University Executive Director - Research Development Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor : [...]

DPT Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution is seeking an Executive Director of Research Development. This role involves overseeing the Research Development and Support Division, promoting innovation, and ensuring compliance with ethical standards. The ideal candidate will have a PhD and a minimum of 10 years of senior executive experience in higher education, along with demonstrated leadership and strategic acumen.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years executive experience in higher education or research institutions.
• Proven leadership capabilities and strategic acumen.
• Strong understanding of the global and national research and innovation landscape.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of the Research Development and Support Division.
• Manage sub-divisions: Strategic Research Support, Research Administration.
• Promote innovation, excellence, and commercialization of research outputs.
• Facilitate technology transfer and external funding strategies.

Skills

Leadership capabilities

Strategic acumen

Financial management

Understanding of research landscape

Education

PhD / Doctoral Degree (NQF Level 10)

Job description

SUMMARY :

University Executive Director - Research Development Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor : Research and Innovation

POSITION INFO :

University Executive Director - Research Development Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor : Research and Innovation

Job Title

Executive Director : Research and Development PhD

5-Year Contract, Renewable Subject to Performance)

Position Overview

The Executive Director : Research Development and Support is a key member of the Tertiary Institution''s Executive Leadership Group. Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor : Research and Innovation, this role provides strategic, operational, and administrative leadership to the Research Development and Support Division.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of the Research Development and Support Division.
• Manage sub-divisions : Strategic Research Support, Research Administration, Research Intelligence, and Technology Transfer Office.
• Promote innovation, excellence, and commercialization of research outputs.
• Facilitate technology transfer, entrepreneurial initiatives, and external funding strategies.
• Strengthen internal and external collaborations with academic faculties, research centres, government entities, and international partners.
• Uphold ethical research standards and ensure compliance with grant and budgetary guidelines.
• Develop strategic programs supporting institutional transformation and sustainability.

Minimum Requirements

A PhD / Doctoral Degree (NQF Level 10)

Minimum 10 years senior executive experience in higher education or research institutions

Proven leadership capabilities and strategic acumen

Strong understanding of the global and national research and innovation landscape

Demonstrated excellence in financial management and team leadership

Recommendations

Professional registration with an appropriate South African or international statutory body

Experience in strategic-level university or equivalent organizational leadership