Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Natural Sciences Regulatory Authority
MultiLead Consulting Services · Pretoria, Gauteng
Overview
SACNASP is hiring a CEO to lead the regulation and professionalization of the natural science sector in South Africa. This Pretoria based fixed term part time executive role is perfect for a registered Professional Natural Scientist with a PhD and strong leadership experience. You will report to Council, serve as Accounting Officer, and drive the 2025 to 2030 strategic plan. If you have a passion for science governance and stakeholder partnership, this is a meaningful career move.
About the role
SACNASP, the statutory regulatory authority for the natural scientific profession, is looking for a visionary CEO to lead the organisation. You will provide strategic direction and overall management, ensuring full compliance with the National Scientific Professions Act and other regulations.
As CEO you will serve as the Accounting Officer and report to Council. Your role will focus on implementing the 2025 to 2030 Strategic Plan, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and promoting excellence in the registration and development of natural science professionals.
You will also build and maintain partnerships with government, academia, industry, and professional bodies. Sound financial management, high performing teams, and effective governance will be essential in delivering SACNASP's mandate.
Application note: Send your application to response2@multilead.co.za. For enquiries contact Sphamandla Ndlovu on 011 763 1103 or 011 763 1104. Closing date is 17 November 2026. This position complies with Employment Equity principles.
Requirements
- Doctoral Degree (PhD) in a natural science discipline is required
- Qualification in Business Administration, Public Administration, Governance or Leadership will be an added advantage
- Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist (Pr.Sci.Nat.)
- Demonstrable track record of professional credibility within the natural sciences sector
- Minimum 10 years relevant professional experience in natural sciences, scientific research, professional regulation, higher education, science policy or related environment
- At least 5 years senior management or executive experience
- Proven experience in organisational strategy, operational performance, people management and financial sustainability
- Proven track record in stakeholder engagement with government, academia, industry and professional bodies
- Experience in strategic implementation, business development, revenue diversification, financial oversight and organisational transformation
- Experience in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, risk management and accountability to a Council or Board
Responsibilities
- Ensure SACNASP complies with all prescripts of the National Scientific Professions Act and other applicable legislation
- Lead operations at SACNASP including relevant projects
- Drive and strengthen the mission and vision of SACNASP
- Serve as Accounting Officer and report to Council on all organisational matters
- Direct scientific and professional affairs including registration, regulation, continuing professional development, candidate mentoring and student enrolment
- Direct marketing of registration to students, qualifying scientists and target industries
- Oversee all aspects of activities and developments in the natural sciences that could affect SACNASP
- Lead development, coordination and implementation of strategies, policies and programmes
- Oversee monitoring and evaluation of strategy implementation against targets
- Create, strengthen and widen strategic partnerships with universities, learned societies, government, industry and scientists
- Manage staff through effective performance management and development systems
- Manage the budget in line with PFMA Treasury Regulations and other financial prescripts
- Manage planning cycles including business plans, strategic plans, quarterly and annual reports
Job details
- Organisation
- MultiLead Consulting Services
- Location
- Pretoria, Gauteng
- Job type
- Contract
- Experience level
- Executive (10+ years)
- Education
- Doctorate
- Category
- Science & Research
- Closing date
- 17 November 2026
- Application Email
- response2@multilead.co.za
- Application Method
- Apply via email
Success Guide
This is a senior executive role at SACNASP, so your application should go beyond a standard CV. Make sure your PhD in a natural science field and your SACNASP registration as a Professional Natural Scientist are clearly highlighted upfront. They are looking for at least 10 years of relevant experience, so detail your track record in governance, stakeholder engagement, financial oversight and strategy implementation.
Prepare for a formal interview process that may include a presentation to Council on your vision for the 2025 to 2030 Strategic Plan. Show that you understand the National Scientific Professions Act and the public sector regulatory environment. A short cover letter tailored to SACNASP's mandate will help set you apart. Send your application to response2@multilead.co.za before 17 November 2026.
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