Chief Operating Officer (COO) (Peromnes Level 3) (Contract appointment: Five years, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term) (Job ID 5621) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities

• Exercise executive oversight of professional support departments such as Human Resources, University
• Estates, Protection Services, Information, Communication and Technology Services and the related operations functions of the South, Qwaqwa and Bloemfontein campuses.
• Develop, implement and monitor strategic and operational plans in respect of this portfolio.
• Promote integrated administration and process management that supports the attainment of Vision 130.
• Oversee relevant policy development and implementation.
• Assist the Vice Chancellor and Principal in constituting an effective two-way interface between the governance functions of the Council and the executive management of the institution.
• Line manage and lead senior staff, including senior directors.
• Foster collegial and participatory internal governance through the committee system.
• Strengthen the UFS strategy to ensure an ethical and value-driven organisation by serving on and engaging in campus-wide forums relating to ethics and values, among other things.
• Engage with recognised employee unions on a regular basis to achieve a common and balanced understanding of university matters.
• Facilitate collaboration between faculties and support departments.
• Be accountable for cross-functional strategic projects.

Inherent requirements

• A master’s degree on NQF Level 9 or a professional equivalent.
• A minimum of ten years’ relevant experience in management positions, of which at least five years should be at a senior level reporting to a Vice-Chancellor, Chief Executive Officer or President of a large and diverse organisation.
• A demonstrated track record managing an equally complex portfolio and running a large operation with experience in human resource management, information and communication technologies and facilities management.
• A track record of advancing transformation in the workplace.

Recommendations

• A management qualification.
• Five years’ experience in a university or equivalent setting.
• An understanding of developments in the higher-education arena nationally.
• Project management skills.
• A PhD degree