Assistant Director: Project Management Biodiversity Assessments

The South African National Biodiversity Institute is looking for a self-motivated individual to assist in managing projects for biodiversity assessments; specifically with regards to compliance, reporting requirements and governance processes.

This position requires the candidate to be in possession of a degree in Natural Sciences, Public Administration, Business Management, or relevant field or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage, as would a module/short course/certificate in project management.  This position also requires 6 years’ experience in a relevant field, at least 3 years of which should be in project administration or as a project officer.

The successful candidate will have the following competencies: Knowledge of National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) as well as associated regulations – i.e. experience in the biodiversity sector is essential; Project management knowledge and skills; Experience in complex travel logistics for multi-stakeholder international meetings; Experience in complex minute-taking for scientific and technical meetings, and report writing; Financial management such as budgeting for proposals, report to donors, budgeting and reporting in different currencies, etc.

The following experience will be highly advantageous: Knowledge about Government human resources, procurement and financial management processes; Knowledge of biodiversity assessment related processes – e.g. Red List, National Biodiversity Assessment, ecosystem mapping, spatial planning and prioritisation, and Key Biodiversity Assessments; Knowledge and understanding of SANBI policies, procedures, processes, and practices, including contract management.

Proven ability to work with a diverse team and under pressure whilst being quality, cost, and safety conscious; advanced planning, organizing, interpersonal, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (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); and a valid driver’s license with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel are all essential.

Key performance responsibilities include:

• Manage project work plans and records;
• Assist with budget, financial and procurement management;
• Manage logistics and assets; and
• Assist with managing Stakeholders and partners.

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 authorized 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. For more information, kindly refer to SANBI’s website.

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.

Applications consisting of the completed application form, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via an e-mail to recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za

Postal applications must be addressed to:

Deputy Director: Human Resources
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Private Bag X7
Claremont
7735

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.

Enquiries:
Mr Veli Ngobese
Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8636/8800