About the position
Postion Summary:
The NRF seeks a visionary leader to serve as Manager: Stakeholder Management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Establishing and maintaining strong, positive relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, partners, government agencies, and community groups for the NRF
- Developing and implementing effective communication plans to ensure stakeholders are informed and engaged
- Developing and implement frameworks for assessing the impact of the NRF's partnership programmes
- Coordinating the NRF stakeholder engagements and initiatives, ensuring they meet objectives and deliver value
- Developing and aligning partner impact goals with the organization's mission and objectives
- Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategies and plans
- Aligning engagement activities with the organization’s strategic objectives and goals
- Conceptualising and drafting Directorate- and organisation-specific strategic documentsActively participating in the performance monitoring and evaluation of funding resources and programme fundsManaging contract performance in accordance with relevant specifications and objectivesAdvocating for policies that support and enhance the impact of scientific research on society
- Collaborating with policymakers to influence the development of science and research-related policies
- Leading and managing stakeholder engagement projects and initiatives from inception to completion
- Preparing detailed reports on stakeholder engagement activities and outcomes
Minimum Qualification:
Minimum Experience:
- A Master’s degree (PhD or MBA preferred) with a research background
Experience:
- At least 10 years of experience in stakeholder management or partnership development
- Experience working in a matrix environment will be an added advantage
- Proficiency in data management and reporting
- Extensive experience working within African higher education and research ecosystems
- Familiarity with the DSTI Decadal Plan
- Proven track record of developing and implementing successful stakeholder engagement strategies
- Proven record to successfully conceptualise and develop proposals
Knowledge:
- In-depth knowledge of national and international research funding landscapes
- A solid understanding and knowledge of the African, and South African, research development policy and strategy landscape
- Comprehensive understanding of African higher education and National Systems of Innovation Skills & CompetenciesLeadership and strategic planning expertise
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a track record of engaging diverse stakeholders
- Strong project management and
- Strong project management, problem-solving skills, organizational skills and financial acumen
- Collaborative working style, particularly in multi-institutional and multicultural settings
The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant·s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Desired Skills:
- Skilled in applied field of position
- Knowledge to be relevant
- Responsible in performing duties
About The Employer:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) is established by an Act of Parliament and mandated to contribute to national development by supporting, promoting and advancing research and human capacity development, through funding and the provision of the necessary research infrastructure, in order to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including humanities, social sciences and indigenous knowledge; and supporting and promoting public awareness of, and engagement with science. The NRF is a well-established organisation that is highly networked within the National Science System, and internationally. It is the principal organisation responsible for the promotion of the national research enterprise and is the primary public funder of postgraduate students and researchers as well as a provider of research infrastructure in the country. It has well-developed, best practice research evaluation, grant funding and support systems.
