Job Description

Reference Number: FBS/014/2024The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a highly motivated individual to provide strategic leadership, direction and management for the Biodiversity Biobanks South Africa (BBSA) which is a network of institutions including science councils and universities that hold biodiversity biobanks (e.g. gene banks, seed banks, DNA banks, microbial cultures, wildlife disease biobanks) and is one of the Department of Science & Innovation's research infrastructure roadmap funded projects hosted by SANBI.This position requires a postgraduate degree in Life Sciences (including plant / animal sciences, microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology) at NQF level 8. A relevant postgraduate qualification at NQF level 9 and above will be an added advantage. This position also requires a minimum of 10 years of demonstrable work experience in a relevant field, 5 years of which should be at middle management level. The successful candidate will be required to acquire a Senior Management Service Pre-entry Certificate offered by National School of Government, before assumption of duty.The following competencies are critical for the candidate to be successful in this position: knowledge of biodiversity biobank management; research expertise related to biobanking, biotechnology, molecular biology; experience in the implementation of multi-institutional projects; experience in engaging with various stakeholders and a track record of building and managing stakeholder relationships; strong leadership capabilities and management skills; professional writing and editing skills; strong project management skills; proven ability to think strategically and to solve complex problems; ability to work effectively both independently and as a team member; strong interpersonal skills; excellent communication skills (both verbal and written); computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (MS Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook). The possession of a valid driver's license and willingness to travel is essential.Key responsibilities will include:

• Provide leadership and direction for the development of future strategies and Business Plans for the BBSA;
• Provide leadership and management to ensure achievement of current contractual targets, including biobank standards development and implementation across the network, strategic expansion of biobanks, capacity development, outreach and communication, promoting use of biobank holdings for research and development;
• Report to governance structures on progress, challenges and expenditure;
• Involvement in relevant national and international initiatives, projects and structures;
• Undertake relevant, collaborative research; and
• Ensure proper governance, effective risk management and compliance to applicable legislation.

Application procedure1) An 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 skills test, competency assessment, qualifications and criminal record checks will be conducted as part of the selection process.3) Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of at least three referees.4) Failure to submit the requested information and reference number may 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 authorised 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.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.Applications consisting of the completed , motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via an e-mail toEnquiries:
Mr Maano Netshiombo
Cell: 082 453 0497
Tel.: (+27) 12 843 5295

SANBI