The South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI), a division of the SASA, is seeking an Extension and Biosecurity Manager to lead extension and biosecurity service provision to the 22 000 growers within the South African sugar industry. In this critically important leadership role, which reports to the SASRI Director, the incumbent is required to provide strategic oversight and practical support to a large team of extension and biosecurity specialists to facilitate their delivery of effective extension and biosecurity services. The incumbent also provides leadership and support to the SASRI Small-scale and Land Reform Grower Extension Manager who is responsible for the close liaison that is required within an Extension Venture Agreement with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The activities of the Extension and Biosecurity Manager are supported by a Resource Manager and Administrative Assistant.

A core responsibility of the Extension and Biosecurity Manager is facilitation of the activities of a team of regionally based extension specialists through their annual programmes of work which are developed collaboratively with the local sugarcane grower leadership. Skilfulness in establishing and maintaining cordial and effective working relationships with growers throughout the sugar industry is a critical requirement of the position. In addition to maintaining an effective network of relationships external to SASRI, the incumbent is also required to foster cordial and efficient working relationships with internal SASRI functions upon which the efficacy of the extension service depends, including knowledge management, plant breeding, research, quarantine, and a variety of diagnostic services provided by SASRI for growers.

A further key responsibility of the position is provision of leadership to the SASA biosecurity inspectorate which acts with growers to mitigate existing bio risks to sustainable sugarcane production and proactively identify and develop mitigation tactics for emerging threats from pests, pathogens, and weeds. As the legislated biosecurity mandate for sugarcane agriculture has been devolved by national government to SASA, the SASRI Extension and Biosecurity Manager is required to manage regulatory affairs in respect of pest, disease and sugarcane variety control and the provision of guidance to regulatory and implementing committees within the industry. The incumbent is also required to develop and maintain appropriate audit functions of these committees.

The position demands deep awareness of technological and regulatory developments that may affect grower compliance with legislation regarding agriculture practices. As a result, the SASRI Extension and Biosecurity Manager serves as SASRI representative on several regulatory bodies and committees, both within and external to the industry.

As the Extension and Biosecurity Manager leads complex operational teams throughout the industry, an ability to motivate, inspire and manage people is an essential requirement of the position. Additionally, the incumbent is required to have a good understanding of budget management and health and safety compliance.

Given the seniority, complexity and high-level of responsibility carried by the position, SASRI is seeking an individual with: (a) a post-graduate qualification in the agricultural or biological sciences: (b) five years of senior management experience; and (c) over five years of experience working in advisory or research capacity on agricultural pests and diseases and crop husbandry. A business-related qualification would also be considered advantageous.

Furthermore, the following will contribute to effectiveness in the role.

• Extensive experience in agricultural extension
• Strong communication (written and verbal) and influencing skills.
• Planning and coordination skills and good knowledge of project management principles

• Knowledge and application of biosecurity environmental and agro-chemical legislation, principles, and practice in the agricultural sector
• Customer service focus
• Computer literacy including Microsoft Word/Excel

The Manager will travel extensively and must have a valid driver's licence and roadworthy vehicle.