Deputy Director: Project and Proposal Development
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Cape Town, Western Cape
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Posted 29 August 2025 - Closing Date 12 September 2025

Job Details

Job Description

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary of R1 059 105.00

3 year fixed-term contract of employment (renewable depending on funding availability)

Pretoria/Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Adaptation Policy and Resourcing Division

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated and professional individual to develop, manage, coordinate, and facilitate SANBI’s Green Climate Fund project pipeline in partnership with the climate change adaptation sector.

This position requires a degree in Natural Sciences, Life Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or equivalent qualification with NQF 7. Postgraduate qualification or equivalent and relevant qualification at NQF 8 will be an added advantage. This position also requires 8 years’ experience in the relevant field, 4 years of which should be in the first line management position(s).

The following competencies are required for the candidate to be successful in this position: extensive knowledge and understanding Theory of Change and Logical Framework methodologies, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning; strong leadership capabilities and management skills; strong writing and communication skills, and a track record of professional writing/editing skills; strong project management skills, and ability to successfully support and manage concurrent grant proposal processes; ability to manage high pressure and juggling with multiple stakeholders each with their own challenges whilst multi skilling across multi projects simultaneously; excellent verbal and interpersonal skills, and ability to interact effectively with diverse audiences; ability to work effectively and persuasively with individuals of authority; proven ability to think strategically, analyse information logically, and exercise sound judgement; ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team, the candidate must be flexible and reliable and be a clear-thinker who is able to solve problems and see all sides of a situation; extensive knowledge and experience in working with legislation, policies, procedures, processes, practices, systems, and frameworks related project proposal development, funding, stakeholders, and clients; excellent computer literacy and experience in the application of software tools including (Ms Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet and Outlook). The possession of a valid driver’s licence with at least one-year practical driving experience and a willingness to travel is essential. 

Key Performance Responsibilities include:

  • Provide leadership for SANBI’s Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Adaptation Fund (AF) project pipeline process;
  • Develop the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Adaptation Fund (AF) project proposal pipeline including concept note and full proposal development;
  • Lead Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning activities; and
  • Undertake project management activities.

Financial support from the Government of Flanders is grateful acknowledged

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Please Note: 1) Only online applications will be accepted and applications must be accompanied by a CV together with a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for this position, and certified qualifications confirming that the minimum qualifications are met (applicants lacking evidence of meeting minimum qualifications and relevant experience will not be considered). 2) A competency 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 shall result in your application not being considered.

Personal Information will be processed by SANBI for purposes of assessing your suitability for the advertised position. SANBI may also share your personal information including special personal information with service providers or third parties, both within the Republic of South Africa and in other jurisdictions, to carry out verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, background and reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. In this regard, by virtue of your application, you acknowledge that SANBI’s authorised verification agent(s) and service providers will access your personal information including special personal information to conduct background screening, verification of qualifications and other necessary documents, reference checks, competency assessment tests, and criminal record checks. For more information, kindly refer to SANBI’s website.

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 be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Contact Ms G Webb on Tel: +27 (0)21 799 8635/8800 for any queries for purposes of clarity. Applications consisting of the completed application form, motivation letter, a concise CV, and certified qualifications are to be submitted via the online portal.