Research & Innovation Manager

Potatoes South Africa; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 80 000 - 120 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural organization in South Africa is looking for a Research & Innovation Manager. The role involves overseeing research initiatives, managing projects, and collaborating with various stakeholders. Candidates should have extensive experience in agriculture, particularly in potato production systems, and strong project management skills. A market-related remuneration package will be offered.

Qualifications

• At least 10 years’ experience in the agricultural sector.
• 5+ years of direct exposure to potato production systems.
• Proven track record in agricultural research and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the development of the organization’s research agenda.
• Lead technical research projects and feasibility assessments.
• Manage project delivery within scope, time, and budget.

Skills

Project management

Agricultural research

Stakeholder engagement

Technical expertise

Financial planning

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in agriculture or biological sciences

Postgraduate degree

Job description

Potatoes SA (PSA), a non-profit company, was established to serve, protect, and promote the interests of the South African potato industry.

PSA offers various strategic services to producers and other role players, and to fulfil its role, it focuses on the following key areas: research & innovation, marketing, industry information, and transformation.

RESEARCH & INNOVATION MANAGER

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Set Strategic Direction: Oversee the development and implementation of the organization’s research and innovation agenda, aligned to the strategic objectives of Potatoes South Africa.
• Design & Execute Research Projects: Lead the design and execution of technical research projects, including trials, feasibility assessments, and knowledge generation to address producer challenges.
• Apply Project Management Principles: Manage research and innovation projects using sound project management methods, ensuring delivery within scope, time, and budget.
• Facilitate Technical Expertise & Funding: Engage with academic institutions, research bodies, government and funders to mobilise technical expertise and financial support.
• Strengthen Delivery Partnerships: Build strong networks with specialists and professionals to support the implementation of research priorities.
• Collaborate Internally: Work closely with internal teams to integrate research and innovation initiatives across the organization’s operations and services.
• Ensure Translation & Uptake: Ensure that research insights are translated into practical outcomes that enhance producer competitiveness, sustainability, and long-term sector transformation.

Requirements

A relevant tertiary qualification in agriculture, biological sciences, or a related field is required.

A postgraduate degree will be an added advantage.

At least 10 years’ experience in the agricultural sector, with a minimum of 5 years of direct exposure to potato production systems or related crop environments.

Proven track record in agricultural research and innovation, including designing or managing industry-relevant projects.

Demonstrated experience in leading or coordinating multi-stakeholder projects involving research institutions, funders, or technical partners.

Solid grounding in project management methodologies, with the ability to scope, implement, monitor, and report on technical projects across various disciplines.

Candidates who do not meet the formal qualification requirement but can demonstrate the necessary depth of sector experience, practical competence, and leadership capacity will also be considered.

A sound understanding of the regulatory, scientific, and operational frameworks influencing agricultural research, food systems, and environmental sustainability.

Must be willing and able to travel extensively across South Africa and occasionally abroad, as required.

Key Performance Areas

• Financial Perspective: Strategic project management, resource planning, research funding oversight.
• Leadership & Colleague: Innovation leadership, collaboration, cross-functional team engagement.
• Customer Perspective: Grower support, stakeholder communication, knowledge transfer compliance & Process: Research ethics, governance, reporting, sustainability initiatives.

Additional information

The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance.

The successful candidate will report to the Chief Executive Officer of Potatoes South Africa.

A market-related remuneration package will be offered to the preferred candidate.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to deliver a presentation during the interview process.

The presentation should reflect their interpretation of the role, as well as their vision to positively influence the position, the organization, and the broader agricultural industry.

Please ensure you attach the following documents: ID Document, Driver's License Copy, Highest Qualification Certificate, Professional References / Letters. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

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

PSA has the right not to appoint.

PSA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity.