Operations Manager

The purpose of the position is provide a high level support to enable the Director and the researchers working in the unit to be able to concentrate on their research. At present the operational load is high due to project-oriented environment and many more operational tasks cannot be carried out by the existing administrative assistant

Minimum requirements and qualities:

• A university degree related to either science/engineering, business administration or management.

• Five years of management experience.

• Knowledge and experience in organisational effectiveness and operations management, preferably in a research environment.

• Knowledge of business and management principles and practices.

• Knowledge of financial and accounting principles and practices.

• Knowledge of human resources principles and practices.

• Strong information technology skills.

• Outstanding communication, planning and organisational skills.

• Excellent work ethic, integrity, independence.

Job Specification

General Description:

MuST is a project-oriented research group consisting of engineers and scientists involved in speech technology and pattern recognition research.  A research niche area of NWU, MuST collaborates widely, working with partners and clients from industry, government and NGOs, both locally and internationally.

The goal of the MuST operations manager is to ensure that MuST functions smoothly, creating an environment that is conducive towards producing world-class research and researchers. The manager is responsible for ensuring and improving the performance of the research niche area, through planning and coordinating the operational aspects of the group, as well as directly implementing agreed operational aspects.

Responsibilities:

MuST is a small research group, but activities are varied and the team set-up is dynamic. Operational support therefore encompasses a wide range of responsibilities.

• Coordination and Communication – Facilitate coordination and communication internally to the research group, and act as an interface with the broader NWU on operational matters.

• Human Resources – Plan and implement strategies supporting the growth, productivity and professional well-being of group members. Facilitate and manage key HR processes, including recruitment, appointments and induction, career development and performance management. Provide creative opportunities for team building. Support a range of roles, from junior students to senior researchers.

• Financial – Plan, implement and monitor effective strategies for the financial well-being of the unit, including controlling the operational budget, overseeing financial administration, monitoring monthly reporting as well as annual analysis and planning.

• Project management and administration – Act as project manager on identified projects, providing operational support to technical teams, and taking joint responsibility for delivering according to project goals. Planned on a per project basis, responsibilities could include: assistance with proposal development, coordinating contributors, interacting with legal and financial services, project reporting, stakeholder liaison and contract management.

• Facilities and support services – Oversee and manage operational aspects of the physical and IT infrastructure required by the group. Ensure that the required resources are available, and related risks managed. Facilitate coordination and communication with support functions.

• Group profile – Cultivate the group’s profile, including its Internet presence and external reporting. Co-ordinate visitors, workshops, and meetings. Represent the group where applicable.

• Research administration – Oversee the research administration process, with a specific emphasis on student and research output administration.

• Best practices – Improve processes and procedures in support of group goals. Monitor adherence to regulations and policies as required by both NWU and project sponsors. Interact with legal services during proposal development and contracting.

• Strategic input – Assist in the development of strategic plans for the group, both short- and long-term, and implement and manage operational plans.

Enquiries: Prof. MH Davel, 028 312 1907 or Archie Mooi, 016 910 3092