Executive Director Technology, Transfer and Innovation at Vaal University of Technology

BACKGROUND:

• The Vice Chancellor (VC) & Principal, Prof Khehla Ndlovu is seeking like-minded professionals keen to contribute to the strategic direction and turnaround of VUT. Therefore, a professional is sought to lead in the role of Executive Director: Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI).
• The potential incumbent will provide strategic leadership to VUT, promoting a culture of excellence in all activities and areas related to Innovation, Commercialisation, Entrepreneurship and Technology Transfer.
• As a member of the executive of VUT, the incumbent actively supports the VC and the DVC: Research, Innovation, Commercialisation & Internationalisation in the strategic leadership and management of the institution, as well as in supervising administrative functions through line reports. While each executive oversees defined portfolios, these may change at the discretion of the VC.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Key performance areas include but not limited to:

• Strategic leadership: Lead the development and execution of the TTI’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with national and institutional priorities.
• Innovation Management: Drive innovation and create a culture that supports new ideas and solutions.
• Stakeholder Management and Liaison: Establish and maintain strong relationships with industry partners, investors, academic partners and internal departments to maximise technology impact.
• Resources & People Management: Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team in technology transfer, licensing, and innovation
• Budgeting, Management, and Resource Allocation: ensuring alignment with the institutional goals, efficient resource allocation and financial accountability.
• Policy & Governance: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of technology transfer strategies and policies, adjusting as needed.

APPLICATION CRITERIA
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications

• A Master’s Degree or NQF level 9 in Engineering Management / Technology Management / Business Administration / Digital Innovation or related fields.

Required Experience:

• Minimum 8 - 10 years’ experience in the Higher Education Sector, 5 years of which must have been at a Senior Management within the Technology, Transfer and Innovation or similar environment.
• Excellent knowledge and understanding of intellectual property laws, licensing agreements, entrepreneurship and the commercialisation process.
• Demonstrated ability to network and work with a wide range of different constituencies internally and externally.
• Proven experience in a leadership role within technology transfer, commercialisation, or innovation management.

Added Advantage

• Knowledge of academic, research, and administrative processes, regulatory frameworks and challenges of universities in emerging markets.
• Excellent knowledge, understanding, and networking with fundraising, philanthropic foundations, corporate social investment, and the university environment.
• Relevant Experience within the Higher Education sector / industry knowledge-intensive sectors.

Technical Skills and Competencies:

• Analytical thinking/Problem solving;
• Interpersonal relationships;
• Building partnerships;
• People management;
• Resource management;
• Strategic leadership;
• Data-informed decision-making and judgement;
• Conceptual thinking;
• Impact and influence;
• Planning & organising;
• Attention to Detail;

Results and Deadline Oriented;

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Excellent Teamwork.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 09th December 2025