Strategic Coordination Executive

University of the Western Cape; Bellville; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of the Western Cape seeks an Executive Officer: Strategic Coordination on a fixed‑term four‑year contract. You will provide high‑level strategic and operational support, translating strategy into coordinated action and enabling timely executive decisions across governance structures.

You will lead cross‑functional coordination, oversee major strategic projects, and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders to advance institutional priorities and performance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in management, with at least 5 years in senior strategic leadership.
• Experience in strategic planning, governance, and project oversight.
• Proven ability to coordinate cross-functional priorities and handle complex matters.
• Strong track record in monitoring performance and ensuring accountability.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic advisory support to the Rector and Vice-Chancellor on priorities.
• Coordinate implementation of Institutional strategy with plans and targets.
• Facilitate executive coordination across Rectorate, portfolios and leadership structures.
• Oversee strategic projects, monitor progress and report on deliverables.
• Coordinate governance processes and prepare strategic submissions and reports.
• Oversee executive correspondence and timely, appropriate communications.
• Support cross‑portfolio collaboration, risk management and policy compliance.
• Build strategic relationships with government and higher education partners.
• Coordinate high‑level stakeholder engagements on behalf of the Rector.
• Provide strategic communication support to protect institutional reputation.
• Oversee executive committee processes and accountability for outcomes.
• Coordinate sensitive institutional matters with due process and consultation.
• Support partnerships and resource mobilisation aligned with priorities.
• Manage the Office of the Rector and Vice-Chancellor, including operations and records.
• Coordinate high‑level institutional events and leadership engagements.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Executive coordination

Stakeholder engagement

Governance knowledge

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Communication skills

Job description

The University of the Western Cape seeks an Executive Officer: Strategic Coordination on a fixed‑term four‑year contract. You will provide high‑level strategic and operational support, translating strategy into coordinated action and enabling timely executive decisions across governance structures.

You will lead cross‑functional coordination, oversee major strategic projects, and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders to advance institutional priorities and performance.