Research Centre Manager – Information and Cybersecurity

About the role

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is seeking a Research Centre Manager to lead its Information and Cybersecurity Centre within the Defence and Security Cluster. Based in Pretoria, the incumbent will provide strategic and technical leadership to multiple research groups, ensuring the Centre delivers impactful research, development and innovation.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Centre’s research, development and innovation (RDI) strategy in collaboration with cluster leadership.
• Provide strategic direction, people management and capability development for research teams.
• Drive business development, stakeholder engagement and technology transfer to industry and user environments.
• Oversee financial sustainability, budgeting and commercialisation of technologies.
• Lead the formulation of strategic investment goals and business plans for growth and impact.
• Establish and maintain strategic alliances, including international collaborations.

Required profile

• Proven experience in leading research or technology groups, preferably in cybersecurity or related fields.
• Strong strategic planning, people‑management and stakeholder‑engagement capabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to secure funding, manage budgets and drive commercialisation.
• Experience working within defence, security or high‑technology environments is advantageous.

Required skills