Senior Manager Research: Tropical & Amp; Subtropical Crops: (Five (5) Years Fixed Term Contract) (Nelspruit) at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Resource Allocation: Managing budgetary and resource allocation to support the institution's mission and goals.
• Process Improvement: Identify and implement efficiencies to enhance service delivery and reduce costs.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with Executive Manager: Core, to develop and execute strategic plans that align with the institution's mission and vision.
• Lead and Direct:  Lead and Direct the Institute’s Research Management Agenda.
• Shared Services Management: Collaborate with the Executive Management Shared Services/ Corporate Support, in overseeing the shared services functions within the institution, ensuring they operate cohesively and meet their respective objectives.
• Policy Implementation: Ensure that policies, procedures, and regulations are effectively communicated and adhered to throughout the Institute.
• Performance Evaluation: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess the institution's performance and make data-driven decisions.
• Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating operational risks and challenges that could impact the institution's mission or reputation.
• Stakeholder Relations: Building and maintaining positive relationships with internal and externa stakeholders.
• Innovation and Technology: Promoting the adoption of innovative technologies and practices to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.
• Emergency Response and Continuity Planning: Implement plans for emergency response, business continuity, and disaster recovery.
• Compliance and Legal Affairs: Ensuring that the institution complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Human Resources Management: Collaborating with Human Capital Business Partner, oversee personnel, including hiring, training, and performance management, to maintain a skilled and motivated workforce.
• Financial Management: Collaborating with Finance Business Partner, oversee campus’s finances and financial health, budget and cost management and financial reporting.
• Communication and Reporting: Providing regular updates to Executive leadership, governing boards, and other stakeholders on operational performance and progress toward goals.
• Conflict Resolution: Handling internal conflicts and disputes within the Institute in a fair and constructive manner.
• Crisis Management: Leading the institution's response to crises or emergencies, coordinating efforts to mitigate negative impacts.
• Ethical Leadership: Upholding and promoting ethical standards and values within the organization, setting a positive example for all employees.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with Stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns and ensuring the institution's services are responsive to those needs. 

Requirements

• Doctoral Degree (PhD or DSc) with post-doctoral research experience in Plant Science, Crop Science, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of ten (10) years’ relevant experience post PhD in research and development within the crops science sector.
• A minimum of twenty-five (25) peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Experience in tropical and subtropical crops will be an added advantage.
• At least ten (10) years’ experience at middle management level, five (5) years relevant experience in research and development in the Crop Sciences environment.
• Proven capability in project and programme management, partnership development, and collaborative research.
• Excellent organizational, planning, monitoring, and control skills, with strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Sound performance and financial management skills, with demonstrated leadership and negotiation ability.
• Proven experience in personnel, financial and facilities management.
• Valid driver's license.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:  28 APRIL 2026