Industry and Environment (Biotechnology), Pretoria

Purpose of the Role To support research, development and innovation in biological processes for the production of goods and services, while advancing water and wastewater management practices that contribute to a sustainable and green economy.

Key Responsibilities

Development of Industrial and Environmental Bioeconomy Sectors (25%)

Conceptualise, draft and support implementation of research, development and innovation instruments.

Promote awareness and public understanding of the bioeconomy through workshops, conferences, publications and stakeholder engagements.

Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders across industry, academia, government and related agencies.

Contribute to the development of business cases, investment concepts and governance frameworks supporting sector implementation.

Outputs

Approved policy and implementation documents

Stakeholder engagement reports and published content

Documented meeting outcomes and approved concept proposals

Translation of RDI Outputs into Economic Value (25%)

Facilitate investment into key thematic areas such as bio-products, bio-based chemicals, biomaterials, bioenergy and bioremediation.

Design and implement business development initiatives that support commercialisation of innovation.

Manage contracts and projects linked to investment instruments and partnerships.

Outputs

Increased funding and investment into priority sectors

Established partnerships and implemented initiatives

Quarterly project and contract performance reportsOperational and Strategic Planning Support (20%)

Contribute to the development of operational plans, annual performance plans and five-year strategic plans.

Monitor, evaluate and report on performance against set targets.

Outputs

Approved planning documents

Performance reports submitted on time

Achievement of operational and strategic targets

Strategic International Collaboration (15%)

Identify and engage with local and international stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in the bioeconomy.

Prepare technical documentation, briefing notes and reports for international engagements.

Outputs

Facilitated partnerships and stakeholder engagements

Approved reports and documentation for international platforms

Strategic Advisory and Administrative Support (15%)

Provide expert input on industrial and environmental biotechnology matters.

Prepare submissions, briefing notes, cabinet memoranda and related documentation.

Outputs

Timely and high-quality advisory support

Effective administrative coordination and documentation

Competency Requirements Knowledge

Policy development and public sector frameworks

National science and innovation systems

Industrial and environmental biotechnology sectors

Innovation value chains within the bioeconomy

Public finance and regulatory frameworks

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication

Strategic planning and organisational ability

Problem-solving and analytical thinking

Project and contract management

Policy analysis and interpretation

Negotiation and stakeholder management

Personal Attributes

Strong attention to detail

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Innovative and solution-oriented mindset

Professional diplomacy and interpersonal effectiveness

High levels of energy and initiative

Experience

Minimum of 3 years' experience in the biotechnology or related industry sector

Qualifications

NQF Level 6 qualification in Life Sciences or Technology Management

A Bachelor's degree is advantageous

Desired Skills

Policy Analysis

Stakeholder Engagement

Desired Work Experience

2 to 5 years

Desired Qualification Level

Degree

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