Job Description

Strategic Planning and Monitoring

Collaborate with executive leadership to define and refine the organisation's strategic direction. Analyse internal and external factors impacting the business landscape, identifying emerging opportunities and risks. Develop strategic plans, roadmaps, and frameworks to guide organisational growth and long-term success. Develop, implement and maintain policies for performance management that incorporate aspects of monitoring and evaluation. Ensure alignment of the ARC monitoring and evaluation objectives to that of various government policy frameworks and acceptable best practice standards/codes. Monitor and evaluate organisational performance, oversee performance reporting, and ensure alignment with strategic objectives. Lead and manage the strategy and planning team, providing guidance, support, and mentoring.

Market and Internal Performance Analysis

Conduct comprehensive market, industry, customer, and competitor analyses to inform strategic decision-making. Evaluate organisational performance, identifying areas for improvement and optimisation. Recommend strategic initiatives to drive revenue growth and enhance operational efficiency. Develop and utilise key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress towards strategic outcomes.

Strategy Implementation and Leadership

Support the CEO in implementing strategic plans and initiatives in line with the organisation's mission and goals. Oversee the execution of activities outlined in the organisational strategic plan, ensuring effective implementation.

Executive Support

Provide high-level support to the CEO in managing daily operations. Ensure seamless functioning of the Office of the CEO, facilitating organisational performance management and reporting.

Stakeholder Management

Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Collaborate with external research organisations to position the organisation as a leader in South Africa's national agricultural research system. Provide administrative leadership for partnershipsand collaborations with external stakeholders.

Communication and Reporting

Act as a key point of contact for communication between the CEO and various stakeholders. Prepare reports, presentations, and correspondence on behalf of the CEO.

Financial Management

Assist the CEO in financial planning, budgeting, and monitoring of financial performance. Ensure financial sustainability and efficiency through effective financial oversight.

Operational Oversight

Work with divisional heads to ensure alignment with organisational outcomes. Monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement operational strategies. Reporting and Presentation. Prepare and present reports, findings, and recommendations to senior leadership and key stakeholders. Develop performance dashboards and reports to track key metrics and inform decision-making.

Project Management

Manage and oversee key projects and initiatives, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope.

Strategic Support to the CEO

Provide direct support to the CEO in achieving key organisational strategic objectives. Identify and drive continuous business improvement initiatives aligned with strategic goals.


A PhD's Degree in Agriculture or Science. Postgraduate degree in Business Management /MBA/MBL will be an added advantage. 8 years of management experience, of which 5years should be at the Senior Management level. Ability to project or forecast future business trends and risks that could impact the organisation. Good insight into the operations of different business units within the organisation. Experience in the implementation of Strategic Management and associated methodologies.

Enquiries: Ms Lekanka Semenya, Email

: arcrecruitment@arc.agric.za

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 04 APRIL 2025

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 and preference will be given to designated groups 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.