Deputy Director: Project and Proposal Development at South African National Biodiversity Institute

Reference Number: APR/2024/001

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated and professional individual to develop, manage, coordinate, and facilitate SANBI’s Green Climate Fund project pipeline in partnership with the climate change adaptation sector.

This position requires a degree in Natural Sciences, Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. Postgraduate qualification or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 8 years’ experience in the relevant field, 4 years of which should be in the first line management position(s).

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: extensive knowledge and understanding Theory of Change and Logical Framework methodologies, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning; strong leadership capabilities and management skills; strong writing and communication skills, and a track record of professional writing/editing skills; strong project management skills, and ability to successfully support and manage concurrent grant proposal processes; ability to manage high pressure and juggling with multiple stakeholders each with their own challenges whilst multi skilling across multi projects simultaneously; excellent verbal and interpersonal skills, and ability to interact effectively with diverse audiences; ability to work effectively and persuasively with individuals of authority; proven ability to think strategically, analyse information logically, and exercise sound judgement; ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team, the candidate must be flexible and reliable and be a clear-thinker who is able to solve problems and see all sides of a situation; extensive knowledge and experience in working with legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices, systems, and frameworks related project proposal development, funding, stakeholders, and clients; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook). The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Provide strategic leadership for SANBI’s Green Climate Fund (GCF) project pipeline process;
• Develop the Green Climate Fund (GCF) project proposal pipeline including concept note and full proposal development;
• Lead Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning activities; and
• Undertake project management activities.