Innovation Lead – ICT

About the role

The Innovation Lead – ICT will coordinate and support ICT‑driven innovation initiatives within the Research and Innovation Division of Midlands State University. The role bridges academic research, industry partners and students to foster commercially viable technology solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate and support ICT innovation projects and initiatives.
• Promote emerging ICT technologies and build a culture of disruptive innovation on campus.
• Provide technical guidance on ICT product, software and systems development, digital platforms and automation.
• Identify commercially viable intellectual property and facilitate its commercialisation.
• Engage with students, researchers, academic departments, industry partners and community stakeholders.
• Support technology‑based start‑ups, spin‑offs and commercialisation activities.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, Telecommunications, Computer Engineering or a related ICT field.
• At least two years of relevant experience in research and development, ICT innovation, software or systems development, or technology commercialisation.
• Master’s degree or ongoing Master’s studies in a relevant field is an advantage.
• Strong technical knowledge of ICT systems, software development and emerging digital technologies.
• Understanding of innovation ecosystems, IP development and technology transfer.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to support start‑ups and spin‑offs.

Required skills

• ICT systems
• Software development
• Digital platforms
• Automation