Administrative Officer (Two-year contract appointment) - Department for Education Innovation

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.

THE ROLE:

The Administrative Officer will provide effective and efficient administrative support to the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme (MCFSP) at the University of Pretoria (UP).

One defining principle of the MCFSP is that scholars must have demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others as well as academic excellence. It is the responsibility of the Officer, in collaboration with other MCFSP staff at UP, to ensure that these strengths are celebrated and optimised. Scholars must be supported to be empathetic, explore problems, take up challenges and make the best use of opportunities offered on the MCFSP with the end goal in mind - going back to their countries and giving back.

The Administrative Officer must be able to engage with scholars' concerns in a caring, supportive, fair and transparent manner. Excellent client relationship management skills are essential as is an empathetic and solutions-oriented approach.

The incumbent will need to engage effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders. He/she will need to have strong operations management skills, polished interpersonal and communication skills, and the maturity to be an effective representative of the MCFSP and the University of Pretoria.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent's key responsibilities will include:

• Development and maintenance of electronic and manual information management systems; 
• Undertaking general clerical and administrative tasks to support the maintenance of information as may be required;
• Ordering and maintaining proper inventory of office supplies and assets;
• Handling enquiries from the MCFSP Manager, MCFSP staff, Faculties, MCFSP Scholars and other role players in a timely manner;
• Making all necessary arrangements for the successful execution of events and meetings held internally and externally;
• Co-ordinating travel arrangements for MCFSP staff and scholars as necessary;
• Providing financial management support to the Finance Officer.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• An NQF level 6 Diploma in office administration such as financial administration or office management;
• At least three years' work experience related to the specified duties and responsibilities;
• Computer literacy (MS Word, advanced MS Excel, working in online/cloud environments);
• PeopleSoft knowledge and experience in Finance and Asset Management system;  
• Prior experience in working with tertiary students;
• Experience in event co-ordination and project/financial management;
• Valid driver's licence.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• A passion for education, creative problem solving, and empathy towards young people;
• Emotional intelligence and client relationship management awareness;
• Knowledge of information management processes;
• Ability to work independently but also function effectively as part of a team;
• Ability to produce high quality work under pressure;
• Excellent interpersonal and conflict management skills;
• Strong organisational skills;
• Adaptability and decisiveness;
• Appropriate language and communication skills.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• A relevant degree;
• Additional certificates related to the core functions of the post e,g. project management;
• Two years' experience working in a higher education environment.

PLEASE NOTE:

All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The all-inclusive remuneration package for this contract position will be commensurate with the incumbent's level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.

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

In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive CV;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE:

2 November 2018

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

ENQUIRIES:

Dr O.O Shyllon, Tel: (012) 420 2681

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.