Job Description

Advert reference:

uj_002046

Advert status:

Online

Apply by:

13 August 2025

Position Summary

Industry:

Education & Training

Job category:

Education and Training

Contract:

Fixed Term Contract

Remuneration:

Market related

EE position:

EE

Level:

Skilled

Introduction

UJInvnt is an Intellectual Property Holding Company, the purpose and activity of which will be the acquisition, exploitation, licensing or sublicensing of patents, trademarks, copyrights, brand names or other industrial property rights, like 'know-how' on technical or administrative matters.

Job description

UJInvnt - Its primary objectives are:

to commercialise on behalf of the University opportunities arising from the activities of the University and others, including, but not limited to, Intellectual Property (IP), through several permutations, which range from commercialising IP (licensing, sale of IP assets) to owning equity stakes in new ventures (with outside investors) based on IP assets. to provide technical and training services, consultancy services and courses; and to hold shares on behalf of the Shareholder in other subsidiary companies, and act as the Holding Company for commercial activities.

Job Purpose:

The Commercial Lead is a strategic role responsible for driving investment opportunities, managing portfolio, company growth and maximizing returns for the company.

Responsibilities:

Source and build high-quality, competitive deal flow in various disciplines, including but not limited to AI, biotech, pharmaceuticals, clean energy, chemistry synthetic biology, food, agriculture, manufacturing, nanotechnology and engineering.

Serve as a primary deal shepherd working on a deal end-to-end. Formulate investment memos and structure deals. Work with the Executive Manager to support portfolio companies, expand our network, lead and support onboarding for new investments, manage founder meeting cadences, advise portfolio on strategic planning, and support special projects to accelerate business traction, including preparation for follow-on investments. Provide hands-on support to optimize operations, revenue models, and scalability. Partner with portfolio companies to optimize growth strategies, track KPIs, and prepare for exits. Lead financial, market, and operational analysis of startups, including valuation modelling and risk assessment. Develop business cases for new business opportunities including the provision of commercial and financial input and presentation to stakeholders. Prepare financial models, sensitivity analysis and scenario modelling including interpretation of statistical, financial and accounting information to assist in the evaluation of strategic options, commercial development, and investment decisions. Identify IP with commercial potential and to develop the commercial argument for investment, and/or licensing - this requires the ability to understand the technology and the value chain in which the technology can be applied. Negotiate term sheets, structure investments, and collaborate with legal teams to finalize agreements. Lead negotiations for high-value contracts, ensuring favourable terms and compliance with company policies. Contribute to exit planning, including acquisitions, or secondary sales. Monitor portfolio performance metrics and KPIs to track ROI. Deliver projects within defined timelines and within budget under high pressure. Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, market dynamics and emerging technologies to inform investment theses. Represent the company at industry events, pitch competitions, and networking forums. Prepare performance reports for internal stakeholders and limited partners (LPs).

Minimum requirements

A relevant Postgraduate qualification, minimum of a Master's Degree coupled with a technical background in SET (Science, Engineering or Technology) or Degree in Business Management, Commerce or Accounting, Investment Management. A minimum of five (5) to seven (7) years' experience in the Commercialization of Intellectual Property (IP), Investment Management, Venture Capital, or Development Finance. A minimum of three (3) years' experience in managing a portfolio of technology development projects. A valid driver's licence.

Competencies and Behavioural Attributes:

Appropriate knowledge of IP matters. Strong project management skills and risk analysis. Demonstrable ability in due diligence, and deal structuring Capability to observe how tasks are performed and execute in a similar manner Strong attention to detail Strong self-awareness Excellent written and verbal communication Comfortable with new technologies Ability to handle tasks with little or no direction Consistently deliver high-quality work product Focused on outcomes and getting things done An ability to simplify otherwise complex topics Exceptional organizational skills Ability to work in a fast-paced environment Willingness to learn on the job Advanced financial modelling and strategic commercial analysis skills including high proficiency High-level investment appraisal and business case development skills Very strong commercial and financial acumen An ability to take constructive feedback A professional team player (with zero ego) High level interpersonal skills with the ability to influence outcomes in an organisation with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities in a changing environment.

Recommendations:

A Business Management qualification such as MBA or MBL will be an added advantage. Five (5 ) years in venture capital, private equity, or development finance, impact investment, or corporate development, with a track record of successful deals. Expertise in financial modelling, valuation techniques, (DCF, comparable), data tools (PitchBook, Crunchbase), and term sheet development and negotiation. Deep understanding of technology sectors (e.g., SaaS, AI, blockchain, Health tech), startup ecosystems and scaling challenges. Strong network in target industries, e.g., SaaS, healthcare, AI, engineering. Proficiency in data analytics platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite. Strong project management skills and risk analysis. Ability to use generative AI tools to conduct market intelligence searches, conducting AI powered research, and use of predictive analytics tools will be an added advantage.

Enquiries:

Enquiries regarding the job content:

Dr. Vuyisile Phehane (Executive Manager) at Tel: (011) 559 7228 or vphehane@uj.ac.za

Enquiries regarding remuneration & benefits:

Ms Lebohang Mpeta (Senior Manager: HCM Resourcing) at Tel: (011) 559 7702 or lmpeta@uj.ac.za




Your application, comprising of a detailed Curriculum Vitae as well as the names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of at least three traceable and credible referees must be uploaded before or on the closing date of the advertised post. Please also attach the following: a copy of your highest academic qualification, proof of registration with professional bodies you might belong to and if applying for an academic position, a list of accredited research output and/ or a portfolio of your creative output.


If you require technical support / assistance on the UJ e-recruitment website, please contact our service provider PNET on the following contact details:

0861 227337/010 140 3099

or email ujsupport@pnet.co.za.


Candidates may be subjected to appropriate psychometric testing and other selection instruments.

In conjunction to merit on the basis of qualifications, experience and proven achievements the University of Johannesburg is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and those individuals from the historically disadvantaged groups.

As necessitated by operational requirements the University reserves the right not to make an appointment to positions advertised. If you have not received a response from the University within 8 weeks of the closing date, you should assume that your application has been unsuccessful.