Job Description

Purpose of Role

We are seeking a forward-thinking and strategic leader to head our Learning, Innovation and Digital Strategy function. This role sits at the intersection of research, knowledge, learning, innovation, and technology, shaping how AGGP_SA learns, adapts, and drives transformation within South Africa's entrepreneurship ecosystem.

As the Head, you will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for research excellence, impact evaluation, knowledge and data systems, learning strategy, innovation design, and digital transformation. You will be the architect of an integrated learning and innovation ecosystem that positions AGGP_SA as a thought leader and digital pioneer in entrepreneurship development.

Objectives of Role

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP

Lead AGGP_SA's research, learning, innovation,and digital transformation strategies to ensure alignment with the organisation's vision and ecosystem goals. Drive evidence-based decision-making across the organisation through robust knowledge, data,and impact measurement systems. Partner with executive leaders toembed research-driven and technology enabled practices across the Diagnose, Demonstrate and Dialogue pillars, ensuring alignment with the Group AI Strategy and key AI objectives. Own AGGP_SA's AI-for learning vision ensuring all learning, research,and digital initiatives embed responsible AI, with clear value, risk controls, and measurable outcomes.

RESEARCH, DATA & INSIGHTS

Oversee AGGP_SA's research agenda and ensure that all studies and insights contribute to strategy formulation, programme design,and ecosystem-level advocacy. Drive the generation of actionable insights and evidence that strengthen AGGP_SA's role as a thought leader in entrepreneurship development. Ensure the integration of research, knowledge, and data into strategy, planning and performance processes.

IMPACT EVALUATION & LEARNING

Oversee AGGP_SA's impact evaluation and measurement portfolio to assess progress against the organisation's Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs). Lead the translation of research and evaluation out comes into learning and insight products for internal teams and ecosystem partners. Champion a learning culture internally,fostering reflection, innovation, continuous improvement.

INNOVATION & DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Design and implement AGGP_SA's innovation strategy to cultivate new ideas, test solutions,and scale high-impact initiatives. Lead the organisation's digital transformation agenda, driving the design of digital platforms, knowledge systems,and enterprise technology that enhance efficiency and access. Oversee digital learning and innovation ecosystems,ensuring AGGP_SA leverages technology to strengthen collaboration, data access, and entrepreneurship development. Drive innovation incentive programmes, hackathons, and internal learning activations that nurture creativity and experimentation. Promote the adoption of AI as a central pillar in the digital transformation journey, leveraging AI-driven tools and solutions to optimise operational processes, enhance learning experiences, and unlocknewopportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.

KNOWLEDGE & SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT

Build and maintain knowledge management and data systems,proactively leveraging AI, to provide seamless
access to credible, high-quality entrepreneurship insights.
Ensure the institutionalisation of best practice knowledge management culture and processes. Oversee the development of user-friendly digital platforms for knowledge sharing and ecosystem engagement.

TEAM LEADERSHIP & COLLABORATION

Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of Leads and Specialists across research,impact evaluation, learning, innovation,and data. Buildstrong partnerships across the organisation and with external stakeholders including a cademic institutions, ecosystem partners, and funder Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation.

Experience and Qualifications

Master's Degree (NQFLevel9) Minimum 10 years' relevant experience (3-5years at Executive Level)

Competencies

Astrategic systems thinker who can translate complexity into clarity. Experienced in leading multi-disciplinary teams and cross-functional digital initiatives. Skilled in research leadership, innovation management, and digital transformation. A curious and reflective leader who values learning, collaboration, and experimentation. Passionate about entrepreneurship, development,and evidence-based transformation * Excited about leveraging AI for your department's deliverables and experienced in leading AI enabled initiatives in education, workforce development, or entrepreneurship programs.