Director: Residence Affairs and Accommodation - Department of Residence Affairs and Accommodation

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy. The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The incumbent will:

• Ensure, through continuous strategic leadership and management, the effective overall functioning of the Department of Residence Affairs and Accommodation in accordance with the Strategic Plan of the University of Pretoria;
• Ensure the effective monitoring and implementation of the vision for student life to foster student success and institutional transformation;
• Ensure, through continuous efficient and effective operational management and support, the management of the following sub-divisions: Placement Management and Guest Accommodation, Residence Management and Student life, Student Support and Leadership Development, Postgraduate and Postdoc Housing Management, Food Services, Finances and Administration, Residence Facilities and Maintenance Management;
• Residence Systems Management;
• Monitor the performance of Heads of Residences and the management of leased accommodation for students with external providers;
• Prepare budgets and monitor financial resources of the Department of Residence Affairs and Accommodation;
• Develop and implement annual performance plans for the Department;
• Formulate and review student residential life policies to ensure the safety and security, discipline and quality of life for students;
• Ensure, through continuous strategic leadership and management, the enhancement of a quality listening, living and learning experiences for staff and students;
• Implement the student wellbeing.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Relevant postgraduate qualification, at least on a Master's level;
• Ten years' senior management experience, which includes at least five years' management experience in a higher education and/or residence environment.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES)

Proven experience in, and knowledge of inter alia:

• Strategic management and planning;
• Internal and external stakeholder relations;
• Financial, administrative and business management;
• Human resources management;
• Management of large projects;
• Facilities management and maintenance;
• Food services management (on an industrial scale);
• Management of student residential life;
• Applied knowledge and experience in the provision of private off-campus student accommodation and associated services, management of relationships, etc.;
• The ability and sophistication needed to operate in a multicultural and diverse environment that caters for the needs of staff, national and international undergraduate and postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows;
• Change management: negotiations, conflict resolution and multi-party dispute skills.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES

• An understanding of contemporary issues confronting students at universities in the current economic climate in South Africa;
• Understanding of the relevant legislation and the higher education policies affecting universities' operations and reporting requirements.

PLEASE NOTE

All shortlisted candidates will be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process and make a presentation on their vision for student life.

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent's level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid scheme and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za, and follow the link: Careers@UP.

In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive CV;
• An abridged CV;
• A self-evaluation statement, no more than three pages that demonstrate how you are suitable for this position;
• Your vision (as the potential Director: Residence Affairs and Accommodation) for the Department;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE

16 November 2018, No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES

Ms L Jooste, Tel: (012) 420 6921, Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 January 2019, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups. All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials. The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.]