Location: Pretoria
Job Type: Permanent
Reference Number: HR/001/2026
Closing Date: 22 May 2026
Annual Salary: R413 001.00
About the Opportunity
South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is inviting applications from motivated, professional, and highly organized individuals for the position of Office Manager: Office of the General Manager: Human Resources.
This role is ideal for experienced administrative and office management professionals who are passionate about supporting executive management, coordinating office operations, and ensuring efficient human resources administration within a professional environment.
The successful candidate will provide high-level administrative, financial, procurement, and operational support to the Office of the General Manager: Human Resources and its Directorates.
Main Purpose of the Position
The purpose of this role is to provide efficient and effective administrative and operational support to the General Manager: Human Resources while ensuring the smooth functioning of the office and assisting with key human resources processes and activities.
The role requires someone who is highly professional, organized, confidential, and capable of working under pressure while maintaining quality work standards.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants must possess:
- A Degree in:
- Office Management
- Public Administration
- Human Resources Management
- Or an equivalent relevant qualification at NQF Level 7
Added Advantage
- Postgraduate qualification or equivalent relevant qualification at NQF Level 8
Experience Requirements
Candidates must have:
- Minimum 4 years of relevant work experience in:
- Office administration
- Office management
- Human resources support
- Executive support environments
Essential Competencies and Skills
The successful candidate should demonstrate strong knowledge and experience in:
Office Administration and Management
- Office management principles and practices
- Administrative systems and procedures
- Records management and office coordination
Human Resources Support
- HR administration processes
- HR compliance support
- Coordination of HR-related activities
Technical and Computer Skills
Advanced computer literacy in:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Project
- Internet applications
Professional Skills
- Advanced planning and organisational abilities
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Confidentiality and professionalism
- Ability to work under pressure
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to work within diverse teams
Additional Requirements
Applicants must also have:
- A valid driver’s license
- At least one year of practical driving experience
- Willingness to travel when required
Key Responsibilities
Office Management
The Office Manager will:
- Manage daily operations within the Office of the General Manager: Human Resources
- Coordinate administrative and operational activities
- Ensure efficient workflow and office functionality
Human Resources Support
Responsibilities include:
- Supporting the General Manager with HR functions
- Coordinating HR-related administrative tasks
- Assisting the HR Directorates with operational support
Financial and Budget Administration
The successful candidate will:
- Manage office finances and budgets
- Track expenditure
- Support financial compliance and reporting processes
Procurement and Compliance
Duties include:
- Managing procurement activities
- Ensuring compliance with SANBI procedures and policies
- Assisting with procurement administration and reporting
Stakeholder Liaison
The role also requires:
- Liaising with Heads of Divisions
- Coordinating with SANBI Senior and Top Management
- Supporting communication and coordination across departments
Important Application Information
Applicants must submit:
- A motivational letter explaining why they should be considered
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Full details of at least three referees, including:
- Names
- Telephone numbers
- Addresses
- Email addresses if available
Failure to provide the required documents and reference number may result in the application not being considered.
Selection Process
- A competency test will form part of the recruitment process.
- Candidates may be required to attend interviews on dates determined by SANBI.
- If applicants do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful.
Employment Equity
South African National Biodiversity Institute supports employment equity and encourages applications from persons with disabilities. Preference may be given to candidates from designated groups in line with SANBI’s Employment Equity Plan.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
This position offers an excellent opportunity for professionals looking to build or advance a career within a respected national organization involved in biodiversity and environmental management.
Benefits of the role include:
- Stable permanent employment
- Competitive annual salary
- Exposure to executive-level administration
- Experience within a government-linked institution
- Opportunities to strengthen HR and office management expertise
For enquiries regarding this position, applicants may contact:
Mr Stephen Mahlangu
Tel: +27 (0)12 002 5217



