Researcher: International Partnerships DVC: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation at Nelson Mandela University

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB

• Working closely with the Deputy Director: Office of International Education, the purpose of the job is to conduct research directed at enhancing the effectiveness of managing the university’s International Partnerships, Manage International Research Networks and International Multilateral Relations.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• To provide research support to the process of developing internationalisation policies
• To conduct research to inform the development of and rolling out of each phase of the global expansion plan of the university, prioritising the African expansion plan
• To provide research informed advice and guidance to the international Partnerships Management team on all the work to be executed in support advisory Task Team assigned to oversee the implementation of the Expansion of the University’s African Footprint Plan
• To assist the Deputy Director to promote the involvement of the University into strategic international networks, alliances and consortia in ways that represents the interests of the University
• To assist the Deputy Director with all research informed advice so as to stay abreast of political developments that impact and or inform the shift of geopolitics and the International Relations position of South Africa as advised by the Department of International Relations and cooperation
• To ensure an effective management of all international Research Networks and Alliances in which the University is a member
• To build a strong network of foreign Ambassadors, Consular Generals and High Commissioners to South Africa and all funding agencies to leverage opportunities for the University to be involved in strategic international networks, alliances and organisations

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Significant knowledge of the South African Higher Education Sector
• Significant knowledge of the legislative and policy environment governing Higher Education in South Africa
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of the broad socioeconomic, political and cultural transformation concerns within the South African Higher Education sector
• Knowledge of the international socioeconomic and the Geopolitical contexts that informs South Africa’s International Relations and the Internationalisation of Higher Education in South Africa
• Deep understanding and knowledge of the socioeconomic and political dynamics of the African continent.
• Knowledge of the African Multilateral Organizations, Treaties, Conventions and Declarations
• Understanding of funding frameworks of international organisations that fund internationalisation initiatives and research collaborations
• Significant Expertise in conducting research, analysing data, producing and presenting high level research reports.
• Demonstrable knowledge and experience of presenting research outcomes to inform the strategic agenda of the University’s internationalisation initiatives
• Excellent written and oral communication skills including report writing
• Strong facilitation and mentoring skills
• Excellent people management skills, interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work well under pressure, learn continuously and adapt to changing internal and external environments
• A service and humanising orientation

Requirements
Candidates must hold a doctoral degree (or must be registered for a doctoral degree and close to completion) and have a minimum of five years relevant experience where such experience includes:

• Working in the Higher Education sector
• Knowledge of International Higher Education Diplomacy
• Proven track record of project management, including the ability to manage, budget for and report on multiple projects
• A track record of working with students within an academic or administrative context
• International Relations training