Technical Advisor: Board Technical Committee at Technology Innovation Agency

• To provide the Board Technical Committee (BTC) with independent, objective and specialist advice that strengthens its oversight and recommendations on technology development, innovation programmes, commercialisation pathways, research and development trends, technology risks, emerging technologies and strategic initiatives related to TIA’s mandate.

Duration of Contract: (12-months' fixed-term appointment, renewable at the discretion of the Board)

Minimum Requirements    
Qualification:

• A master’s degree in science, engineering, technology, innovation management, commercialisation or a related field.

Work Experience:

• At least ten years’ relevant senior-level experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in research, development and innovation, technology commercialisation or venture funding.
• Experience serving on a board, advisory panel, investment committee or an equivalent governance structure.
• Knowledge of systems thinking, policy development and advocacy, innovation theory and thought leadership.
• High ethical standards, professional integrity and the ability to provide independent advice.

Preferred Requirements

• A PhD in a relevant field.
• Senior executive experience or relevant business-school or scholarly experience.
• Experience in technology transfer, intellectual-property exploitation and the commercialisation of technology-based businesses.
• Knowledge of the South African National System of Innovation, public-sector governance, the PFMA and applicable Treasury requirements.
• Experience in innovation funding, venture capital, blended finance, strategic innovation programmes, portfolio management or investment due diligence.
• Strong background in policy and strategy development

 Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking; systems thinking; technical judgement; commercial acumen; governance awareness; risk assessment; strategic foresight; stakeholder engagement; analytical report writing; verbal communication; independence; integrity; and sound decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities    
Key Responsibilities

• Attend BTC meetings and provide independent technical advice on a policy / strategic level in areas such as advanced technologies, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and other strategic technology domains relevant to TIA’s mandate.
• Review committee documentation and provide technical commentary on matters referred to the BTC.
• Assess innovation potential, commercialisation readiness, scalability, market relevance and alignment with TIA’s mandate.
• Identify technology, commercialisation, innovation and portfolio risks, and recommend appropriate mitigation measures.
• Advise on emerging technologies, innovation ecosystems and industry developments.
• Undertake specialised reviews approved by the BTC Chairperson, including validation of technical assumptions and evaluation of research, development and strategic technology initiatives.
• Support sound, evidence-based recommendations through technical analysis, strategic foresight and relevant industry good practice.

Remuneration and Other Conditions

• Remuneration will be determined in accordance with applicable Treasury requirements and TIA Board-approved remuneration principles. Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses may be reimbursed where approved and in accordance with TIA policies.

Deadline:6th October,2026