The University seeks to recruit applicants with requisite qualifications, skills and experience for the
following post in the Innovation and Business Development: –
DIRECTOR: INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER (1 POST)
The incumbent reports directly to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Innovation and Business Development (PVCIBD). The incumbent oversees the operations of the NUST Innovation Hub and is responsible for driving
its activities to capture and develop innovations from within the University Community as well as from
outside. The Innovation and Technology Transfer Directorate shall be the main link with Academic,
Industrial and Community research initiatives with a view of identifying research projects and innovations
that have potential for further development and commercialisation. The ultimate aim is to facilitate
generation of other revenue streams through harnessing and developing innovations into marketable
products and services.
The incumbent will coordinate academic Departments, private sector partners, and multi-disciplinary
Innovation Hub teams in developing and implementing product and service development initiatives; and
ensuring graduation of the same into successful business ventures. The successful applicant must possess
both technical and research expertise to guide activities involved in the identification and coordinating of
projects assistants in their different areas of expertise.
Key Result Areas (KRAs)
Project Intellectual Property and legalities Management
o Conducts Project Intellectual Property searching and determination of freedoms and
encumbrances.
o Manages registrations and maintenance of Intellectual Property.
o Manages infringements and avoidance of litigation.
o Develops and implements in-licensing and out-licensing terms.
o Develops and protects inventors’ claims.
Strategy and General Management
o Manages corporate strategic annual planning and reporting cycles.
o Leads and makes decisions in investment appraisal, development of business plans and
strategies.
o Guides in technology, commercial foresight studies and business development.
o Liaises with investors / stakeholders.
o Initiates fundraising for the projects.
Management of Innovation Hub Facilities
o Manages programmes and activities at the Innovation Hub/Science Park.
Qualifications and Experience
A Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM discipline as well as at postgraduate level, plus at least 5 years’
post qualification experience in business development or technology commercialisation.
A Master of Business Administration Degree or any postgraduate business qualification is a
distinct advantage.
A research publication record, with at least 5 peer reviewed journal articles and/or documented
technical reports.
An understanding of the principles of Project Management is essential.
Job Summary
More Information
- Job Application Details APPLICATION PROCEDURE All applications will be treated in strictest confidence. Applications, which should include a curriculum vitae (giving full personal particulars of applicant including full name, place and date of birth, qualifications, employment and experience, present salary, telephone numbers and the names, addresses (including email) and telephone numbers of three contactable referees) and copies of certificates must be addressed to: The Senior Assistant Registrar Human Resources Department National University of Science and Technology P O Box AC 939 Ascot Bulawayo, ZIMBABWE And emailed to: [email protected] in a single pdf file clearly indicating the position being applied for in the subject line. The National University of Science and Technology is an equal opportunity employer. In the interest of promoting gender parity, female candidates are encouraged to apply. The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 20 August, 2021. ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED.