Job Description

Duties/Responsibilities

Commercialisation Pipeline Support and Documentation Partnership Development Licensing Support Spinout Support Commercialisation Forum Secretariat Support Reporting, M&E and Benefits Tracking

Minimum requirements

A tertiary qualification / University degree (or higher) in Commerce or Science/Engineering or Innovation/Entrepreneurship Short courses in Innovation management, Entrepreneurship development, Technology transfer, Project management, or Venture building, will be an added advantage 3 years experience in Technology transfer, Commercialisation, early-stage venture or enterprise development with demonstrable exposure to at least two of the following: + Preparing pitch decks, one-pagers and market briefs + Supporting the drafting and routing of term sheets or licence documents
+ Spinout operations support (CIPC filings, basic compliance packs)
+ Start-up support (meeting logistics, grant/proposal support, tracking KPIs)
Identification and engagement of prospective Commercialisation partners Fundraising processes (grant applications, diligence checklists) Drafting/routing of license documents Establishment and aftercare of spinouts/start-ups

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours)

Commitment to the development and Commercialisation of research-based innovations Working knowledge of the innovation value chain and university Commercialisation processes Stakeholder coordination skills (researchers, advisors, investors, industry) Basic understanding of early-stage funding pathways and deal documentation Excellent written and verbal communication Strong interpersonal skills, organisational skills, time management skills Ability to multi-task; meticulous attention to detail High computer literacy Ability to work in a team and independently Reporting and presentation skills Familiarity with CIPC compliance, Commercialisation of publicly funded R&D outputs Experience with basic analytics dashboards Event coordination and external-facing professionalism Initiative, curiosity, and a continuous-improvement mindset

Detailed Description

Job Requirements

Additional Details

How To Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter clearly outlining your skills and experience, indicating the post that you are applying for, together with a CV and the names and contact details of at least three (3) references on the link: https://wits-enterprise.co.za/vacancies/55596/business-development-officer-commercialisation-venture-support-3-year-fixed-term-contract/

For queries, contact Sonti Masike, Executive PA/HR Officer, by email
on recruitment.witsenterprise@wits.ac.za

Closing date: 12 September 2025

, close of business

The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.

Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.





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Work At Home