Executive Director: People Management and Engagement (5 Year – Fixed Term)

Unitalentza; Oos-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for an Executive Director for People Management and Engagement. This pivotal leadership role will shape the strategic direction of the university, overseeing critical areas like Human Resources and stakeholder engagement. You will lead initiatives in gender diversity and GBV prevention, ensuring compliance with legal standards while fostering a collaborative environment. If you have a passion for people management and a strong background in higher education, this is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in people management and engagement.
• Extensive knowledge of HR and legal requirements in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of HR policies and strategies.
• Manage financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Drive transformation strategies and oversee HR functions.

Skills

People Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Financial Planning

Organisational Leadership

Gender-Based Violence Awareness

Strategic Leadership

Education

Masters in Human Resources Management

Doctoral degree in relevant field

Job description

Position: Executive Director: People Management and Engagement (5 Year – Fixed Term)

Introduction

The University of Fort Hare is seeking an Executive Director for People Management and Engagement. This leadership role is pivotal in shaping the university's strategic direction and overseeing key support directorates such as Human Resources, GBV Prevention & Gender Diversity, and Marketing & Communications.

Key Responsibilities

1. Governance & Strategic Leadership: Lead the development and implementation of policies, strategies, and oversee the university’s reputation and stakeholder networks.
2. Strategy & Visioning: Formulate and review strategic plans aligned with the university’s mission and conduct regular strategic reviews.
3. Financial Planning & Budgeting: Conduct financial projections, allocate resources, and oversee budget approval and control.
4. Organisational Leadership: Manage leadership talent, succession planning, and performance management.
5. Stakeholder Engagement: Develop partnerships locally and internationally, and participate in policy and decision-making bodies.
6. Marketing & Communications: Develop strategies, oversee media relations, and manage institutional reputation and stakeholder engagement.
7. Gender-Based Violence & Diversity Leadership: Lead initiatives, monitor impact, and collaborate on programs related to GBV and gender diversity.
8. Institutional Transformation & HR Leadership: Drive transformation strategies, oversee HR functions, and ensure compliance with relevant legislation.

Candidate Profile

• Masters degree in Human Resources Management or Industrial Psychology; Doctoral degree is advantageous.
• Professional registration with HPCSA or SABPP is advantageous.
• At least 12 years of experience in people management, with 10 years in engagement and communication, including 5 years at senior management level.
• Extensive knowledge of HR, communication, stakeholder engagement, and legal requirements in higher education.
• Experience managing GBV-related issues is essential.

Application Process

• Letter of motivation demonstrating how you meet the requirements.
• Contact details for at least 3 referees.
• Certified copies of certificates and ID; foreign qualifications require SAQA evaluation.

The university reserves the right not to appoint. Equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given to designated groups to promote demographic representation.

Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered.