Student Success Coach

Nelson Mandela University; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in South Africa, located in Gqeberha, seeks a dedicated individual for student success coaching. The role involves engaging students in their academic journeys, developing personalized success plans, and conducting research. Required qualifications include a four-year degree in psychology, social work, or education, along with at least 3 years of relevant experience. The university prioritizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring process, making this an excellent opportunity for qualified candidates. Applications close on 26 September 2025.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years' experience in coaching or advising diverse students.
• Experience in case management and ethical practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide student success coaching.
• Collaborate internally and externally.
• Conduct research and develop policies.

Skills

Knowledge of higher education trends

Communication and interpersonal skills

Critical thinking and problem-solving

Research and data analysis skills

Coaching/advising knowledge

Education

Four-year professional degree in psychology, social work, or education

Professional registration as Psychologist, Registered Counsellor, etc.

Job description

Overview

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB: Is to develop a high impact connection with a diverse student body on their journey through university, by actively and intentionally engaging them in developing a personalised success plan through goal-directed and collaborative learning experiences. Student success coaching helps create a sense of belonging and student ownership that aims to increase retention, persistence and graduation, enabling students to change their world.

Key Responsibilities

• Student Success coaching
• Internal and external collaboration and communication
• Research
• Policy and procedure development and implementation
• Development and Training

Core Competencies

• Knowledge of higher education trends, both nationally and internationally with a focus on student success, and student development
• Knowledge of university processes, rules and resources and national legislation related to higher education
• Communication, Interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
• Critical thinking, Problem solving and Decision-making skills
• Presentation and information dissemination skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of students, academics, professional and administrative staff
• Research knowledge and basic data analysis skills
• Student and learning development knowledge and theories as well as student success strategies

• Experience in case management embedded in ethical and professional practices
• Organisational, technological and administrative skills
• Coaching/advising knowledge or training or experience

Requirements

Given the sensitive nature of working with vulnerable students, in order to be considered for appointment to this post, candidates should have complied with the following requirements:

The minimum qualification required is a four-year professional degree in psychology, social work, or education with an emphasis on psycho-social and developmental/educational support;

• Professional registration as a Psychologist, Registered Counsellor, Social Worker, Educational Psychologist or as an Educator with at least an honours in educational psychology or inclusive education; and
• At least 3 years' experience in coaching, advising or teaching diverse students related to enhancing academic success and retention in a higher education setting

Disclaimer: Nelson Mandela University is a designated employer committed to pursuing excellence, diversity, inclusion, and redress in achieving its employment equity targets. Preference will be given to suitably qualified (Race and Gender) candidates in accordance with the University\'s employment equity targets.

No applications will be accepted after the closing date Friday, 26 September 2025.