Head of Computer Science

University of Fort Hare; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected private higher education institution in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a dynamic Head of Computer Science. The role involves providing leadership, overseeing teaching strategies, and engaging with industry stakeholders. A Master’s degree in IT or Computer Science and significant teaching experience are required. This is a full-time position with a monthly salary offer of R46,000, with working hours from Monday to Friday.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of teaching experience in higher education.
• 2 years of academic or team management experience.
• Familiarity with the regulatory landscape in South African higher education.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic leadership for Computer Science programmes.
• Manage lecturer performance and development.
• Engage with industry stakeholders for student placements.

Skills

Academic leadership

Teaching and learning strategies

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Master’s Degree in Information Technology or Computer Science

Job description

46,000 Monthly Cost To Company (Market related)

An exciting opportunity exists for a dynamic and experienced academic leader to take on the role of Head of Computer Science at a respected private higher education institution in Pietermaritzburg.

As part of a nationally recognised educational brand, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the leadership, academic quality, and operational excellence of the School of Computer Science at campus level.

Key Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

Academic Leadership & Management

• Provide strategic and academic leadership for all Computer Science programmes on campus.
• Oversee teaching and learning strategies, academic results analysis, and interventions for at-risk students.
• Manage lecturer performance and development, in collaboration with the Teaching and Learning Specialist.
• Support programme development, material creation, and assessments as part of a central academic team.
• Ensure regulatory and institutional academic compliance.

Operational & Campus Support

• Collaborate closely with the campus and national academic teams to ensure effective delivery and continuous improvement of the Computer Science curriculum.
• Contribute to campus marketing and student recruitment through subject matter expertise.
• Lead the appointment and performance management of academic staff in the School.

Industry Engagement

• Establish and nurture relationships with industry stakeholders to support student placements, internships, bursaries, and academic relevance.
• Represent the institution on external committees and professional boards.
• Organise and participate in events that foster industry-academic collaboration.

Lecturing & Supervision

• Lecture up to 100 hours or two modules per semester, including possible Honours supervision.
• Promote research output and scholarly activity within the School and broader academic community.

Minimum Requirements:

Education:

• Master’s Degree or equivalent (NQF Level 9) in Information Technology or Computer Science.
• Specialisation in Programming is advantageous.

Experience:

• At least 3–5 years of teaching experience, preferably in a higher education environment.
• Minimum 2 years of academic or team management experience.
• Familiarity with the regulatory landscape in South African higher education.

Competencies:

• Proven academic leadership and people management skills.
• Advanced teaching and learning capabilities.
• Strong organisational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving academic environment.

Working Hours:

Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 17:00

Please note that only suitable candidates will be contacted.