(Salary Level 13)
(Reference Number: BAM/2019/002)

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a highly motivated individual to provide vision and leadership for its biodiversity assessment and monitoring functions, including the National Biodiversity Assessment, the assessment of biological invasions and the assessment of impacts of genetically modified organisms, all of which are carried out in partnership with other stakeholders in the sector. The appointment requires the candidate to be in possession of a post-graduate degree in a relevant aspect of biodiversity science enhanced by at least 10 years’ working experience, of which at least 5 years’ should be in middle management. Must be able to demonstrate skills and experience in leading and managing highly technical teams to deliver scientific products. Experience in managing biodiversity related projects, with cross disciplinary teams of scientists is essential. The position requires: • Excellent understanding of biodiversity assessment • Strong leadership and people management skills• Experience with developing and implementing strategy • Ability to develop and maintain partnerships • In-depth knowledge and understanding of the Biodiversity Act (2004) and other relevant legislation and policies • Good administration and financial management skills • Computer literacy with sound knowledge of and working experience in MS Office (Word, Excel and Power Point) • A Masters Degree or PhD in a Biodiversity-related field would be an added advantage • Good report-writing and communication skills and a valid unendorsed driver’s license.

Responsibilities include:

  • Lead and manage the directorate and its core strategic projects and programmes, such as the National Biodiversity Assessment (NBA), the National Monitoring Framework (NMF), and the assessment of biological invasions;
  • Strengthen the science base for biodiversity assessment;
  • Improve the financial sustainability of the Directorate through development of funding proposals;
  • Provide support for national regulations, intergovernmental organisations and multilateral environmental agreements through science-based policy advice;
  • Develop strategic partnerships to deliver on monitoring and assessment objectives;
  • Develop human capital and promote science outputs.

SANBI offers an all inclusive remuneration package ranging from R905 145.00 to R1 267 201.00

Please Note: 1) An application form (obtainable from our Offices or SANBI website www.sanbi.org must accompany the CV together with a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position and confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of relevant experience will not be considered). 2) A skills test will be conducted as part of the selection process. 3) Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible 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.

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 currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Ms Kaashiefa Bassier on (021) 799 8878/8800 or preferably, or forward the completed application form, a letter and concise CV via e-mail to recruitmentct@sanbi.org.za or fax 0865899569. Postal applications are to be addressed to the Deputy Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag X7, Claremont, 7735.

Closing Date: 15 November 2019

Candidates are expected to be available for selection interviews on a date and time as determined by SANBI. If no response has been received within 30 days of the closing date, candidates may consider their applications unsuccessful.

Download the printable job advert here.