Executive Manager : Corporate Support

The Agricultural Research Council; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent research organization in Pretoria is seeking an experienced leader for the Human Capital Management function. The role requires a relevant degree and significant management experience, particularly at the executive level. The ideal candidate will drive strategy development, oversee corporate governance, and manage a multidisciplinary team. A competitive remuneration package is offered, along with a commitment to equal opportunity employment.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration package

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years' management experience, including at least 5 at Senior or Executive Management level.
• Proven experience in HCM strategy and remuneration.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary corporate support teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the HCM function including strategy development and performance management.
• Advise the Executive Management Committee on governance and remuneration policies.
• Manage budgets and ensure operational efficiency.

Skills

Human Resources management

Strategic planning

Budget management

Change management

Employment equity compliance

Education

Relevant Degree (NQF 08)

Postgraduate qualification (Master's or PhD)

Job description

Responsibilities

• Lead the HCM function, including strategy development, remuneration, employee relations, employment equity, talent development, succession planning, and performance management.
• Provide strategic oversight of the Legal and Marketing functions to ensure regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and effective brand management.
• Advise and support the Executive Management Committee (EMC), Board, and Human Resources and Remuneration Committee (HRRC) on human capital matters, governance, and remuneration policies.
• Develop and implement corporate policies, programmes, and frameworks aligned with ARC's strategic objectives.
• Manage budgets, resources, and programmes within Corporate Support to ensure efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and accountability.
• Drive culture, transformation, and change initiatives that enhance organisational performance, innovation, and compliance.
• Serve as a member of the Senior Management Team, contributing strategic advice on corporate support functions and institutional priorities.
• Support operational excellence initiatives led by the Group Executive: Operations, ensuring integration, synergy, and alignment across shared services and corporate support functions.
• Handle internal conflicts and disputes within the organisation in a fair and constructive manner.
• Lead the institution's response to crises or emergencies, coordinating efforts to mitigate negative impacts.
• Uphold and promote ethical standards and values within the organisation, setting a positive example for all employees.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including governance structures, partners, and employees.

Qualifications

• Relevant Degree (NQF 08) in Human Resources, Business Administration, Law, Marketing, or related disciplines.
• Postgraduate qualification (Master's or PhD) will be advantageous.
• Minimum 8 years' management experience, including at least 5 years at Senior or Executive Management level.
• Proven experience in HCM strategy, remuneration, and employment equity (EE), preferably in a large or complex organisation.
• Experience working with Boards and Committees, particularly HRRC or similar governance structures.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary corporate support teams, including Legal, Marketing, HCM, or related functions.
• Experience in a scientific research, higher education, or public sector environment is advantageous.
• Experience in strategic planning, operational leadership, risk management, and compliance is advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, resources, and complex programmes effectively.

Benefits

• A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position.

Additional Information

The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance as well as competency and leadership assessments.

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan.

The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applicants must submit a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, a copy of driver's licence, and SAQA evaluation report for foreign qualifications.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Applicants who do not receive any response four weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful.

The company has the right not to appoint.

Enquiries: Tebogo Sethibe. Closing date for applications: 12 September.