Senior Manager Research: VIMP (Roodeplaat) 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

• PhD in the related field, e.g. Vegetables/Industrial/Medicinal Crops Sciences (including Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Biotechnology etc.).
• A minimum of 10 years’ relevant experience in research and development within the Crop Sciences environment.
• At least 10 years’ experience at middle management level.
• Research Experience in Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Crops will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrated strong research output and fundraising track record, including competitive grants.
• 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, ability and willingness to travel (locally and abroad).
• Professional registration or membership with a relevant scientific body (advantageous).
• Evidence of national and international scientific recognition.
• Demonstrated public speaking experience, including presentations, media engagements (e.g., radio & television), and poster or exhibition participation.
• A minimum of 25 peer-reviewed scientific publications.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 FEBRUARY 2026