Open Access Repositories and Metadata Specialist.

ORCID: 0000-0002-9268-992X

I am a dedicated and experienced professional with extensive expertise in the development and management of open access repositories, digital preservation, and scholarly content management. Proven track record in training, advocacy, and coordination of academic events. Seeking to leverage my skills and passion for open access to contribute to a dynamic organization.

Professional Experience

• Institutional Repository Manager University of South Africa (Unisa), (1988-2022)
• Led the development and management of the Unisa Institutional Repository, establishing it as a flagship platform for scholarly content.
• Implemented best practices in descriptive metadata creation, indexing, and abstracting, ensuring optimal discoverability and accessibility of research outputs.
• Spearheaded digital preservation initiatives, ensuring long-term accessibility and integrity of digital assets.
• Evaluated and recommended repository platforms, staying abreast of emerging technologies and trends.
• Coordinated annual Unisa Open Access Week celebrations and events, fostering awareness and advocacy for open access principles.
• Provided training and support to academic and library staff in utilizing the repository, including the development of guidelines and tutorials.
• Engaged in advocacy efforts to promote open access to research and scholarly outputs.

External Engagements

• Peer-reviewed articles and conference papers, contributing to the advancement of scholarly knowledge.
• Lectured and tutored in the Carnegie Professional Development programme, imparting expertise in institutional repositories, DSpace repository software, descriptive metadata and open access to research information. (University of Pretoria – 2016-2018)
• Served as an external examiner and moderator for library and information science students, ensuring academic rigor and quality assurance. (University of Pretoria – 2001-2022)
• Consultancy contract to restructure the institutional repository – University of the Witwatersrand – 2023-2024.

Education

• Bibl Honours, University of South Africa (Unisa),1994
• Bibl North-West University, 1980

Skills

• Proficient in the development and management of open access repositories
• Strong understanding of descriptive metadata standards
• Experience in digital preservation and digitization
• Skilled in evaluating and selecting repository platforms
• Excellent training and facilitation abilities
• Effective advocacy and communication skills
• Commitment to open access principles and scholarly dissemination