Head: R&D Management
Listing reference: minte_000467
Listing status: Online
Apply by: 15 October 2026
Position summary
Industry: Scientific, Research & Development
Job category: Others: RandD, Science and Scientific Research
Location: Randburg
Contract: Permanent
Remuneration: Market Related
EE position: Yes
Introduction
Mintek seeks to appoint an experienced leader who can shape the way the organisation manages, develops and grows its research and innovation enterprise. Reporting to the Executive Manager: RDI Operational Services, the Head: R&D Management will work with technical and functional leaders to strengthen research capability, optimise the R&D portfolio, build strategic partnerships and position Mintek for sustained research impact.
Job description
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
R&D Strategy and Portfolio Management:
- Lead the development and implementation of an integrated R&D management strategy aligned to Mintek’s strategic priorities.
- Translate strategic priorities into practical frameworks, governance mechanisms and measurable outcomes.
- Establish and continuously improve policies, systems, processes and tools that enable effective and efficient management of the R&D portfolio.
Research Capacity and Infrastructure:
- Provide strategic leadership in strengthening research capacity across Science, Engineering, & Technology (SET) Human Capital Programmes.
- Provide strategic direction for the development and effective utilisation of world-class research infrastructure and research environments.
- Ensure that research information assets, physical and virtual environments, and supporting capabilities enable high-quality research and innovation.
Research Excellence and Integrity:
- Champion a culture of research excellence, integrity and accountability across the organisation.
- Ensure that research management practices support both institutional priorities and recognised standards of research excellence and integrity.
Strategic Partnerships:
- Build relationships across government, academia, industry and other relevant research and innovation stakeholders.
- Work closely with technical division leadership to identify and pursue opportunities that enhance Mintek's visibility, networks and influence.
Financial Sustainability:
- Contribute to strategies that grow and diversify Mintek's revenue base to support sustainable investment in R&D and research infrastructure.
- Provide strategic leadership and support in the negotiation and management of significant enterprise-level R&D funding grants.
Minimum requirements
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum - Masters in Science or Engineering related field.
- Ideal - PhD in a Science or Engineering related field.
- Minimum 8 - 10 years’ experience in a research or knowledge-based organisation; a proven track record of atleast five (5) years in R&D management; management and execution of research projects, incubating new initiatives, and conceptualising R&D policies.
- Experience in financial, HR, risk management, and R&D management processes.
- Strong leadership, stakeholder management, negotiation and communication capabilities.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Sound understanding of the national and international R&D funding landscape.
- R&D contract negotiations.