Job Description

• Resource Allocation:

Managing budgetary and resource allocation to support the institution's mission and goals. * Process Improvement:
Identify and implement efficiencies to enhance service delivery and reduce costs. * Strategic Planning:
Collaborate with Executive Manager: Core, to develop and execute strategic plans that align with the institution's mission and vision. * Lead and Direct:
Lead and Direct the Institute's Research Management Agenda. * Shared Services Management:
Collaborate with the Executive Management Shared Services/ Corporate Support, in overseeing the shared services functions within the institution, ensuring they operate cohesively and meet their respective objectives. * Policy Implementation:
Ensure that policies, procedures, and regulations are effectively communicated and adhered to throughout the Institute. * Performance Evaluation:
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess the institution's performance and make data-driven decisions. * Risk Management:
Identifying and mitigating operational risks and challenges that could impact the institution's mission or reputation. * Stakeholder Relations:
Building and maintaining positive relationships with internal and externa stakeholders. * Innovation and Technology:
Promoting the adoption of innovative technologies and practices to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness. * Emergency Response and Continuity Planning:
Implement plans for emergency response, business continuity, and disaster recovery. * Compliance and Legal Affairs:
Ensuring that the institution complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards. * Human Resources Management:
Collaborating with Human Capital Business Partner, oversee personnel, including hiring, training, and performance management, to maintain a skilled and motivated workforce. * Financial Management:
Collaborating with Finance Business Partner, oversee campus's finances and financial health, budget and cost management and financial reporting. * Communication and Reporting:
Providing regular updates to Executive leadership, governing boards, and other stakeholders on operational performance and progress toward goals. * Conflict Resolution:
Handling internal conflicts and disputes within the Institute in a fair and constructive manner. * Crisis Management:
Leading the institution's response to crises or emergencies, coordinating efforts to mitigate negative impacts. * Ethical Leadership:
Upholding and promoting ethical standards and values within the organization, setting a positive example for all employees. * Stakeholder Engagement:
Engaging with Stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns and ensuring the institution's services are responsive to those needs.

• PhD in the related field, e.g. Vegetables/Industrial/Medicinal Crops Sciences (including Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Biotechnology etc.).
• A minimum of 10 years' relevant experience in research and development within the Crop Sciences environment.
• At least 10 years' experience at middle management level.
• Research Experience in Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Crops will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrated strong research output and fundraising track record, including competitive grants.
• Proven capability in project and programme management, partnership development, and collaborative research.
• Excellent organizational, planning, monitoring, and control skills, with strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Sound performance and financial management skills, with demonstrated leadership and negotiation ability.
• Proven experience in personnel, financial and facilities management.
• Valid driver's license, ability and willingness to travel (locally and abroad).
• Professional registration or membership with a relevant scientific body (advantageous).
• Evidence of national and international scientific recognition.
• Demonstrated public speaking experience, including presentations, media engagements (e.g., radio & television), and poster or exhibition participation.
• A minimum of 25 peer-reviewed scientific publications.

Enquiries: Prof BONGANI NDIMBA, Tel: (021) 809 3000
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 FEBRUARY 2026
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance, competency/leadership assessments and preference will be given to designated groups (including people with disabilities) in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license) and at least three contactable referees must be attached on the form.
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

Skills Required