Manager : Innovation Hub - (2331) at University of Western Cape

• This role will lead, manage, and coordinate the strategic development and operational delivery of the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) Innovation Hub Precinct, located at 405 Voortrekker Road, Parow, including managing associated innovation-driven projects, stakeholder engagement, infrastructure planning, and economic development initiatives.

Reporting to the Director Business Development, the responsibilities include:

Leadership & Planning

• Develop and implement plans for the Innovation Hub Precinct.
• Align precinct projects with broader economic development and innovation strategies.

Project Management

• Oversee the delivery of multiple innovation-focused projects.
• Ensure timely execution, budget control, and quality outcomes.
• Apply best practices in agile, design thinking, or other innovation methodologies.

Precinct Management

• Coordinate facilities use and ensure optimal use of building facilities including the studios and showrooms.
• Coordinate infrastructure and equipment maintenance management with various departments to ensure the smooth operation of academic activities that are directly relevant to the Hub's infrastructure and technological resources.
• Manage events such as tours and all comprehensive administrative functions related thereto with capacity to organize and oversee events.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and manage partnerships with universities, startups, investors, industry, and government.
• Facilitate collaboration of stakeholder engagements on various platforms.
• Customer Relationship Management and communication with a broad range of stakeholders within both the university and external market that are important for the Hub's diverse partnerships and collaborations.

Governance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with governance, regulatory, and funding requirements.
• Report on project milestones, KPIs, and precinct performance.
• Compile annual operational budget.

Operational Oversight & People Management

• Oversee precinct operations, facilities, tenant management, and day-to-day activities.
• Manage procurement, service contracts, and space utilization.
• Perform supervisory roles to the Interns and other student assistant recruitment and assist with the recruitment process and aligning the role's on implementing and improving the ARVR Development Programmes.

Business Development & Innovation Ecosystem Growth

• Promote the precinct as a hub for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
• Attract new tenants, partners, and investment opportunities.
• Promote the immersive technologies and other facilities for future business.

Minimum Requirements

• A postgraduate qualification in Management, Business Administration, or a related field at NQF Level 8.
• At least 5 years’ experience in the higher education sector, including:
• A minimum of 2 years' experience supervising and leading staff; and
• Experience in managing a precinct or similar operational environment.
• A valid driver's license with a minimum of 2 years' driving experience.

Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated experience in managing and coordinating multiple innovation-focused projects.
• Proven ability to coordinate and oversee complex, high-level administrative functions, including finance management, human resources and procurement.
• Sound knowledge of precinct management, including the coordination of infrastructure maintenance and equipment upkeep.

Closing Date

11/8/2026