Job Description

This post was previously advertised as Job ID 5507 and Job ID 5678. All applications received in response to the previous advertisement will automatically be considered again. Previous applicants therefore do not need to reapply.KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.Duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct feasibility studies (lean canvas) for and in collaboration with potential startup candidates.
• Provide advisory services, business coaching and mentoring services to potential startups and startups selected to enter and be incubated in the incubator.
• Assist startups in identifying their target markets and refining their value propositions and business strategies.
• Assist startups in setting clear and actionable short and long-term objectives.
• Assist startups in conducting market research and competitive analysis to inform their strategies.
• Provide personalised coaching and mentorship to startups to address their specific business challenges and opportunities.
• Manage business matchmaking activities: The incubator must undertake matchmaking activities

between the startups in the incubator, venture capitalists, angel investors, other financiers, and potential clients. This will take place through matchmaking events, trade fairs, and one-to-one linkups.

• Facilitate consultation services between startups and external partners such as banks, auditors, lawyers, and business mentors.
• Facilitate the smooth operation of startups in the office space provided, where such space includes WIFI, meeting facilities, collaborative working space, individual working space, and communal meeting space.
• Assist in the development of incubator programs, workshops, and events.
• Assist with delivering engaging workshops and training sessions on various business-related topics.
• Track and monitor the progress and milestones of startups.
• Work closely with startups to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and assessment methods.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• An MBA or Master's Degree in the broader Economic and Management Sciences at NQF level nine (9), or equivalent.
• A minimum of three (3) years' relevant experience in coaching startups to become viable operating firms and/or managing startup him/herself successfully to consistent annual profitability.
• Demonstrable duration in employment and track record of successful startups coached towards operational and financial viability or a track record of successful business management.

Recommendations:

• PhD in Business Administration or Business Management, on NQF level ten (10) or related field.

CompetenciesKey Competencies:

• Results-oriented:

- The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
- The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.

• Strategic thinking:

- The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
- The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.

• Business Acumen:

- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.

• Leading:

- The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.

• Building coalitions:

- The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
- The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.Required DocumentsPlease ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application.

• A detailed curriculum vitae and cover letter.
• Copies of qualifications (please provide the SAQA accreditation in the case of foreign qualifications).
• A copy of your identity document (ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals).
• Proof of registration with a Professional Body (if applicable).
• A copy of your driver's license (if applicable).
• Confirmation of employment from current employer / last employer if unemployed (only applicable to external applicants).

Assumption of duties:
01 July 2024 or as soon as possible.Closing date:
23 May 2024.Salary:
The salary is available on request.Fringe benefits:
(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and study benefits.Enquiries:
For enquiries, please feel free to contact me at 051 401 9814 or email at PhokaR@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2979/ 9810/ 9813/ 9848 for assistance.General:
The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups, including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Policy is available at: EEA13_EE Plan UFS 1 March 2022 (003).pdfThe University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

University of the Free State