Deputy Director: Project Coordination 1 – Foundational Biodiversity Information Programme

Reference Number: FBS/004/2025

All-inclusive remuneration package of R per annum

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, highly motivated, dedicated professional and responsible individual to provide efficient and effective management and coordination for implementation of the Foundational Biodiversity Information Programme (FBIP). The FBIP is funded by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and jointly managed with the National Research Foundation (NRF). 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 licence 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.

Please note:

• Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by 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).
• A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
• Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.
• Failure to submit the requested information and reference number shall 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 be given to candidates from the designated groups.

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.