Technical Group Leader: Research and Development at Agrément South Africa November, 2023

Purpose:

• To manage and lead the Research and Development initiatives in the Technical Division of Agrement South Africa for evaluating the fitness of non-standardized construction products, materials, and systems against performance-based criteria.

Duties & Responsibilities
Research and Development
To manage and provide leadership direction to the Research & Development Department of ASA under Technical Services Division, to assist in fulfilling its core functions of assessment, certification, quality control, and research and development of non-standardized and innovative construction products and systems by:

• Broadening research into non-standardized construction-related products and systems
• Coordinate the research of suitable, creative, and innovative testing systems based on requests from technical assessment and quality assurance division/monitoring & evaluation processes
• Assuring specifiers and users of the fitness-for-purpose of non-standardized construction-related products or systems
• Supporting policymakers in minimizing risks associated with using a non-standardized construction-related product or system through formalized collaborations
• Supporting and promoting the introduction and use of certified products and systems
• Development & review of R&D operating procedures & research framework
• Assessing the impact of Agrément South Africa (ASA) innovative construction products and systems
• Development and maintenance of ASA evaluation criteria
• Collaborating with Corporate Service for Stakeholders engagements and management
• Mentoring and coaching research specialists
• Delivery of technical presentations to stakeholders
• Conducting market usage analysis through performance in-use assessments
• Conducting Socio-Economic Impact Assessments on new projects
• Conducting feasibility studies for new projects
• Development of business plans for new Projects
• Verification of certificates directory for validity, accuracy and completeness
• Management of Departmental Budget and fiscal planning
• Management of risk as associated with research and development

Technical Assessment
Support the technical process of Agrement certification by:

• Induction of technical experts to participate in the Technical Committees
• Implement new trends in certification benchmarking with international organizations that are members of the WFTAO (World Federation of Technical Assessment Organisation)
• Maintain and manage links with existing clients and identify prospective clients who can use the competence area services to ensure the sustainability of the business, as well as raise the profile of Agrement South Africa nationally and internationally

Knowledge
Provide and develop a practical level of expertise and knowledge within Agrement’s core business by:

• Seek training and develop your own skills
• Supporting staff development and strategic Human Capital Development (profiles, capacity, and development)
• Recommend training interventions required by the technical staff
• Network and maintain links with specialists required to execute research, technical, and testing functions.
• Monitor industry changes/developments and ensure that the Division is prepared for these developments
• Deliver technical presentations as an industry-level expert

Ad-Hoc Duties

• Lead the research team and perform tasks as required by the Agrement Certification Process in any area or field where the incumbent may be deemed/recognized as an expert or an industry specialist
• Marketing initiatives
• Attend and participate in workshops, conferences, and seminars
• Perform all responsible tasks given by the EMTS

Desired Experience & Qualification
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• A 4-Year Degree in built environment discipline 
• 8 Years’ experience
• Professional Registration       

Ideal     

Managerial and Technical Competencies:

• Project Management
• Knowledge of SABS standards
• Extensive Knowledge of POPI, PAIA, ASA Act
• Knowledge of PFMA and Treasury Regulations
• Ability to maintain high accuracy in preparing and entering information and attention to detail.
• Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information.
• Analytical
• Planning, organizing and Coordination
• Success Orientated
• Technical Report Writing & Presentation

Generic Competencies:

• Accuracy (Essential)
• Attention to detail (Essential)
• Computer Skills (Essential)
• Communication Skills 
• Confidentiality (Essential)
• Planning and organising skills
• Administrative Skills
• Time Management Skills
• Team Working Skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Professionalism