About the position
Introduction
Mintek seeks to appoint an experienced leader who can shape the way the organisation manages, develops and grows its research and innovation enterprise. Reporting to the Executive Manager: RDI Operational Services, the Head: R&D Management will work with technical and functional leaders to strengthen research capability, optimise the R&D portfolio, build strategic partnerships and position Mintek for sustained research impact.
Duties & Responsibilities
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
R&D Strategy and Portfolio Management:
- Lead the development and implementation of an integrated R&D management strategy aligned to Mintek's strategic priorities.
- Translate strategic priorities into practical frameworks, governance mechanisms and measurable outcomes.
- Establish and continuously improve policies, systems, processes and tools that enable effective and efficient management of the R&D portfolio.
Research Capacity and Infrastructure:
- Provide strategic leadership in strengthening research capacity across Science, Engineering, & Technology (SET) Human Capital Programmes.
- Provide strategic direction for the development and effective utilisation of world-class research infrastructure and research environments.
- Ensure that research information assets, physical and virtual environments, and supporting capabilities enable high-quality research and innovation.
Research Excellence and Integrity:
- Champion a culture of research excellence, integrity and accountability across the organisation.
- Ensure that research management practices support both institutional priorities and recognised standards of research excellence and integrity.
Strategic Partnerships:
- Build relationships across government, academia, industry and other relevant research and innovation stakeholders.
- Work closely with technical division leadership to identify and pursue opportunities that enhance Mintek's visibility, networks and influence.
Financial Sustainability:
- Contribute to strategies that grow and diversify Mintek's revenue base to support sustainable investment in R&D and research infrastructure.
- Provide strategic leadership and support in the negotiation and management of significant enterprise-level R&D funding grants.
Desired Experience & Qualification
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum - Masters in Science or Engineering related field.
- Ideal - PhD in a Science or Engineering related field.
- Minimum 8 - 10 years' experience in a research or knowledge-based organisation; a proven track record of atleast five (5) years in R&D management; management and execution of research projects, incubating new initiatives, and conceptualising R&D policies.
- Experience in financial, HR, risk management, and R&D management processes.
- Strong leadership, stakeholder management, negotiation and communication capabilities.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Sound understanding of the national and international R&D funding landscape.
- R&D contract negotiations.
