Chief Director: Biodiversity Information and Policy Advice

Inclusive remuneration package of R1 189 338 per annum, of which 70% is basic and the balance structured by the incumbent.

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)’s primary mandate is to generate, coordinate and interpret the knowledge and evidence required to support policies and decisions relating to better management and conservation of South Africa’s biodiversity assets and ecological infrastructure.

Through delivering on this mandate, SANBI has contributed to the national development agenda by, for example, supporting the streamlining of development decision-making, demonstrating the potential of ecological infrastructure for water security, providing direct access to climate finance for climate change resilience and poverty reduction, and stimulating job creation.

SANBI is a knowledge-based organisation and operates at the interface between research, policy and implementation, linking biodiversity science with government and with society. Its function is to ensure that the best available scientific knowledge is used to inform policy and decision-making and it therefore fills a unique role within the South African biodiversity sector.

This exciting career opportunity is available for the right candidate to be strategically involved and lead the biodiversity agenda.

Requirements

A post graduate qualification in the Natural Sciences or a discipline relevant to the scope of work enhanced by a minimum of 10 years’ experience; 5 of which should be at senior management level. Ability to travel extensively and therefore a valid Code B driver’s license will be required. A Master’s degree will be an added advantage. 

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and apply innovative tools to support management and the mainstreaming of biodiversity assets and ecological infrastructure in production sectors and natural resource management.
• Provide access to biodiversity data, information and knowledge through a national open access integrated biodiversity information system.
• Provide scientific advice to support national and international policy processes.
• Support and drive human capital development and transformation.
• Secure donor funding for large scale projects towards implementing the SANBI mandate and the South African National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
• Deliver on the Corporate Strategic Plan and on the Annual Performance Plan on areas that the Division is responsible for.
• Increase the profile of SANBI’s role in policy advice and information management.
• Ensure effective partner and stakeholder relationships.

Please do not apply online for this position. Please send your application to: recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za.

Please note:

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

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

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

4) Failure to submit the requested information may result in your application not being considered.

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 currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Mr Maano Netshiombo on (012) 843 5295 or preferably, forward the completed application form, a motivation letter, concise CV, and certified copies of qualifications, ID and drivers licence via e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za. Postal applications are to be addressed to: Chief Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria National Botanical Garden, 2 Cussonia Avenue, Brummeria, Pretoria, 0184

or

Private Bag X101,
Silverton,
0184.

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 may consider their applications unsuccessful.