The incumbent will be responsible for research, development and innovation operations management over the full Research Development and Innovation value chain within the organization to ensure that the organisation meets its strategic objectives in line with its mandate.

Key responsibilities:
• Develop and integrate the Research, Development and Innovation framework into the operating units’ strategic and operational plans;
• Facilitate and support the implementation of the annual strategic and operational planning process in the units including setting KPI targets in consultation with the Executive Director;
• Evaluate, jointly with the relevant managers and Executive Director, strategic and operational plans for the operation, sustainability and robustness of the various business areas;
• Design and model, with the operating units, integrated research, development and innovation solutions for industry;
• Ensure investment is done in line with organisational priorities by being a custodian of Parliamentary Grant investment processes within the R&D operations;
• Monitor and evaluate the organisation’s performance on research, development and innovation;
• Report and intervene to ensure that the units achieves its KPI targets and strategic objectives;
• Establish long-term relationships with stakeholders in support of the Research, Development and Innovation Strategy;
• Develop, implement and monitor, with the audit and unit teams, the risk management plan;
• Contribute to the unit’s strategy implementation and performance through facilitating or implementing major operational processes including approvals;
• Ensure process optimization for both effectiveness and efficiency within the unit and take corrective action if required i.e. procurement, contracting etc.
• Ensure the organization invest in R&D facilities and SET base that support Research, Development and Innovation strategy.

Qualifications, skills and experience:
• A Master’s degree in science or engineering with at least ten years’ experience in a research or knowledge based organisation, of which five years must be in project management, planning, resourcing and reporting;
• Well-developed management skills demonstrated at senior management level within R&D environment;
• Track record of effectiveness in developing new initiatives and programs;
• Excellent client relationship management and interpersonal skills;
• Proven ability to work in multi- functional teams.