Deputy Director: Ecological Infrastructure

South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires an enthusiastic, responsible team player to co-ordinate SANBI’s programme of work on the integration of ecological infrastructure into agriculture and other priority sectors.

Requirements

Appointment requires a relevant post-graduate degree or equivalent qualification in the Natural, Social or Agricultural Sciences enhanced by 5 years relevant experience, of which at least 2 years should have been in a managerial capacity, in working through partnerships particularly in the public sector and communicating with a range of stakeholders. The incumbent must have thorough working knowledge of the principles of biodiversity planning and biodiversity mainstreaming, particularly into agriculture, combined with a general understanding of the concept of ecological infrastructure and its theoretical underpinnings. Knowledge and understanding of public sector policy processes and structures particularly in the environment and agricultural sectors is a further requirement. Furthermore, the ideal candidate must have expert knowledge of the main actors and legal and policy frameworks in the agricultural sector. The successful candidate must demonstrate excellent skills relating to planning and organising, development of norms and standards, compilation of management reports, reporting procedures, project planning and financial management.

Furthermore the suitable candidate must be in possession of a valid Code B driver’s license, as well as be willing to travel. The ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations and highly effective verbal and written communication capabilities are essential. Proficiency in MS Office is also a specific requirement for this post.

Key responsibilities

The appointee will be responsible for:

• Lead SANBI’s programme of work on mainstreaming biodiversity and ecological infrastructure into agriculture sector policies and plans.
• Establish, lead and coordinate a network of partners to support the mainstreaming of ecological infrastructure into agriculture.
• Coordinate ecological infrastructure pilot projects and make linkages to relevant national initiatives.
• Lead the integration of ecological infrastructure inputs into relevant national policies, plans and international biodiversity policy processes.
• Support applicable communities of learning and practice.

Benefits

SANBI offers an all-inclusive salary of R 569 538.00 per annum.

Read more about SANBI's remuneration and benefits.

Application

Apply online here

Please Note:

1. Applications must be accompanied by 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 competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
3. Applicants must also provide the full names, address and telephone number and if possible e-mail address of at least three referees.
4. Failure to submit the requested information may result in your application not being considered.

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 Mr Stephen Mahlangu on 012 843 5217 or email recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za if further information is required.

Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position. 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 assume that their applications were unsuccessful.

Please note that any emails sent to SANBI must be under 10MB in size.