Job Description

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires the services of a self-motivated, innovative, business focused and results-driven individual to ensure the conservation and appreciation of the natural, cultural and historic values of the Lowveld National Botanical Garden in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga Province, through the development and implementation of strategic and operational plans and programs, consistent with statutory responsibilities and corporate policies.

This position requires a degree in Horticulture, Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification NQF 7. A postgraduate qualification or equivalent qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 8 years of work experience in relevant field, 4 years of which should be in first line management position(s) practising as a Horticulturist. Experience must also include management and supervising operational line management functions especially that of teams and support services.

The following competencies are required of the candidate to be successful in this position: extensive experience and knowledge of nature-based tourism, business management principles, conservation, horticulture, nursery infrastructure maintenance, business administration, and training and development; comprehensive knowledge, understanding, and experience in national and global biodiversity conservation including broad understanding of national and global botanical garden management; extensive knowledge about legislation, policies, procedures, process, practices, systems, and frameworks related to biodiversity conservation and botanical garden management; advanced knowledge on management of organisational finances and budgeting processes and principles, human resources requirements, policies, procedures and processes, corporate governance principles and corporate governance and compliance requirements; excellent project and programme management skills, proven ability to work with diverse team whilst under pressure being quality, cost, health, and safety conscious; advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) will be advantageous. The possession of a valid driver's licence (minimum B) with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Provide strategic leadership in the development, implementation and maintenance of operations of the National Botanical Garden, their living collections, associated estates, facilities and infrastructure;
• Ensure that there is proper governance within the National Botanical Garden, effective budget management, project management, income generation and marketing of operations for the national botanical gardens;
• Develop and maintain strategic partnerships;
• Ensure effective contract management;
• Improve workplace health, safety and security; and
• Drive Human Capital Development and Transformation within the Garden.

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 authorized 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 Ms Innocent Maswanganyi on Tel: +27 (0)21 7998651/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via an e-mail to

Postal applications must be addressed to:

Deputy Director: Human Resources Operations
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.

Closes: Wednesday, 6 December 2023
Job type: Permanent
Salary: R958 824.00
Location: Mbombela

ABOUT SANBI

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) contributes to South Africa's sustainable development by facilitating access to biodiversity data, generating information and knowledge, building capacity, providing policy advice, showcasing and conserving biodiversity in its national botanical and zoological gardens.

SANBI