Director: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) (P05) at Sol Plaatje University

Minium requirements 

• A postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8) in ICT, Information Systems, or Management.
• 8-10 years’ experience in managing ICT within complex organisational environments.
• At least 5 years’ experience at a senior management level, with accountability for ICT functions or portfolios.

The following professional certifications are required:

• ITIL
• COBIT
• PRINCE2 / PMP
• TOGAF
• Proven experience in leading ICT operations, including service delivery, infrastructure management, and the delivery of reliable, business-aligned ICT services.
• Demonstrated experience in cybersecurity and ICT risk management, including:
• Identification, assessment, and mitigation of ICT-related risks,
• Implementation of appropriate security controls and governance measures.
• Oversight of data protection, regulatory compliance, and business continuity planning.
• Demonstrated experience in the development and implementation of ICT strategy and roadmaps, aligned to organisational objectives.
• Experience in vendor, contract, and service provider management, including procurement processes, service level management, and performance monitoring.
• Experience in establishing or enhancing ICT governance frameworks, policies, standards, and service management practices (e.g. ITIL-aligned environments).
• Experience in driving improvements in ICT environments, including stabilisation, service improvement, or operational transformation initiatives.
• Experience working within higher education, or similarly complex institutional environments, will be advantageous
• Experience in supporting digital enablement of teaching, learning, research, or business operations will be advantageous.

Recommended Requirements   

• A relevant master’s degree (NQF Level 9) in ICT, Computer Science, Information Systems, or Engineering ICT/Computer/Electrical, or equivalent qualification.

Job functions

Strategic Leadership

• Develop, implement, and maintain an ICT strategy and roadmap aligned to institutional priorities
• Drive digital enablement across teaching, learning, research, and operations
• Provide strategic advice to Executive Management on ICT risks, investments, and innovation
• Guide the adoption of secure, sustainable, and cost-effective technologies

ICT Service Delivery & Operations

• Ensure reliable, secure, and high-performing ICT service delivery
• Implement and manage ICT service management practices (incident, problem, change, and request management)
• Monitor service levels, performance metrics, and user experience
• Drive continuous service improvement and operational efficiency

Infrastructure & Systems Management

• Oversee enterprise systems, networks, cloud services, and end-user computing
• Ensure availability, scalability, performance, and resilience of ICT services
• Implement infrastructure lifecycle management and optimisation practices
• Maintain enterprise architecture standards to support integration and scalability

Governance, Cybersecurity & ICT Risk Management

• Establish and maintain ICT governance frameworks, policies, and standards
• Manage ICT risks, including cybersecurity, data protection, and business continuity
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and governance frameworks
• Implement and monitor security controls and risk mitigation measures

Research, Teaching and Learning Enablement

• Support digital enablement of research through data platforms and research systems
• Support teaching and learning technologies, including learning management systems
• Align ICT services with academic and research needs
• Promote the use of data and analytics for decision-making

Financial & Resource Management

• Develop and manage the ICT budget (OPEX and CAPEX)
• Oversee ICT procurement and ensure compliance with SCM processes
• Manage vendors, contracts, and service level agreements (SLAs)
• Optimise the use of internal resources, managed services, and specialist skills

People Management and Capability Development

• Lead and manage ICT teams to ensure effective service delivery
• Build internal capability through mentoring, coaching, and skills development
• Implement performance management and workforce planning practices
• Foster a culture of service excellence and continuous improvement

Stakeholder Engagement & Institutional Alignment

• Engage with stakeholders to understand ICT needs and priorities
• Align ICT services with institutional objectives
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration across the University
• Support user adoption, innovation, and service improvement initiatives