Assistant Director: Regional Coordination

The South African National Biodiversity Institute is looking for a self-motivated individual to provide support to the overall management of the strategic and operational component of the SANBI Directorate on Biodiversity Evidence in the identified regions to ensure the achievement of SANBI strategic goals. The post requires a suitably qualified and experienced person who will be able to manage a regional unit and co-ordinate robust scientific assessments of the threats and impacts of local invasive alien species on the environment.

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

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: completion of at least one publication is essential; knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices; extensive experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management; advanced experience in the implementation of relevant legislation, policies, procedures, processes, and regulatory framework relevant to invasion biology; in-depth understanding of national and global invasion biology issues; project management skills and systemic visualisation of various projects entailing a programme; attention to detail in dealing with budgeting, analysis of scientific data, financial management, procurement, and reporting; advance knowledge for planning and organising, and advanced statistical reports writing skills; in-depth organisational, analytical, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook). 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:

• Ensure detection program is effectively implemented and managed;
• Manage and coordinate the Eradication Programme;
• Ensure efficient management of the Region’s data and database;
• Execute research and publishing duties; and
• Manage the Regional Unit’s outcomes and performance.

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. 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.

Contact Ms Kaashiefa Bassier on Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8878/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, 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.