Senior Director : University Relations (5-Year Contract, Renewable Subject To Performance)

University Of Johannesburg; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative institution seeks a Senior Director for University Relations to drive strategic communication and stakeholder engagement. This pivotal role involves developing comprehensive strategies that align with the university's mission and vision while fostering relationships with key influencers in government and media. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in public relations and stakeholder management, ensuring the university's voice is effectively represented in public discourse. Join a dynamic team dedicated to transformative change and societal impact, shaping a sustainable future through collaboration and innovation.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a postgraduate qualification with substantial academic stature.
• 10+ years in strategic public relations and stakeholder relations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive University Relations strategy.
• Advise senior leadership on public relations and communication issues.
• Build partnerships with government and higher education industry.

Skills

Strategic Public Relations

Stakeholder Relations

Communication Strategies

Media Relations

Community Engagement

Education

Postgraduate Qualification

Job description

SENIOR DIRECTOR : UNIVERSITY RELATIONS (5-YEAR CONTRACT, RENEWABLE SUBJECT TO PERFORMANCE)

Advert reference : uj_Advert
Status : Online
Apply by : 2 March

Position Summary

Job category : Education and Training
Campus : Auckland Park Kingsway Campus
Contract : Fixed Term Contract
EE position : EE
Level : Senior

Introduction

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a vibrant and cosmopolitan institution, guided by its bold UJ Strategy, which emphasizes Societal Impact and Sustainability, Global Footprint and Partnerships, and Technology for the Future.

Committed to transformative change, UJ's mission is "To transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collective and collaborative pursuit of knowledge." The University is guided by the vision of building "An international university of choice, anchored in Africa and the global south, dynamically shaping a sustainable future." The Senior Director reports to the Senior Executive Director.

This role serves as a member of the Senior Leadership Group and is critical in maintaining strategic relationships, developing, and executing comprehensive communication strategies that foster and maintain relationships with high-level stakeholders in government entities, media channels, industry leaders, and other key influencers.

The position is pivotal in ensuring the university's voice is effectively represented in public discourse and that it maintains positive relationships with its key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive University Relations strategy aligned with the university's mission, vision, and strategic goals.
• Advise senior leadership on public relations and communication issues, providing expert counsel on potential impacts to the university's reputation.
• Ensure the division remains at the forefront of media and technological advancements to maintain competitive and innovative broadcasting services.
• Build and maintain robust partnerships with government bodies, higher education industry partners, and non-profit organizations to advocate for supportive policies and initiatives.
• Oversee community engagement efforts, fostering positive relationships with community leaders, local organizations, and government entities.
• Develop and implement a proactive strategic communications strategy to generate positive coverage of university activities and achievements.
• Ensure the UJ Broadcasting unit adheres to relevant regulatory and legal requirements, including copyright, intellectual property rights, and industry standards.
• Ensure consistent application of branding guidelines across all communications, promotional materials, and digital platforms.
• Oversee internal communication efforts to keep staff and students informed about developments, priorities, and events.
• Manage talent within the division, ensuring talent management strategies are implemented.
• Foster a culture of good governance, customer service, honesty, integrity, and world-class delivery within the division.

Qualifications and Experience

• Substantive academic stature with relevant postgraduate qualification (or equivalent) as a minimum.
• At least ten years of proven experience in strategic public relations, stakeholder relations, communication, or marketing.
• Seven to ten years of experience in a senior leadership role, preferably in higher education.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful public relations strategies.
• Strong government and community partnership experience.
• Recommendations: Strong experience in media and government relations, understanding of South African protocols.

Terms of Appointment

The position of Senior Director: University Relations is a 5-year contract appointment, subject to a 12-month probation period, with an executive-level remuneration package. The appointment may be renewed based on performance. The normal retirement age is 65.

Application Process

To apply, send a detailed Curriculum Vitae, a letter of motivation outlining your vision and strategic direction, and contact details of at least three credible referees. Also attach your highest academic qualification, proof of registration with professional bodies, and, if applicable, a research output list or creative portfolio. Applications should be uploaded before or on the closing date. Candidates may undergo psychometric testing and other assessments.

The university is committed to equal employment opportunities, including for persons with disabilities and from disadvantaged groups. The university reserves the right not to make an appointment. If no response is received within 8 weeks post-closing, consider your application unsuccessful.