Technical Advisor: Board Technical Committee

Technology Innovation Agency; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Technology Innovation Agency in Pretoria seeks a Technical Advisor to support the Board Technical Committee with independent, objective advice on technology development and strategic initiatives aligned with TIA’s mandate.

The role focuses on evaluation of risks, technology trends, and potential for commercialisation within funded programmes. A 12-month fixed-term appointment is offered, with renewal at the Board’s discretion.

Qualifications

• At least ten years’ senior-level experience.
• Master’s degree in science, engineering, technology, innovation management, commercialisation or related field.
• Experience serving on a board, advisory panel, investment committee or equivalent governance structure.

Responsibilities

• Attend BTC meetings and provide independent technical advice on policy/strategic level in areas such as advanced technologies and digital transformation.
• Review committee documentation and provide technical commentary on matters referred to the BTC.
• Assess innovation potential, commercialisation readiness, scalability and market relevance.

Skills

Senior-level experience

Board governance exposure

Strategic advisory

Education

Master’s degree

Job description

Technical Advisor: Board Technical Committee

Closing Date 2026/10/06

Reference Number TIA260921-1

Job Title Technical Advisor: Board Technical Committee

Job Type Classification Contract

Location - Town / City Pretoria

Location - Province Gauteng

Location - Country South Africa

Job Advert Summary

TIA is a talent-driven, customer-centric and impact-focused organisation. In supporting technology innovation with socio-economic outcomes, we seek individuals who demonstrate strategic insight, integrity, agility, accountability and a commitment to value creation. TIA promotes employment equity in accordance with the Employment Equity Act, as amended, and reserves the right not to make an appointment.

To provide the Board Technical Committee (BTC) with independent, objective and specialist advice that strengthens its oversight and recommendations on technology development, innovation programmes, commercialisation pathways, research and development trends, technology risks, emerging technologies and strategic initiatives related to TIA’s mandate.

Duration of Contract: (12-months' fixed-term appointment, renewable at the discretion of the Board)

Qualification

• A master’s degree in science, engineering, technology, innovation management, commercialisation or a related field.

Work Experience

• At least ten years’ relevant senior-level experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in research, development and innovation, technology commercialisation or venture funding.
• Experience serving on a board, advisory panel, investment committee or an equivalent governance structure.
• Knowledge of systems thinking, policy development and advocacy, innovation theory and thought leadership.
• High ethical standards, professional integrity and the ability to provide independent advice.

Preferred Requirements

• A PhD in a relevant field.
• Senior executive experience or relevant business-school or scholarly experience.
• Experience in technology transfer, intellectual-property exploitation and the commercialisation of technology-based businesses.
• Knowledge of the South African National System of Innovation, public-sector governance, the PFMA and applicable Treasury requirements.
• Experience in innovation funding, venture capital, blended finance, strategic innovation programmes, portfolio management or investment due diligence.
• Strong background in policy and strategy development

Strategic thinking; systems thinking; technical judgement; commercial acumen; governance awareness; risk assessment; strategic foresight; stakeholder engagement; analytical report writing; verbal communication; independence; integrity; and sound decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Attend BTC meetings and provide independent technical advice on a policy / strategic level in areas such as advanced technologies, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and other strategic technology domains relevant to TIA’s mandate.
• Review committee documentation and provide technical commentary on matters referred to the BTC.
• Assess innovation potential, commercialisation readiness, scalability, market relevance and alignment with TIA’s mandate.
• Identify technology, commercialisation, innovation and portfolio risks, and recommend appropriate mitigation measures.
• Advise on emerging technologies, innovation ecosystems and industry developments.
• Undertake specialised reviews approved by the BTC Chairperson, including validation of technical assumptions and evaluation of research, development and strategic technology initiatives.
• Support sound, evidence-based recommendations through technical analysis, strategic foresight and relevant industry good practice.

Remuneration and Other Conditions

Remuneration will be determined in accordance with applicable Treasury requirements and TIA Board-approved remuneration principles. Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses may be reimbursed where approved and in accordance with TIA policies.

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Data privacy

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