Senior Assistant Director: Project Management at University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• The  will be responsible for rendering a project‑driven facilities planning and construction management function on both a strategic and operational level in the Department of Facilities Management, ensuring that all work directly supports the mission of the University through optimal project delivery;
• The incumbent will manage, coordinate, and deliver major construction, renovation, renewal, and infrastructure projects across the University of Pretoria’s multi‑campus higher‑education environment;
• The incumbent will further be responsible for the planning, design coordination, scheduling, contract administration, and execution of multidisciplinary building and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance, performance, and protection of the University’s built heritage. Emphasis is placed on strong project management capability and the ability to lead complex projects to completion;
• The incumbent will lead a team of Project Managers, overseeing performance, mentoring, work allocation, and development, while setting project‑delivery standards and ensuring consistent, excellent project management practices.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:  

• A relevant 4-year or Honours degree in the Built Environment, Project Management, Engineering, or a related field, equivalent to NQF Level 8;
• Minimum 6 years’ experience in the following , (of which 2 years in management): 
  • Project management experience within the construction industry;
  • Staff and Stakeholder management experience.
• Registration with a relevant professional council.
• A valid driver’s license.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES): 

• Knowledge of building practices, systems, and construction;
• Knowledge of laws and regulations related to the built environment;
• Advanced knowledge of building contracts, accounting, budgeting, and administration;
• Proficient computer literacy (MS Office);
• Ability to convey information clearly and concisely to groups or individuals, either verbally or in writing, to ensure understanding;
• Ability to confer with others to reach resolutions and explore alternatives to achieve outcomes that gain support and acceptance from all parties;
• Ability to manage difficult and complex situations to achieve resolution or adherence to laws and/or regulations, using appropriate interpersonal skills to reduce tension and resolve conflict;
• Skill and ability in coordinating, facilitating, and participating collaboratively to complete tasks or assignments;
• Ability to establish expectations and provide clear direction to meet goals and objectives of ongoing work for a team;
• Ability to maintain social, ethical, and organizational norms, and firmly adhere to codes of conduct and ethical principles;
• Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships to encourage and support communication and teamwork.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:  

• Post graduate qualification in the Built Environment;
• Postgraduate management qualification or further training (e.g., MBA, MBL, or MSc);
• At least 6 years’ experience in an institute of higher education.

CLOSING DATE: 19 February 2026.