Organisational Development
Dan Archer also brings planning and organisational development skills from projects such as:
- UKZN Extended Learning Initiative (2010 - ): exploring a business structure for the University of KwaZulu-Natal to manage its short courses/extended learning programmes.
- Quantum Technology Hub (2009): prepared a business case for this proposed partnership between the University of KwaZulu-Natal, other research institutions, government and the private sector.
- Msunduzi Innovation and Development Institute (2005 - ): facilitated a partnership agreement among Pietermaritzburg Chamber of Business, Msunduzi Municipality and the University of KwaZulu-Natal, leading to the creation of MIDI which is aimed at supporting local socio-economic development; presently coordinating a number of MIDI projects.
- Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Durban (2002 - 2004): occupied the role of executive chairman of the steering committee for, and played a coordinating/trouble-shooting role in, the establishment of this new R 40 million medical research institute located at the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine.
- Natal University Health (Pty) Ltd (2002 - 8): facilitated the development of a private company to manage the research, medical service activities and university-private partnerships of the University of Natal’s Faculty of Health Sciences; continued to serve as a director and to advise on restructuring the company to become University of KwaZulu-Natal Inc. which will manage a broad range of university business development activities.
- Bayworld, Port Elizabeth (2002): participated in a review of this facility (oceanarium, dolphinarium, snake park and museum) aimed at facilitating its further development through a public-private partnership.
- Biotechnology Research Innovation Centres (2002): facilitated a national workshop aimed at positioning members of AfricaBio (a biotechnology association) to secure three regional biotechnology research centres being established by the then Department of Arts Culture Science and Technology.
- KwaZulu-Natal Innovation (now Embizeni) Support Centre (2001 - 2002): co-chaired the interim management committee and provided facilitative services to establish a public-private partnership to assist technology commercialisation and the development of an information technology hub in Durban.
- Centre for Entrepreneurship, University of KwaZulu-Natal (2000 - 2008): chaired the development committee, secured funding and provided development support for this cross-campus facility, which acts as a focal point for teaching, research and outreach in entrepreneurship; past Chair and Member of the Advisory Board until 2008.
- Festival of the Sea (1998 – 1999): conceptualised and, on behalf of Tourism Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority, developed a business plan for a topical maritime festival; with business, public, recreational, educational and cultural components; initiated Easter 1999 in co-operation with the port authority, SA Navy, NGO's and others.
- Science by the Sea, Durban (1998): proposed and, on behalf of the Department of Arts Culture Science and Technology, directed this event enhancing public awareness of science and technology, contributing to South Africa’s Year of Science and Technology.
- South African Youth Water Prize (1998): in collaboration with the Stockholm International Junior Water Prize, introduced this high school competition to SA, including securing initial financial and logistical support from government, water utilities, and NGO's.
- School of Maritime Studies (1997 – 1999): coordinated the development of this multi-disciplinary institution for the University of Natal.
- Tourism Development Working Group (1997 – 1998): represented the Department of Traditional and Environmental Affairs on this inter-departmental working group to provide advice and liaison on environmentally and socially sustainable tourism development.
- Manitoba Telephone System (1989 – 1990): seconded to advise on restructuring/organisational changes to this 5000 employee, $500+ million revenue Canadian telecommunications crown agency.
- International Institute for Sustainable Development, Manitoba, Canada (1987 – 1988): led working level negotiations with the Government of Canada and the Canadian International Development Agency, which culminated in a commitment to establish this institute in Winnipeg.