Senior Manager (P6) (Division for Research Development & Support: Technology Transfer Office) at University of Johannesburg

Job Description:

• Reporting to the Director: Technology Transfer Office, the Senior Manager is responsible for taking a lead role in the provision of specialist, high-level financial and commercial analysis and insights to support strategic, regulatory, business development, innovation, and other investment opportunities of the TTO.
• The Senior Manager is responsible for the provision of comprehensive strategic advice and recommendations to the Director: Technology Transfer Office relating to emerging innovations, corporate development, and corporate planning opportunities primarily in the commercial technology sector.
• Planning, executing, and evaluating projects according to predetermined timelines and budgets.

Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the overall end-to-end management of the Technology Transfer Office business to meet Council objectives.
• Continuously improve the performance of the TTO in portfolio management
• Deliver on sustainable financial targets towards the performance of the TTO, and deliver satisfactory return on the commercialization of IP.
• Assess the requirements associated with the IP portfolio of the University, project, and determine the best project strategy with due regard for complexity, effectiveness, efficiency, cost, and risk factor.
• Conduct full business due diligence comprising business analysis, market and competitor analysis, technical analysis, and financial analysis with the ultimate objective of establishing investment risks, negotiating licenses, structuring deals, and planning exits from investments.
• Responsible for the development of business cases for new business opportunities, including the provision of commercial and financial input and presentation to stakeholders.
• Responsible for the preparation of financial models, sensitivity analysis, and scenario modelling, including interpretation of statistical, financial, and accounting information to assist in the evaluation of strategic options, commercial development, and investment decisions.

Minimum requirements

• A relevant Postgraduate qualification, minimum of a Master’s Degree (NQF Level 9), coupled with a technical background in SET (Science, Engineering or Technology).
• Degree in Business Management, Commerce, or Accounting. A Business Management qualification, such as an MBA or MBL, will be an added advantage.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in managing a portfolio of technology development projects.
• A minimum of seven (7) to ten (10) years’ experience in the commercialization of Intellectual Property (IP).
• Demonstrable ability in due diligence and deal structuring.
• Strong project management skills and risk analysis.
• The ability to interpret market reports and develop market penetration strategies.
• Appropriate knowledge of IP matters.
• Risk management: experienced in the identification, assessment, and management of project risks.
• Capable of training, supervising, and managing staff in a project management environment.
• Proven track record of delivering projects within defined timelines under high pressure.
• Project budgeting and reporting experience.

Competencies and Behavioural Attributes:

• Good presentation and facilitation skills.
• Ability to build internal and external networks on all levels.
• Understanding of macro structures within an academic institution.
• Understanding of research management principles and procedures.
• Ability to communicate issues relating to technology transfer at all levels.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams.
• Critical thinking skills.
• Sound judgement and sound decision-making skills.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.

Recommendations:

• Advanced financial modelling and strategic commercial analysis skills, including high proficiency.
• High-level investment appraisal and business case development skills.
• Advanced strategic commercial and problem-solving skills and ability to think strategically, innovatively, and laterally to identify issues and develop recommendations to solve problems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including developing presentations and report writing, providing advice, direction, and support to Senior Management.
• High-level interpersonal skills with the ability to influence outcomes in an organisation with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities in a changing environment.
• Demonstrated capacity to successfully manage broad responsibilities and complex issues at senior organisational levels.
• Professional skills in computer operations, business systems, and tools, including Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent written, verbal, listening, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation related to Intellectual Property (IPP).

Apply by: 20 February 2026