Office Manager: Foundational Biodiversity Science

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated individual to provide administrative, logistical, financial, and professional services, including project and event related services to the Office of the Chief Director: Foundational Biodiversity Science.

This position requires a degree in Office Administration/Management/Public Administration or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF level 7. A postgraduate degree in Office Administration/Management/Public Administration or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF level 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 4 years of work experience in the relevant field.

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: attention to details; excellent business writing skills; comprehensive knowledge and understanding of office administration/management principles and practices; extensive experience and understanding of legislation, procedures, processes, and systems related to office administration and office management; advanced knowledge and experience in the implementation of policies, practices, systems, Standard Operating Procedures; advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; ability to work under pressure whilst being quality, cost, and safety conscious; excellent communication skills (both verbal and written); proven ability to handle, maintain, and keep confidentiality matters, sound interpersonal relations, a self-starter as well as a passion for working with a diverse team; experience working with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders at different levels; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including advanced Computer literacy skills in Microsoft Office (Ms Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook). A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Ensure efficient execution of administrative and secretarial duties;
• Manage travel arrangements and logistics;
• Assist with the procurement of goods and services;
• Coordinate and arrange meetings and workshops; and
• Take initiative with ad-hoc tasks and assignments.

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 may 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 Mr Stephen Mahlangu on 012 843 5217 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.