Are you passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, and working with students and faculty to develop cutting-edge ideas? The Wits Innovation Centre is looking for a dedicated Innovation Development Officer to join their team. If you have experience in the innovation sector and a keen interest in fostering creative problem-solving, this opportunity could be perfect for you.
Innovation Development Officer Job Overview
- Job Title: Innovation Development Officer (AD07)
- Location: Wits Innovation Centre, University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Organization Name: Wits Innovation Centre
About the Wits Innovation Centre
The Wits Innovation Centre is at the forefront of driving innovation at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). The centre plays a crucial role in creating an ecosystem that supports groundbreaking research, fosters entrepreneurship, and develops practical solutions for real-world challenges.
As part of its mission, the centre supports students, academics, and industry professionals in taking their innovative ideas from concept to commercialization. The Innovation Development Officer will be a key player in achieving these goals.
About the Innovation Development Officer Role
The main focus of this role is to drive innovation development at Wits. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering lectures, creating innovation-based courses and programs, organizing events, evaluating new ideas, and supporting entrepreneurial initiatives.
This role requires someone with strong communication skills, the ability to work with both faculty and students, and a passion for fostering a culture of innovation within the university.
Key Responsibilities
As an Innovation Development Officer, you will be responsible for:
- Engaging with Faculty – Regularly communicating with faculty members to keep them informed about the activities and developments at the Wits Innovation Centre.
- Supporting Innovation Projects – Working closely with faculty and students on their innovative ideas, helping them refine and develop their projects.
- Coordinating Courses and Workshops – Designing and delivering innovation-related lectures, workshops, events, and webinars (including online programs).
- Organizing Innovation Events – Managing events, programs, and discussions that promote creativity and innovation at the university.
- Fundraising for Innovation Initiatives – Assisting in securing funding and building relationships with potential investors and industry partners to support Wits Innovation Centre activities.
- Assessing and Evaluating Innovations – Analyzing innovation projects within the university ecosystem to determine their potential for commercialization or further development.
- Measuring Innovation Impact – Developing and maintaining metrics to assess the effectiveness and growth of the innovation ecosystem at Wits.
- Managing Administrative Tasks – Supporting the administration of existing and new innovation programs, ensuring they run smoothly.
- Building Partnerships – Strengthening relationships between Wits, industry partners, academic institutions, and other stakeholders.
- General Innovation Management – Handling day-to-day tasks related to innovation development and ensuring that Wits remains a leader in innovation.
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Requirements
To be considered for this position, you should meet the following criteria:
- Education: A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required.
- Experience: You must have prior experience in an innovation-related field or an entrepreneurial role in the industry.
- Essential Skills:
- Strong soft skills (effective communication, teamwork, and leadership).
- Solid project management skills to handle multiple initiatives.
- Proficiency in ICT tools such as Outlook, Office Suite, databases, and internet browsers.
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Initiative and self-confidence to lead innovation projects.
- Excellent time management skills.
- Background in entrepreneurship or innovation-related work.
If you are passionate about creating and managing innovation programs, this role offers the perfect platform to make a meaningful impact.
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Application Process
If you’re interested in applying for the Innovation Development Officer position, follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Application
- Write a covering letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this role.
- Include a detailed CV with your qualifications and relevant experience.
- Provide three references (with names and email addresses).
- Attach certified copies of your degrees and diplomas.
- Submit Your Application
- External applicants must apply through the Wits i-recruitment platform at https://irec.wits.ac.za.
- Internal employees should apply via iWits/Self Service application/Apply for a job.
Note: No hardcopy or email applications will be accepted.
- Closing Date
- The deadline for applications is 21 March 2025.
- Selection Process
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further interviews.
Privacy Notice
By submitting your application, you agree to the processing of your personal information as per Wits University’s Recruitment, Selection, and Appointment Policy. The university ensures the confidentiality of all applicants’ details.
For informal inquiries, you can contact Dr. Adam Pantanowitz at Adam.Pantanowitz@wits.ac.za.
