Director: Innovation and Contracts (post level 5) (Contract appointment: five years, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term) (Job ID 6216) – (1903)
The Director: Innovation and Contracts will lead the strategic vision and operational execution of innovation, commercialisation, and incubation initiatives at UFS. This role oversees the Technology Transfer Office, business incubation programmes, intellectual property management, and contract negotiations—aligning all activities with national innovation priorities and institutional goals. The incumbent will be responsible for securing sustainable funding, building industry partnerships, scaling research commercialisation, and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship within the university.
Job Overview:
- Job Title: Director: Innovation and Contracts (Post Level 5)
- Contract: Five-year contract, renewable for another term
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, University of the Free State
- Closing Date: 27 August 2025
Company Overview:
The University of the Free State (UFS) is a leading South African higher education institution committed to academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. With a strong focus on fostering diversity and transformation, UFS plays a pivotal role in advancing knowledge that addresses both local and global challenges. The university’s Research Development division drives cutting-edge research, strengthens partnerships, and translates innovations into impactful solutions that benefit society.
Key Responsibilities:
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Develop and execute the university’s innovation, commercialisation, and incubation strategy.
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Lead the Technology Transfer Office, including IP governance, licensing, and spinout development.
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Oversee the business incubator, enabling start-ups and spin-outs to access funding and markets.
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Drive sustainable financial strategies and third-stream income generation.
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Negotiate complex contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.
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Build partnerships with industry leaders, funders, and innovation networks locally and internationally.
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Represent UFS in conferences, government forums, and sector events.
Inherent Requirements:
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Professional Bachelor’s/Honours/Postgraduate Diploma (NQF Level 8).
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Chartered Accountant (SA).
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At least five years’ senior-level experience in financial and innovation management, ideally in research-intensive institutions or commercialisation platforms.
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Expertise in research funding models, IP management, contract negotiation, and revenue generation.
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Proven track record in strategic planning, risk management, and compliance in innovation contexts.
Recommendations:
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Eight or more years in executive financial leadership, innovation governance, or research commercialisation.
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Advanced MS Excel skills (financial modelling, dashboards, scenario analysis).
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Strong knowledge of the technology transfer lifecycle and relevant legislation (IPR Act, Companies Act, Higher Education Act).
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Experience in business incubation, venture creation, and investor engagement.
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Ability to lead cross-functional teams and work across academic and industry environments.
Benefits:
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Pension, medical aid, group life insurance, housing allowance, service bonus, leave benefits, and study benefits (subject to conditions).
Application Process:
Apply online via the UFS vacancy portal: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Applications must include:
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Detailed CV
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Certified copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation if foreign)
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Copy of ID/passport
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Confirmation of employment for external applicants
Click here to APPLY.
Also see: Journal Administrator UFS Bloemfontein Campus, Free State