economy and information society in the organization and the province. Developing software applications which also includes the management and maintenance thereof. Establish a centralized digital repository for institutional knowledge to ensure long-term retention and accessibility. Implementing Change management interventions with upskilling interventions in terms of systems/databases integration within the department.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Intergovernmental Coordination: Maintaining partnerships with government entities, academic institutions, and industry leaders to foster innovation and economic development. Engage with communities to ensure inclusive participation in SKA-related and other innovative projects. Attending and participating in national, provincial and local stakeholder forums. Maintain strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including government departments, public entities, communities, academic institutions and other industry leaders.
• Promoting, implementing and managing data science /innovation-related projects and/or strategies within the department: Promote the use of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, broadband connectivity, and big data analytics, in the Provincial and Departmental digital ecosystems to enhance decision-making and promote the digital economy in the province. Develop and implement project plans, performance indicators, and delivery timelines to ensure on-time, within-budget project execution.
• Provide operational leadership in the management, coordination, monitoring and evaluation of human resources and activities within the Knowledge Economy Support unit: Management of human resources including: Discipline management, Training and Development, PMDS, Attendance and leave management, General management in terms of Budget monitoring, Input, preparation, implementation, monitoring and reporting on Strategic/ Annual Performance/ Operational and HR Plan of the unit, Management of governance structures and systems, Utilisation and care of assets within the unit, Recordkeeping and reporting.