Manager: Secretariat and Governance

Rhodes University; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 693 000 - 903 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent South African university is seeking a Manager for the Secretariat and Governance. This role involves developing systems for efficient administrative and secretariat support services. The ideal candidate should hold a relevant NQF Level 7 qualification and have 3-4 years of related experience, particularly in a university setting. Strong communication skills and experience managing committees are essential. Competitive compensation offered.

Qualifications

• Approximately 3-4 years relevant experience.
• Track record of continuous improvement.
• Previous experience in a Secretariat and Governance function.

Responsibilities

• Develop systems for efficient administrative support.
• Schedule and organize meetings with committees.
• Prepare agendas and take minutes of meetings.

Skills

Excellent English language skills in writing reports

Organisational and planning skills

Problem-solving skills

Time-management skills

Experience in using technology for efficiencies

Education

Relevant NQF Level 7 Qualification

Job description

Manager: Secretariat and Governance (Grade 15)

The Registrar's Division invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

To strategically develop systems and processes in order to ensure the provision of an efficient, professional and quality administrative and secretariat support services to University Committees and governance structures of the University as required.

The Requirements

Any relevant NQF Level 7 Qualification (preferably in Administration) plus approximately 3-4 years’ relevant experience where such experience includes:

• Excellent English language skills in writing succinct and synthesized reports and minutes
• Previous experience in a Secretariat and Governance function, preferably within a Higher Education environment.
• Previous experience working with committees including the scheduling and organizing meetings and a track record of doing so efficiently; the preparation of agendas for meetings; taking minutes of meetings; meeting deadlines with a track record of doing so.
• Previous administrative experience within a computerised administration environment which includes good organisational and planning skills as well as problem-solving and time-management skills.
• Experience working with large volumes of work.
• Track record of using technology to create efficiencies and improve service.
• Track record of continuous improvement.
• Ability to lead a team and previous supervision/management experience of at least three years.
• Experience in website content management is an advantage.
• Excellent typing skills, including typing draft minutes/notes in a meeting.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the Job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The Following Documents Are Required

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following:
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand‑written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 7266.

Selection Process (provisional Date, Subject To Change)

• Short‑listing meeting dates to be confirmed.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration Per Annum (Grade 15)

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R693 760

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R902 270

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed‑term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 18 November 2025

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence, Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of under‑represented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

These Values Are

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision‑making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.