Director: Residential Services

UWC Sport; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution is seeking a Director of Residential Services for its campus in Bellville, WC ZA. This permanent, full-time position involves strategic leadership to enhance student accommodation and overall satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess a Master’s degree and over 10 years of managerial experience in residential accommodation. Responsibilities include overseeing residence management, compliance, financial management, and fostering student development. The application deadline is January 30, 2026. Interested candidates should apply through the provided link or contact HR for inquiries.

Qualifications

• 10+ years experience in student residential accommodation or related environment.
• Knowledge of South African legislation on student housing and health.
• Additional training in property, facilities, or project management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement accommodation strategy aligned with UWC’s mission.
• Oversee allocation, occupancy, and maintenance of student residences.
• Promote an inclusive residential environment for student growth.
• Manage departmental budget effectively.
• Ensure compliance with legal and institutional requirements.

Skills

Strategic Leadership

Financial Acumen

Collaboration

Communication

Risk and Compliance Management

Education

Master’s degree or equivalent professional qualification (NQF Level 9)

Job description

Director: Residential Services

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: 30/1/2026

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

• 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.
• 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

• A Master’s degree or equivalent professional qualification (NQF Level 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

In your application, you are encouraged to highlight your strengths and include anything else you deem exceptional and outstanding to be considered by the selection panel. In addition, please attach a cover letter motivating your suitability, a detailed curriculum vitae including contact details of three referees, and your highest qualification to your online profile.

To be considered for this vacancy, you must click on the Apply for this Job link below or apply directly via UWC Careers at https://uwc.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll. For any queries, please contact the Human Resources Department at [phone]/3642/9362/9708/3160/3756 or email: [e-mail].

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.