Research & Innovation Manager

Description:

Potatoes SA, 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.

Potatoes SA, situated at its Head Office in Pretoria, seeks to appoint an experienced and dynamic person to the RESEARCH & INNOVATION MANAGER position.

The Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the Ideal Candidate is:

• Se t Strategic Direction
  Oversee the development and implementation of the organisation’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 organisation’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:

• Se t Strategic Direction
  Oversee the development and implementation of the organisation’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 organisation’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.

• Agro-Scientific Research & Innovation: 8 to 9 years
• Technology Integration In Agriculture: 5 to 6 years
• Policy Development & Sectoral Stakeholder Alignment: 4 to 5 years

• 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.
• 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 organisation, and the broader agricultural industry.

The Ideal Candidate will Meet the Following 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.
• 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 organisation, and the broader agricultural industry.

Salary packages are offered on a Total Cost to Employer (TCOE) basis, inclusive of all benefits.