Assistant Director: Biological Invasions & Risk Analyses

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to manage the Directorate’s programme of work on analysing the risks associated with biological invasions, both as part of SANBI and Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment responsibility, and more broadly as part of South Africa's commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity and other agreements.

This position requires a degree in Natural Sciences, Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 7. A relevant postgraduate qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. The position requires 6 years’ experience in the relevant field, 3 years of which should be in supervisory position(s).

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: comprehensive knowledge and understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation including knowledge of legislation, policies, procedures, processes, systems, and frameworks related to biodiversity and water conservation; extensive experience and understanding of financial management, project management, human resources management, supply chain management, corporate governance and risk management policies, procedures, processes, systems, and frameworks; knowledge of National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) and invasive alien species regulations, knowledge of biology of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) and biota affected by Invasive Alien Species, experience in multi-stakeholder project management, including budgeting, procurement, monitoring and evaluation; advanced planning, organizing, interpersonal, and problem solving skills; excellent communication skills (both verbal and written);  excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) will be advantageous. The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Provide direction and leadership to the Alien Species Risk Analysis Review Panel;
• Execute research, analysis and publishing duties;
• Manage information and reports in line with the Division’s objectives;
• Manage contracts and partnerships in line with the Division’s objectives; and
• Facilitate human resource management, development and transformation within the Unit.

Application procedure:
1) An application form must accompany the CV together with a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for this position, and certified qualifications confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of meeting minimum qualifications and relevant experience will not be considered).

2) A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.

3) Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.

4) Failure to submit the requested information and reference number shall result in your application not being considered.

Personal Information will be processed by SANBI for purposes of assessing your suitability for the advertised position. SANBI may also share your personal information including special personal information with service providers or third parties, both within the Republic of South Africa and in other jurisdictions, to carry out verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, background and reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. In this regard, by virtue of your application, you acknowledge that SANBI’s authorised verification agent(s) and service providers will access your personal information including special personal information to conduct background screening, verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks.

Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position. All applications will be considered with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Mr Vusumuzi Mncwango on 082 7372 125 for any queries related to seeking clarity on this position. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications must be submitted via an e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za. Postal applications must be addressed to:

Assistant Director: Human Resources
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Private Bag X101
Pretoria
0001.

Candidates are expected to be available for selection interviews on a date and time as determined by SANBI. If no response has been received within 30 days of the closing date, candidates must consider their applications unsuccessful.