Programme Manager at Stellenbosch University

Duties/Pligte        

Regarding SARUA:

• Managing, administering and furthering the vision, mission and objectives of the SARUA Operations Office.
• Providing effective secretariat services and associated support services to the SARUA Board (e.g. elections, register).
• Organising the Association's Annual General Meeting (AGM).
• Ensuring SARUA's compliance with NPO reporting requirements to the South African Department of Social Development.
• Developing, reviewing, and managing contracts and agreements with SARUA member institutions, partners, service providers, and funders, including maintaining an effective stakeholder relations management system and an up-to-date SARUA project register.
• Fostering strong relationships with member institutions and key stakeholders to enhance.

Contract management:

• Overseeing contract execution, ensuring deliverables, timelines, and performance expectations are met, including regular reporting to the Executive Director and Board.

Finances:

• Developing SARUA's annual budget in collaboration with the Executive Director and relevant stakeholders, including providing regular financial reports to the Executive  Director and the Board.
• Ensuring adherence to SARUA's financial policies and procedures, including expenditure approvals and procurement processes.
• Arranging and coordinating SARUA's annual external audit.
• Collaborating with the Communications Manager to ensure that communication strategies align with SARUA's operational objectives and organisational goals.
• Collaborating with project managers/coordinators to ensure the successful planning, execution, and completion of SARUA's initiatives, aligned with strategic objectives.

Regarding ARUA:

• Coordinating internationalisation support to SU's engagement with ARUA and related activities in close collaboration with the Office of the DVC: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation.

Regarding AJ-INSPIRE (Africa Japan Universities Network):

• Coordinating SU's participation in the three research streams of this network in collaboration with the JICA expert.

Regarding EUGLOH (European Universities Alliance on Global Health):

• Coordinating SU's participation in the Alliance in collaboration with TIO (FMHS).
• Managing SU's role regarding the EUGLOH Hub for Sub-Sahara Africa in close liaison with the EUGLOH Secretariat based at Paris-Saclay University.
• Fostering and promoting entrepreneurial values and skills as an integral part of all programmes provided.
• Assisting with preparing quarterly and annual action plans and progress reports, financial reports and budgets.
• Assisting in developing and maintaining effective reporting systems, strong partner relationships and clear communication with stakeholders.

Job Requirements/Pos Vereistes        

• NQF 8 (honours degree / postgraduate diploma).
• At least three to five years' proven experience in operations or administrative management in the higher education sector.
• Strong financial acumen with a proven track record in budget development and financial analysis.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in social media platforms and experience in developing and implementing communication strategies.
• Excellent organisational and multitasking abilities, with the capacity to prioritise and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Familiarity with the higher education sector in at least one SADC country and a commitment to driving positive change in the region's academic landscape.
• The ability to manage resources efficiently in a project-driven environment.
• The ability to manage the impact of actions and decisions beyond the immediate unit.
• Experience in project management.
• The ability to work across organisational boundaries and contribute effectively to network-based structures.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Recommendation/Aanbeveling        
• Experience in working with senior university leadership and partners from other African countries.
• An existing network of appropriate contacts within government and industry.

Closing Date  22-May-2026