Deputy Director: Project Coordination 1 – Foundational Biodiversity Information Programme

The position includes delivery of strategic foundational biodiversity data in consultation with the FBIP Steering Committee and the Chief Director Foundational Biodiversity Science by developing and managing regular research funding programmes, directed funding instruments for student support, human capacity development and transformation, consultative and training forums, communication programmes, data bases and systems, and managing personnel, budgets and procurement processes.

The successful candidate must be in possession of a degree or equivalent qualification in Life Sciences/Natural Sciences, Biology at NQF level 7. Relevant postgraduate degree or equivalent qualification at NQF level 8 and above will be an added advantage. This position also requires a minimum of 8 years of work experience in a relevant field, 4 years of which should be in the first line management. In-depth understanding of the national science research and postgraduate education system, proficiency in MS Office, PowerPoint and Excel is essential. A code 8 driver’s license is a requirement.

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Manage and drive the implementation of the FBIP. This includes developing and proposing strategic and tactical adjustments to FBIP approaches and implementing these after endorsement by the FBIP Steering Committee, SANBI Senior management, NRF, and the Department of Science and Innovation.
• Provide secretariat services to the FBIP Steering Committee
• Organise and host the annual FBIP Forums and events.
• Develop and manage a monitoring system for FBIP funded grant outputs including publications, postgraduate students and data sets generated and made accessible.
• Manage, integrate and coordinate foundational biodiversity data generation and national research initiatives by managing national processes for biodiversity data generation.
• Collaborate with the NRF in co-ordinating FBIP research grant calls, research proposal review processes and manage FBIP related capacity building initiatives.
• Develop appropriate communication materials to promote the FBIP activities and programme impacts.
• Manage the operational budget in line with the agreed plan, procurement and report on expenditure and performance (quarterly and annual) to the NRF, Department of Science and Technology and SANBI.