Director: Projects - Research and Innovation

UWC Sport; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of the Western Cape is seeking a Director for Projects in Research and Innovation. This role involves leading strategic research initiatives, managing resources, and fostering partnerships to translate research outputs into societal benefits. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD and have extensive experience in higher education management.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of relevant experience in higher education.
• At least 5 years of management experience.
• Knowledge of governance structures and policies.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for strategic research initiatives.
• Manage grants and funding strategies.
• Develop policies to foster research excellence.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Policy development

Financial planning

Education

PhD Degree at NQF level 10

Job description

Title of Position

Director: Projects - Research and Innovation

Post Number

8020815 (ITS: SE09)

Faculty/Department

University of the Western Cape -> Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research & Innovation

Type of Position

Permanent - Full Time

Length of Contract Period

Location

Main Campus - Bellville, WC ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

15/6/2025

Role Clarification & Key Performance Areas
The University of the Western Cape (UWC)’s Office of the DVC: Research and Innovation is seeking a qualified individual with a passion for research and innovation. The role involves leading efforts to translate university-based research outputs into social and economic markets.

Reporting to the DVC: Research & Innovation, the Director: Projects - Research and Innovation provides strategic leadership for research initiatives, overseeing governance and implementation of programmes across the university.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for strategic research initiatives and projects.
• Align research and innovation strategies with UWC’s broader institutional goals.
• Identify opportunities and respond to emerging research challenges.
• Manage grants, funding strategies, and resource allocation.
• Develop sustainable funding models for research.
• Coordinate communication and partnerships with stakeholders.
• Represent the office in university-wide and external forums.
• Identify and address gaps in research advocacy and governance frameworks.
• Develop policies to foster research excellence.

Minimum Requirements

• PhD Degree at NQF level 10.
• 5-7 years of relevant experience.
• At least 5 years of management experience in higher education.
• Knowledge of governance structures and policies in higher education.
• Experience in managing research projects and teams.

Required Competencies

• Effective interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work with researchers, industry, and external partners.
• Strong programme and project management skills.
• Proficiency in policy development and implementation.
• Leadership and research track record in academia.
• Financial planning and management skills.
• Ability to work independently under pressure and handle multiple projects.

Applicants are encouraged to highlight their strengths, include a cover letter, CV with referees, and highest qualification. The university may share application materials with relevant stakeholders and reserves the right to make no appointment or conduct additional assessments.