EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NATURAL RESOURCES AND MATERIALS wanted at Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation

Company: Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation
Reference #:ED NRM – 2019
Contract Type:Contract 5 Years
Salary:Market Related
Location: Gaborone, South East, Botswana

Introduction
The Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI) is a science and technology research institute established by the Government of Botswana in 2012 as a parastatal under the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology to undertake research, identify and or develop appropriate technologies in line with national priorities and needs of Botswana.

Specification
Main Purpose of the Job:

•To lead, manage, direct, coordinate and supervise all research and development undertaken by BITRI in the area of Environment, Materials and Water.
•Create a conducive environment for the sector.
•Identify and manage resources for achieving set goals so as to meet required high quality standards.
•Promote and support cross-functional exchanges and operations within BITRI as well as other organisations.
•Drive organisational and cultural change in research.
• Ensure all policies, regulations and codes of ethics are cascaded down and adhered to in research and development.

Requirements
Education:

•A PhD in any Natural Sciences discipline or related.
•Professional qualification from a recognised institution or any other equivalent qualification acceptable to the Botswana Institute for Technology, Research and Innovation (BITRI).

Experience and working knowledge:

•At least 15 years of research post-qualification experience with proven knowledge in Environment, Materials and Water. The experience must include at least 3 years of executive managerial experience.
•Evidence of supervision of researchers is essential.
•Evidence of experience in the commercialisation of research is essential.
•Evidence of sourcing research funds is essential.
•Demonstrated publication record in international journals.
•Experience in conducting applied research would be an added advantage.
•Exposure to similar functions in a R&D environment would be an advantage.

Required Competencies
Technical competences
•Strong international perspective gained either through relevant working overseas or working for an internationally focused R&D and/or technology organisation in Botswana.
•Sound knowledge of current research trends in Environment, Material and Water
•A good appreciation of the positive impact of the research program on the lives of Batswana.
•Computer literate. Experience with systems and applications relevant to the specific work area.
•Programme management and development.
•Knowledge of R&D sector in Botswana (policies, strategies, legislations, regulations).
•Knowledge of R&D principles, practices, processes, methodologies etc.
•Excellent networks in relevant public and private sector organisations and international agencies in Botswana and beyond.

Other competences
•Creativity, innovation, flexibility and analytical thinking.
•Results oriented and performance driven.
•Decisiveness and assertiveness.
•Communication, influence, impact.
•Service oriented and client focus.
•Team building, leadership skills and motivation.
•People management and interpersonal skills.
•Planning, organising, budgeting, resource management.

Job Closing Date
06/12/2019