Senior Assistant Officer (Post Level 12) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

General Administrative Support 

• Provide efficient and effective administrative support to the Director and division coordinators of the Free State Centre for Human Rights (FSCHR). 
• Serve as receptionist (both for telephone calls and physical visitors to the Centre).

Event Planning and Coordination 

• Coordinate and administer departmental events, seminars, workshops, and conferences.  
• Liaise with internal units and external service providers to ensure successful event delivery.  
• Manage event logistics, including venues, catering, travel arrangements, and materials.  
• Support post-event reporting and evaluation processes.

Marketing and Communication 

• Support the implementation of departmental marketing and communication strategies.  
• Assist with the development and dissemination of promotional materials.  
• Maintain and update digital platforms, including websites and social media channels.  
• Contribute to enhancing the visibility and reputation of the Centre.

Office and Operational Management 

• Oversee daily office operations to ensure an efficient and professional working environment.  
• Manage procurement processes in accordance with university policies.  
• Monitor office supplies, equipment, and maintenance requirements.  
• Ensure compliance with institutional procedures and administrative systems.

Staff Administration 

• Provide administrative support related to human resource processes within the department.  
• Maintain staff records, including leave, attendance, and personnel documentation.  
• Support onboarding processes for new staff members.  
• Assist with internal coordination and communication within the team.

Stakeholder Engagement 

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.  
• Serve as a liaison between the department and relevant university structures.

Additional Duties 

• Provide administrative support for projects and strategic initiatives.  
• Perform any other duties as delegated by the line manager in support of departmental objectives. 

Inherent requirements:

• Grade 12 or National Vocational Certificate on NQF Level 4. 
• A minimum of one (1) year’s relevant experience in an administrative or coordination role.
• Proven experience in event planning and coordination.  

Recommendations:

• Experience within a higher education environment.
• Experience in marketing, social media management, or communications.  
• Familiarity with administrative systems and processes within the University of the Free State.  
• Project management experience or training.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

Competencies
Required competencies:
Results Orientated:

• The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
• The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.

Strategic Thinking:

• The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
• The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.

Business Acumen:

• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
• Proficient in using MS Office.

Leading:

• The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
• The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

Building Coalitions:

• The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
• The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Assumption of duties:

1 October 2026 or as soon as possible.

Closing date:
20 July 2026