Director : Learning Development

NMU; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

An established university in Gqeberha seeks an experienced manager to oversee the Learning Development programmes aimed at enhancing student success. The role requires a deep understanding of educational principles and at least 6-8 years of relevant experience. Candidates must possess a master's degree, though a doctorate is preferred. This position emphasizes leadership, strategic planning, and the effective management of resources.

Qualifications

• In-depth understanding of student success and development principles.
• Knowledge of higher education trends and legislation.
• Experience in resource management.

Responsibilities

• Inform stakeholders about the value of student success programmes.
• Develop and implement policies for student success.
• Manage LD programme development and resources.

Skills

Networking

Facilitation

Communication

Leadership

Strategic planning

Motivational skills

Conflict resolution

HR planning

Financial management

Research and data analysis

Education

Doctorate in psychology, education, or human social development

Job description

Overview

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB

The purpose of this post is to manage and co-ordinate the range of student Learning Development (LD) programmes at the Nelson Mandela University. The incumbent is required to direct and manage the effective, professional and ethical delivery, co-ordination and development of these programmes, promoting their complementary offering to ensure the highest possible impact on student success.

Responsibilities

• To inform University staff, students and their parents, schools, further and higher education institutions, and USAf regarding the value of these programmes in enhancing student success and identifying and supporting the developmental needs of students.
• To develop, maintain and implement policies and procedures related to student success and to facilitate access to these programmes and assessment of these practices.
• To manage the development and implementation of LD programmes, the databases to support these and wider university student success initiatives and appropriate research.
• To manage the projects and the review process of the Applicant Score (AS) admissions criteria
• To manage the human and financial resources in LD.

Qualifications

• An in-depth understanding of the principles and best practices related to student success and development.
• Knowledge of higher education trends, nationally and internationally.
• Knowledge of higher education legislation (including FET), policy and regulatory frameworks.
• Networking, facilitation and communication skills.
• Leadership, strategic planning and management skills.
• Advocacy and motivational skills.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
• HR and financial planning and management skills.
• Research and data analysis knowledge and skills.

Requirements

• Candidates must possess at least a master’s degree but preferably a doctorate or equivalent in psychology, education, or human social development with an emphasis on psychosocial and educational development.
• Be registered with an appropriate professional body and
• Have at least 6 to 8 years’ experience in which competencies have been gained.

DISCLAIMER : Nelson Mandela University is a designated employer committed to pursuing excellence, diversity, inclusion, and redress in achieving its employment equity targets. Preference will be given to suitably qualified (Race and Gender) candidates in accordance with the University's employment equity targets. No applications will be accepted after the closing date Friday, 26 September 2025.