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SMME and Incubation Manager

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is a premier science institution that conducts research with partners, develops human capital and fosters innovation in support of the agricultural sector. It provides diagnostic,
laboratory, analytical, agricultural engineering services, post-harvest technology development, agrochemical
evaluation, consultation and advisory services, food processing technology services, as well as various
surveys and training interventions. Through its wider network of research institutes and experimental farms,
the ARC provides a strong scientific base and a broadly distributed technology transfer capacity to the
entire agricultural industry in South Africa.
The ARC-Central Office (ARC-CO) seeks to appoint experienced and dynamic
persons to the following positions at Hatfield, Pretoria:

SMME and Incubation Manager
(3-year fixed-term contract)

Key performance areas: â€¢ Facilitate the initiation of new ARC-owned technology incubators • Facilitate and
coordinate support provided to existing ARC and non-ARC incubators • Provide leadership and guidance
regarding the management and initiation of incubators • Provide policy and strategic frameworks on technology
and SMME incubation • Initiate new SMMEs, and create new spin-outs from ARC Intellectual Property
• Lead due diligence on the suitability of ARC IP for incorporation into spin-outs • Lead the development
of market intelligence reports (opportunity assessment, barriers to entry, competitor analysis, pricing
structure, value chain development, market access) • Develop criteria for defining incubatable technologies
• Develop bankable business plans for opportunities identified (including pitching to investors for funding)
• Establish working relationships with local and international SMME funding bodies, including commercial
banks • Access CSI funds of private entities.

Requirements: â€¢ A Commercial degree and/or suitable minimum qualification of a Master’s degree
in Agricultural or Natural Sciences OR an equivalent combination of education and experience from
which comparable knowledge and abilities can be acquired • Working knowledge of the Department of
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) and its objectives • 2 years’ experience in patenting, licensing
and commercialising university technology or technology from the private sector or research institutions/
councils • Demonstrable evidence of new venture creation, eg spin-outs • Board of Directors experience
(governance) • Working knowledge of the ARC and its role in South Africa and globally • Experience in and
understanding of intellectual property and licensing legislation and processes will be an added advantage
• New venture creation and management • Computer literacy and proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite
• Good communication skills (written and verbal) • Strong negotiation skills • The ability to converse
technically and at a strategic level.
The closing date for applications is 20 September 2013.

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the
position. Appointments will be subject to a 6-month probation period (for permanent positions only) and a
positive security clearance.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (including certificates, a copy of Code 10
driver’s licence, supporting documents and nationality - NB: Non-RSA citizens/work permit holders
must attach certified copies), as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees,
should be forwarded to the contact mentioned at each division.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered

Applicants who do not receive any response from us within 4 weeks of the closing date must regard their
applications as unsuccessful.

The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer but is committed to the principles and
processes of Employment Equity. The company has the right not to appoint.
Further information on the ARC is available on the ARC website:
http://www.arc.agric.za