We are hiring
Vacancy: Part-time Executive Director
South African Mathematics Foundation
The South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF) is registered as a non-profit company aiming to advance the mathematics development and education of South African children and young people through improved quality teaching and learning of mathematics as well as through public awareness activities. The company was founded in 2004 by the Association for Mathematics Education of South Africa (AMESA) and the South African Mathematical Society (SAMS).
The strategic pillars of the SAMF are:
- Learner Development
- Teacher Development
- Advocacy
- Research
Role Overview
The SAMF seeks a dynamic and visionary leader with a good understanding of the mathematical landscape to embrace its vision and mandate and achieve its strategic goals. Reporting to the SAMF Board of Directors, it is expected that the Executive Director will utilise her or his academic, research, and managerial expertise to guide the foundation to its next level of success. Adept at building partnerships and pursuing strategic initiatives the Executive Director will nurture a collaborative environment that is in pursuit of academic excellence and contributes to the ongoing growth of the mathematical sciences in South Africa and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Vision and Leadership
- Develop a strategic plan that guides the Foundation’s direction, together with the SAMF Board, and ensure that this plan is communicated and put into action.
- Champion the direction and development of the Foundation’s initiatives to bolster the SAMF’s profile and credibility as a key stakeholder to improve mathematics and mathematics education.
- Oversee the Foundation’s educational and research programmes, ensuring that they maintain integrity, align to strategy and have contemporary relevance.
Business Development and Partnership Building
- In consultation with partners and stakeholders, develop a business plan for the SAMF’s growth, opening opportunities for mathematical sciences in South Africa.
- Strengthen the SAMF’s relationship with relevant government departments including but not limited to the Departments of Basic Education, Higher Education and Science, Technology and Innovation, as well as other key academic stakeholders within the mathematical sciences landscape.
- Build collaborations with industry to support the SAMF’s initiatives and oversee the Foundation’s fundraising plan.
- Represent the SAMF and advocate for its vision in national and international bodies/entities/forum.
Minimum Requirements
The successful candidate will meet the following criteria:
- Master’s degree in mathematics/mathematics education. A PhD in mathematics/ mathematics education will be an advantage.
- Evidence of effective interpersonal and relationship management skills.
- A minimum of 15 years management experience.
- Understanding of the South African educational environment together with knowledge of educational policies and recent developments concerning mathematics education.
- Driver’s license and own vehicle.
- Willingness to travel in order to perform duties.
Appointment and application procedure
The appointment is a part-time contract, for three years, and is renewable for a further term subject to approval by the SAMF Board. It is available for filling on the 1st of July 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.
To apply, please submit a cover letter and CV to [email protected]. Potential applicants may contact Prof Kerstin Jordaan at [email protected] for further information. The closing date for applications is the 1st of February 2025.
The SAMF reserves the right not to make an appointment. If you do not receive any response within a month of the closing date, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful. Regret correspondence will only be sent to interviewed candidates.