DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR: INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT (Five-Year Fixed-Term Performance-Based Contract)

Introduction The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) seeks to appoint an accomplished Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Institutional Support. The appointee will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across all non-academic functions of the Institutional Support Portfolio. The portfolio encompasses the following units across all campuses of the University: (a) Protection and Security Services, (b) Communication and Marketing, (c) Student Services, (d) Information and Communications Technology, (e) Institutional Planning, and (f) Institutional Quality Assurance. Specifically, the appointee will ensure that UNIZULU Protection and Security Services, Communication and Marketing, Student Services, Information and Communications Technology, and Institutional Planning and Quality Assurance are efficiently governed and managed to support the institution’s mission of delivering high-quality education and financial sustainability.

Duties & Responsibilities The incumbent will have strategic oversight of all operational functions, champion data protection, and drive compliance, efficiency, institutional quality, and sustainable practice across the University campuses.

 

The incumbent will be required to implement higher education and institutional policies, processes, and systems to ensure quality, efficiency, compliance, accountability, and sustainability in the management of physical, financial, and human resources. A key focus of the role will be strengthening institutional systems to support campus integration and enhancing organisational culture to enable optimal service delivery to all stakeholders.

 

The position is a five-year fixed-term appointment, with the possibility of renewal for a further five-year term, subject to satisfactory work performance.

Desired Experience & Qualification MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

 

Qualifications

 

A Doctoral Degree in Business Leadership or Business Administration or Operations Management or a related field. Possession of a recognised qualification (or working towards it) in Health and Safety will be an added advantage.

 

Experience

 

At least 10 years extensive experience in operational and governance leadership within a multi-campus higher education environment or equivalent context/setting. Strong track record in project financial management, property / estates oversight, marketing /communication, and/or health and safety compliance. Experience in leading contract negotiations, procurement processes and risk management. Demonstrable insight into Supply Chain Management laws and practices. Evidence of successful experience in project management, including proven ability to work with multiple constituencies and drive efforts spanning a wide range of functions. Previous experience as a Director of Operations or similar leadership role. Desirable is experience of managing capital projects, institutional expansions and sustainability initiatives including bid writing and accessing additional funding streams.

 

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

 

Strong understanding of property and employment law, Operations management best practices, and well-being initiatives. Ability to develop and implement University-wide policies and procedures effectively. Ability to develop strategy and implement operational plans in all areas of this portfolio. Negotiation and communication and financial management, and budgeting skills. High-level communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage with stakeholders at all levels. Familiarity with property management, facilities planning, and sustainability projects. Knowledge of Data Protection, and strong planning, coordination, and interpersonal skills.

 

Personal Attributes

 

Strong ethical leadership and a commitment to supporting the University’s vision and values. Ability to work under pressure, handling complex operational challenges effectively. A collaborative approach to leadership, promoting a positive and supportive working environment.

Package & Remuneration A competitive total annual remuneration package, inclusive of benefits, will be offered to the successful candidate.

Interested? All applications must include the following, which are critical in evaluating each application received:

 

A Self-Evaluation by the applicant showing how his/her competences and qualifications meet the requirements for appointment. University of Zululand Application Form. A detailed Curriculum Vitae. Certified copies of all academic qualifications. Copy of Identity Document. Names and contact details of at least three (3) contactable work-related referees (one must be a current or recent superior). One confidential referee report to be emailed by one of the referees directly to the email address specified below.

 

To obtain the University of Zululand Application Form, please visit the University website and click on Vacancies (http://www.unizulu.ac.za/vacancies). Applications must be submitted by emailing the completed Form, together with the required supporting documentation, to Ms N.N. Mdletshe at MdletsheNN@unizulu.ac.za or by submitting an application via PNET (www.pnet.co.za).

 

All applications must be received no later than 12h00 on the closing date.