Managing Director: Space Operations - SANSA

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has a mandate, as outlined in the South African National Space Agency Act, 2008 (Act No 36 of 2008), to co-ordinate and integrate national space science and technology programmes

Job Description
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has a mandate, as outlined in the South African National Space Agency Act, 2008 (Act No 36 of 2008), to co-ordinate and integrate national space science and technology programmes and conduct long-term planning and implementation of space-related activities in South Africa, for the benefit of the citizens of South Africa.
This newly established entity has the following vacancies, to be filled by enthusiastic, hardworking South African citizens with the relevant skills and qualifications.

Managing Director:
Space Operations Hartebeeshoek, Gauteng

Reporting to the CEO, the Managing Director: Space Operations will be responsible for planning, directing and co-ordinating all of the operations of SANSA Space Operations Directorate. The successful candidate will assume overall accountability for the management of the earth observations and space operations activities of the Directorate and ensure that it is appropriately positioned on a sustainable basis to deliver strategic programmes for the benefit of the sectors, markets and communities that it serves. Providing space-based societal benefits and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of information are key focus areas.

The ideal candidate: * Has at least a Master's degree in a relevant science, engineering or business management field * Possesses 5-10 years' experience in a senior management position or appropriate management qualifications * Understands SANSA's legislative and strategic mandates and has the passion to carry these through * Understands the national priorities of South Africa and has the ability to align with these * Is knowledgeable on the Space Science and Technology sector and Space Strategy of South Africa * Has a demonstrated ability to participate in cross-functional planning, co-ordination and task execution situations * Has good management and leadership skills in a transformational environment * Has good communication, interpersonal and excellent networking and relationship-building skills, both internally and external to SANSA * Is flexible and forward-looking.

Background verification, including criminal record, credit checks, security clearances, qualification and citizenship checks, as well as competency assessment and psychometric testing, will form part of the selection process.

SANSA subscribes to the principles of Employment Equity, including welcoming applications from all persons with disabilities. Preference will be given to candidates in accordance with this.
Should you meet the above requirements, please e-mail your detailed CV (indicating clearly the position you are interested in), to jobs@sansa.org.za Closing date: 16 March 2011.
Communication will only be conducted with short-listed candidates. If applicants have not heard from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, they must assume that their applications were unsuccessful. SANSA reserves the right not to fill a position.