Director: Residential Services

The University of the Western Cape; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of the Western Cape seeks a Director: Residential Services to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of student housing across the campus. The role drives the integrated talent framework, manages residence applications and finances, and partners with support services to deliver a stimulating, safe, and inclusive living-learning environment for all residents.

Reporting to executive leadership, you will oversee policy development, health and safety compliance, and

Qualifications

• Ten years or more in a managerial role within student residential accommodation, residence administration, or related environment.
• Experience in higher education or multi-campus settings.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of all residence-related functions.
• Implement talent management and performance development frameworks within the department.
• Oversee allocation, occupancy, and maintenance of student residences ensuring safety and compliance.
• Progress student development, wellbeing, and inclusive residential programs in collaboration with support services.
• Develop and monitor the department budget and pursue cost-effective operations and revenue opportunities.
• Engage stakeholders, including external providers, to expand housing opportunities and partnerships.

Skills

Strategic Leadership

Digital Acumen

Communication

Coaching & Mentoring

Change facilitation

Risk & Compliance

Student-Centred Approach

Job description

Title of Position: Director: Residential Services
Location: Main Campus - Bellville, WC ZA (Primary)
Closing Date: 06/11/2026

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:

1. 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.

2. 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 recordsefficiently.

3. Student Development and Support

• Promote a supportive and inclusive residential environment that facilitatesacademic 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.

4. 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 toensure operational efficiency and sustainability.
• Develop, implement, and monitor the departmental budget.
• Ensure sound financial management, accountability, and cost-effectiveness inresidence operations.
• Identify and pursue revenue-generating opportunities.

6. 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.

7. 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.
• 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.
• Strategic Leadership.
• Digital Acumen
• Student-Centred Approach
• 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.