Portfolio Manager: Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Job Advert Summary

The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) is a talent-driven, customer-centric, and impact-focused organisation committed to advancing technology innovation that delivers meaningful socio-economic outcomes. As part of this mission, TIA seeks to attract and retain high-performing professionals who embody teamwork, innovation, agility, customer focus, accountability, and a strong commitment to creating value. These attributes are cultivated to foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, impact, and responsibility.

In fulfilling its mandate, TIA provides both financial and non-financial support to innovators and enterprises, enabling the development and commercialisation of technologies that contribute to economic growth, improve quality of life, and promote environmental sustainability. The Agency is committed to transformation and supports the advancement of previously disadvantaged individuals in accordance with the Employment Equity Act, as amended.

Job Purpose:

To develop, manage, and support a portfolio of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) innovation projects and investments across the Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), Business Readiness Levels (BRLs), and Market Readiness Levels (MRLs), with the objective of accelerating successful commercialisation and maximising socio-economic impact.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Information Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• A business-related qualification will be advantageous.
• A Master's Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Three (3)– five (5) years’ experience within an ICT research, development, and innovation environment.
• Three (3) - Five (5) years’ experience in the management, commercialisation, or investment of ICT innovations and technologies.

Knowledge and Technical Competencies

• Strong understanding of technology development, innovation management, and investment trends within the ICT sector.
• Knowledge of innovation funding mechanisms and support systems for emerging technologies.
• Understanding of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and public sector governance requirements.
• Knowledge of technology commercialisation, venture development, and innovation ecosystems.

Behavioural Competencies

• Client and stakeholder focus
• Innovation and continuous improvement
• Strategic and analytical thinking

Duties and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Management and Revenue Growth

• Support the Head of Division in the development of annual budgets, forecasts, and financial plans for Executive Committee (EXCO) and Board approval.
• Monitor and track operational and project expenditure against approved budgets.
• Manage and oversee the timely disbursement of funding to ensure optimal execution of innovation projects.
• Identify new funding opportunities and facilitate the attraction of co-investment and third-party funding.
• Monitor and manage repayment obligations relating to equity, royalties, loans, and other investment instruments.

Stakeholder Management and Thought Leadership

• Contribute to the development and implementation of stakeholder engagement strategies within the Strategic Technology Area (STA).
• Build and maintain strong relationships across the innovation ecosystem, including industry, academia, government, investors, and strategic partners.
• Represent TIA at conferences, workshops, industry forums, and stakeholder engagements by sharing expertise and contributing to thought leadership.
• Influence and contribute positively to the National System of Innovation (NSI) through strategic participation and expert input.

Governance, Compliance, and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with all applicable TIA policies, frameworks, governance requirements, and regulatory obligations.
• Promote adherence to organisational systems, processes, and controls.
• Ensure audit findings and portfolio-related compliance matters are addressed within agreed timelines.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and up-to-date project information on the fund management and reporting systems.
• Prepare and submit timely, accurate, and high-quality reports in line with organisational requirements.

Innovation Funding and Pre-Commercialisation Support

• Support innovators and applicants in developing investment-ready and fundable opportunities.
• Assess investment opportunities and provide recommendations on funding decisions.
• Provide project management and technical support to funded projects to ensure achievement of agreed milestones and outcomes.
• Conduct technical and commercial due diligence on projects, programmes, and investment opportunities.
• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks while leveraging opportunities to optimise portfolio performance.
• Manage the full project lifecycle, from sourcing and evaluation to investment, monitoring, commercialisation, and exit.
• Facilitate the commercialisation of TIA-funded technologies and innovations.
• Develop and maintain a pipeline of high-potential investment opportunities within strategic ICT technology domains.
• Deliver client-centric, value-adding portfolio and project management services.
• Drive continuous improvement of processes, systems, and portfolio management practices.

Learning and Growth

• Ensure clear understanding and achievement of agreed Key Performance Areas (KPAs) and performance targets.
• Monitor and evaluate performance against established standards and objectives.
• Demonstrate and promote TIA’s values and organisational culture.
• Identify and pursue professional development opportunities to enhance individual effectiveness and organisational performance.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and excellence.