Project Administrator at Rhodes University

Remuneration per annum (Grade 10):

• Total Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):  R 499,206.00

The Department

• The NRF–SARChI Research Chair in Sustainable Rural Futures at Rhodes University drives an interdisciplinary programme dedicated to advancing rigorous, decolonial research on the complex challenges facing rural societies in Africa. The Chair focuses on issues such as poverty and inequality, land tenure and dispossession, extractive development, climate vulnerability, agrarian change, and rural–urban dynamics, with a strong emphasis on social and ecological justice.
• The programme seeks to generate impactful knowledge that informs policy and contributes to more equitable and sustainable rural futures. It also prioritises the development of innovative analytical approaches and the training of the next generation of scholars equipped to address rural development challenges in Africa.
• To support these objectives, the Chair seeks to appoint a dynamic and energetic Project Administrator. The successful candidate will play a critical role in coordinating research activities, managing financial and operational processes, and overseeing day-to-day administration. This position is central to ensuring the effective implementation of the programme and the achievement of its strategic goals.

Main Objectives

• To provide effective and efficient financial and administrative control and reporting for the designated research group (NRF SARChI Chair) per the University’s and funders’ policies and procedures, and to produce accurate and timeous financial reports prepared per university and funders’ guidelines.
• Additionally, to provide efficient and practical support to a large research group working in a socially sensitive research area, including several academics, researchers, post-docs, and postgraduate students.

The Requirements

Grade 12 with approximately four years of relevant experience. A post-matric qualification will be advantageous. The required experience should include:

• Previous experience which demonstrates a thorough understanding of financial management and accounting principles, with the ability to consolidate sets of accounts in the required format/s in an electronic environment
• The ability to investigate and reconcile multiple accounts is essential
• Previous experience in working within a computerised accounting environment and having worked with Excel at an intermediate to advanced level
• Previous experience in working with word processing (including being able to create and maintain databases), e-mail and the Internet
• Ability to set up and maintain filing and administrative systems.
• Previous experience in the use of social media for marketing purposes, updating and maintaining websites, and creating posters would be advantageous.
• Personal Assistance experience and/or media management would be an advantage.
• Ability to organise functions and events.

Application Process

• It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -

• Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
• Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job

Closing Date: 9 September 2026