Director: Residential Services

UWC Sport; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

University of the Western Cape invites applications for the position of Director: Residential Services on the Main Campus, Bellville, WC. The role reports to the Deputy Vice Chancellor: Student Development & Support and requires delivering strategic leadership across Student Housing, Administration & Placement, and Reslife.

The successful candidate will lead in residence strategy, governance, and operations, ensuring high standards of safety, compliance, and student-focused service delivery.

Qualifications

• Masters degree or equivalent professional qualification (NQF 9).
• Experience in managing residence operations or related environment, with at least 10 years in a managerial role.
• Experience in higher education or multi-campus settings.
• Knowledge of SA housing, health and safety legislation; relevant certifications encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of all residence-related functions across the University.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive residence management strategy aligned with the University's mission and goals.
• Establish policies, standards and systems for effective residence management.
• Drive programmes to enhance student satisfaction, retention and success.
• Oversee allocation, occupancy and maintenance of student residences; ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Strategic Leadership

Financial Acumen

Digital Acumen

Student-Centred Approach

Collaboration

Risk & Compliance Management

Communication

Coaching & Mentoring

Change Facilitation

Education

Masters degree or equivalent (NQF 9)

Job description

Title of Position

Director: Residential Services

Post Number

4089

Faculty/Department

University of the Western Cape -> Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Student Development & Support -> Residential Services

Type of Position

Permanent - Full Time

Location

Main Campus - Bellville, WC ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

6/11/2026

Role Clarification & Key Performance Areas

Development and Support (SDS), Residential Services plays a pivotal role in creating a holistic and enabling environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Residential Services is committed to fostering a value-driven, student-centred culture that enhances the living-learning experience for all residents. The department oversees the strategic and operational management of three key sections, namely, Student Housing, Administration & Placement, and Reslife.

Key Responsibilities

Reporting to the Deputy Vice Chancellor: Student Development and Support, the Director: Residential Services will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of all residence-related functions across the University. The successful candidate will be expected to implement the integrated talent management framework, including the performance development processes, and the responsibilities listed below:

• Strategic Leadership
• Develop and implement a comprehensive residence management and student accommodation strategy aligned with UWC’s mission and strategic goals.
• Establish and maintain policies, standards, and systems for effective residence management.
• Drive programmes that enhance student satisfaction, retention, and overall success.
• Implement the integrated talent management framework, including performance development and culture within the department.
• Residence and Operational Management
• Oversee the allocation, occupancy, and maintenance of student residences.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Manage residence applications, fee collection, and student accommodation records efficiently.
• Student Development and Support
• Promote a supportive and inclusive residential environment that facilitates academic and personal growth.
• Collaborate with student support services to deliver residence life programmes and wellness initiatives.
• Uphold a fair and consistent residence code of conduct and disciplinary framework.
• Infrastructure and Facilities Management
• Partner with Infrastructure Development and other stakeholders on renovations, upgrades, and new residence projects.
• Facilitate preventative maintenance programmes and utilities management to ensure operational efficiency and sustainability.
• Financial Management
• Develop, implement, and monitor the departmental budget.
• Ensure sound financial management, accountability, and cost-effectiveness in residence operations.
• Identify and pursue revenue-generating opportunities.
• Risk Management and Compliance
• Implement risk mitigation strategies, including safety, emergency preparedness, and facility integrity.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal, regulatory, and institutional requirements.
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Strengthen partnerships with students, parents, internal departments, and external service providers.
• Engage with private accommodation providers to expand student housing opportunities.
• Represent the University and department on relevant committees and forums.

Minimum Requirements

• Masters degree or equivalent professional qualification (NQF 9)
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience at a managerial level in student residential accommodation, residence administration, or a related environment.
• Experience in higher education or a multi-campus environment.
• Knowledge of South African legislation governing student housing, health, and safety.
• Additional training or certification in property, facilities, or project management.

Competencies

• Strategic Leadership.
• Digital Acumen
• Financial Acumen
• Student-Centred Approach
• Collaboration
• Risk and Compliance Management
• Communication
• Coaching and Mentoring
• Change facilitation

DISCLAIMER: By applying for the position, you consent to the University sharing your application, including curriculum vitae, with University stakeholders to process the application. In line with the University’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with our Employment Equity Targets. The official retirement age at UWC is 65 years. The University reserves the right to not make an appointment, make an appointment at a different level, seek additional candidates and may conduct competency assessments.