The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated, professional and responsible person to lead the strategic program on our flagship ecological infrastructure, Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs), ensuring coherence, continuity, and collaboration across multiple stakeholders with a particular focus on municipalities.

This position requires a degree in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, qualification at NQF 7. A management postgraduate qualification at NQF 8, will be an added advantage. This position also requires 8 years of work experience in the relevant field, 4 years of which should be in first line management position(s).

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: Experience working in the fields of ecological infrastructure and/or natural resource management and/or biodiversity conservation; Technical leadership on biodiversity mainstreaming and policy advice across various strategic sectors; Working experience of biodiversity mainstreaming into local government; Understanding of how to work with and into communities of practice especially at catchment scale; understanding of national and global biodiversity conservation policies and frameworks; project management skills; knowledge of compliance and risk management; effective people management; proven ability to work with diverse teams, ability to develop partnerships and manage stakeholders and relationships, ability to effectively work under pressure, and effective financial and budget management skills; advanced planning, organizing, and problem solving skills; excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (GIS, Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook) is essential. Knowledge and understanding of spatial and other knowledge products that underpin work on SWSAs. The possession of a valid driver’s licence (minimum B) with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential. SACNASP registration advantageous.

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

• Lead and coordinate SANBI’s Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) programme;

• Provide technical leadership and foster collaboration and continuity to secure SWSAs;

• Manage and support project development and implementation;

• Provide policy advice and mainstream SWSAs into municipal planning and policy; and

• Facilitate Human Capital Development and professional development.