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SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY INSTITUTE (SANBI)
 
GARDEN MANAGER: FREE STATE NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN
Location: Bloemfontein
Job type: Permanent
Salary package: R707 557.00 to R990 581.00
Reference Number: GFSG/2021/001
 
 
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) requires the services of a self-motivated, innovative, business focused and results-driven individual who will lead and direct a team in the efficient operational management of a nationally renowned National Botanical Garden.
 
Ensure the conservation and appreciation of the natural, cultural and historic values of the Botanical Garden through the development and implementation of strategic and operational plans and programs, consistent with statutory responsibilities and corporate policies.
 
The successful candidate must be in possession of a degree in Horticulture, Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or equivalent qualification at NQF 7 enhanced by business and leadership skills and must at least have 8 years’ working experience, 4 years of which should be in first line management or leadership position(s) as a practising Horticulturist in managing a nature based and tourism facility with sound and sustainable business principles.
 
 
The incumbent must be a strategic thinker and with experience in the supervision of staff and have good management, leadership, coordination, administrative and financial management.  The successful candidate will be expected to work out of normal working hours including Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays and be on standby duty.
 
The incumbent must demonstrate the ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations/communications with both internal and external stakeholders and have an excellent spoken and written command of English. The candidate must be proficient in MS Office as well as have a valid Code B/EB drivers’ license with at least (1) one year’s practical driving experience. Due to operational requirements the successful candidate will be expected to live in the allocated staff residence.
 
Key responsibilities:
  • Manage the development and maintenance operations of the National Botanical Garden, their living collections, associated estates, facilities and infrastructure;
  • Develop and maintain strategic partnerships;
  • Drive sound budget management, project management, income generation and marketing operations of the botanical gardens Ensure effective contract management;
  • Improve workplace health, safety and security;
  • Drive Human Capital Development and Transformation.
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Please Note:
1) An application form must accompany the CV together with a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position and confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of relevant experience will not be considered).
2) A competency assessment and skills test will be conducted as part of the selection process.
3) Applicants must also provide the full names, addresses and telephone numbers and if possible e-mail addresses of at least three referees.
4) Failure to submit the requested information and reference number may result in your application not being considered.
 
Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position. All applications will be considered with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.
 
Contact Mr Vusi Mncwango on (012) 843 5252 or preferably, or forward the completed application form, a letter and concise CV via e-mail to recruitmentpta@sanbi.org.za or fax (012) 843 5222. Postal applications are to be addressed to the Assistant Director: Human Resources, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Private Bag X101, Pretoria, 001.
 
Application form
 
Candidates are expected to be available for selection interviews on a date and time as determined by SANBI.  If no response has been received within 30 days of the closing date, candidates may consider their applications unsuccessful.
 
Closes: Friday, 12 March 2021