Executive Director, Student Life & Wellbeing

University of KwaZulu-Natal; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) invites applications for the Executive Director: Student Services. The role oversees the full student life cycle, including pastoral care, residential life, and student wellbeing, and leads the SSD operations within UKZN’s senior leadership team.

The incumbent will drive student development, employability, and engagement across colleges, campuses and governance bodies, reporting to the Vice-Chancellor and Principal. Closing date 30 November 2026.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a discipline recognised by UKZN.
• Fifteen years relevant experience, eight at senior management level.
• Knowledge of student funding, financial aid, student discipline, student accommodation and student wellness programmes.
• Experience interacting with student governance in higher education and understanding student culture in a transforming institution.
• Leadership and interpersonal capabilities for institutional leadership.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full student life cycle across the University.
• Lead on the student pastoral journey including residential life, extracurricular engagement and student innovations.
• Drive student engagement, including housing, wellness, and student activities.
• Manage the Directorate of Students Services administration and reporting.
• Advocate for students and communicate with stakeholders to promote student success.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Team leadership

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Decision making

Inclusive leadership

Stakeholder relations

Public relations

Education

Master's degree

Job description

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) invites applications for the Executive Director: Student Services. The role oversees the full student life cycle, including pastoral care, residential life, and student wellbeing, and leads the SSD operations within UKZN’s senior leadership team.

The incumbent will drive student development, employability, and engagement across colleges, campuses and governance bodies, reporting to the Vice-Chancellor and Principal. Closing date 30 November 2026.