Executive Lead, Research & Innovation Strategy

UWC Online - University of the Western Cape; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution located in Bellville seeks a Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research & Innovation. This role demands a leader with a strong academic background and experience in enhancing research profiles and strategies within higher education. Responsibilities include leading the research agenda, inspiring excellence, and establishing collaborations. Candidates should possess a Doctoral degree, substantial managerial experience, and a proven track record of research output and impact. Applications due by 18 January 2026.

Qualifications

• Ten-plus (10+) years of management experience in higher education.
• Five years’ experience in senior management or equivalent academic role.
• Minimum of 25 peer-reviewed research outputs.
• Demonstrated research impact, citations, and funding success.
• Supervised at least five Doctoral and ten Master’s graduates.

Responsibilities

• Lead University's research and innovation agenda.
• Inspire excellence in research strategy and policy.
• Collaborate with partners to enhance research profiles.
• Drive strategic direction aligned with institutional goals.

Skills

Exceptional research track record

Leadership in dynamic research environments

Strategic leadership acumen

Knowledge of global trends

Interpersonal relationship building

Financial and human resource management

People-management skills

Effective communication skills

Facilitation of institutional transformation

Education

Doctoral degree eligible for Professor level

Job description

A prominent educational institution located in Bellville seeks a Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research & Innovation. This role demands a leader with a strong academic background and experience in enhancing research profiles and strategies within higher education. Responsibilities include leading the research agenda, inspiring excellence, and establishing collaborations. Candidates should possess a Doctoral degree, substantial managerial experience, and a proven track record of research output and impact. Applications due by 18 January 2026.