General Manager – National Botanical Gardens

About the role

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) seeks a highly motivated General Manager to provide strategic leadership for its eleven National Botanical Gardens across eight provinces. This senior position will shape the future of the Gardens division, driving expansion, conservation, research, and commercial activities.

Key responsibilities

• Set strategic direction for the management, development and expansion of the National Botanical Gardens and associated conservation estates.
• Lead implementation of the National Botanical Garden Expansion Strategy (2019‑2030) and oversee living‑collection management, research, interpretation and public accessibility.
• Manage strategic partnerships, infrastructure projects and tourism/commercial revenue initiatives.
• Direct off‑site (ex situ) and on‑site (in situ) plant conservation programmes.
• Promote human‑capital development, succession planning and the SANBI Horticultural Career Ladder.
• Ensure governance, risk, health‑and‑safety and compliance across all gardens.
• Mobilise resources to support maintenance and development of the division.

Required profile

• Post‑graduate degree (NQF Level 8) in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Ecology, Biology, Botany or an equivalent field.
• Additional postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 9) is an advantage.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant senior‑level experience in biodiversity, conservation, horticulture or related sectors.

Required skills