Job Description

• Set the strategic and operational direction of the Research Unit in ensuring business and industry needs driven research
• Plan, lead and manage the development and implementation of the identified research agenda
• Develop and review the research business case for approval or recommendation for external research requirements
• Prepare reports, guidelines or other documents aimed at disseminating the results and outcomes of research projects for programming, policy and advocacy
• Maintain research data gathered from other institutions and ensure that knowledge generated is secured, shared and applied where applicable
• Develop research related position/discussion papers to inform SAMSA strategy, policies and programmes
• Develop work performance standards and define the quality of work to be delivered
• Conduct relevant micro and macro-environment and impact analyses to inform the strategic direction
• Manage projects effectively through robust integrated planning and interaction with clients
• Manage financial, human and other resources
• Develop and manage performance compliance requirements (e.g. annual business plan, reports and ad-hoc requests)
• Provide reliable Unit financial projections for budgeting purposes and manage the allocated budget
• Identify Unit risks, develop a mitigation plan and implement the plan to manage risks
• Decisively act on Unit audit findings and related management comments to prevent repeat audit findings
• Manage and lead SAMSA research collaboration programmes on bilateral and multi-disciplinary partnerships with industry, academia and other relevant institutions impacting the Maritime Industry
• Interact with and build relationships and joint initiatives with leading research institutes and other key players locally and abroad
• Represent SAMSA at local and international maritime engagement platforms
• Engage and manage internal stakeholder relations
• Effective management of performance for each direct report in line with the Performance Management Guidelines
• Support direct reports in the development and implementation of Individual Development Plans (IDPs)
• Ensure that subordinates effectively apply newly acquired skills for improved performance
• Mentor and supervise Maritime Research personnel

QUALIFICATIONS

• Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Maritime Studies, Research Studies or related qualification (NQF 8)
• Masters degree in Maritime Studies, Research Studies or related qualification (NQF 9)

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• 7 years related work experience of which at least 3 years should be at a managerial/supervisory level
• Must have experience in analysing, conducting and supervising research

COMPETENCIES
High levels of competence on the skills below is a requirement:

• Understanding and application of a range of research methods
• Knowledge of strategic stakeholder engagement processes
• Skilled in the use of Microsoft Office
• Research report writing skills
• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage a range of audiences and stakeholders
• Ability to present ideas, concepts, research findings, etc.
• Excellent organisational and planning skills that ensure work is effectively prioritized to meet deadlines
• Analytical ability with strong attention to detail

As we are committed to Employment Equity in our employment practices, it is our intention to appoint individuals with the aim of meeting our Equity objectives. Preference will be given to African Males, Indian Males, White Females and persons living with disability to achieve the objectives of Employment Equity.