SENIOR DIRECTOR (P4) (DIVISION FOR GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT)

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is searching for an exceptionally motivated and energetic leader to take on the role of Senior Director for its Division for Global Engagement. This pivotal position reports directly to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation, guiding UJ’s international presence and initiatives.

About the University of Johannesburg (UJ)

UJ is a vibrant and cosmopolitan institution driven by its ambitious UJ Strategy 2035, focusing on Societal Impact and Sustainability, Global Footprint and Partnerships, and Technology for the Future. Our mission is to transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collaborative pursuit of knowledge. Our vision is to be an international university of choice, anchored in Africa and the global south, actively shaping a sustainable future.

About the Role

As the Senior Director for Global Engagement, you will provide strategic, operational, and administrative oversight to the Division. You will be responsible for fostering global excellence, enhancing UJ’s international reputation, and expanding its ability to prepare students for a globally interconnected world. This includes leading sub-divisions focused on international student recruitment, admissions, study abroad programmes, academic services, international fundraising, and global public relations.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership for UJ’s global engagement initiatives.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive global engagement strategy aligned with UJ’s Strategic Plan 2035.
• Plan and execute international academic and stakeholder engagements and delegations, ensuring diplomatic protocol.
• Manage administrative aspects including budgets, grants, and compliance with international laws.
• Lead recruitment efforts for talented international scholars and students, with a strong focus on Africa and the wider globe.
• Develop and actively drive marketing strategies for international branding, rankings, recruitment, and funding.
• Initiate and develop strategies for fundraising and third-stream income to support internationalisation.
• Identify and pursue external research funding from international sources.
• Respond to internationalisation-related policy documents and draft proposals/reports.
• Support international students with academic administration, admissions, visa assistance, and cultural integration.
• Drive the university’s international portrayal and marketing through various media and research outputs.
• Ensure compliance with international regulations and immigration policies.
• Effectively manage the division’s finances and resources.
• Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with international universities and organisations.
• Oversee staff development, management, retention, and recruitment within the division.
• Ensure a collegial and supportive working environment.

Minimum Requirements

• A PhD Degree (NQF 10) or equivalent.
• Demonstrated substantive and acknowledged academic stature.
• A minimum of 10 years of senior executive management experience at an academic institution or a division of similar size and complexity.
• Profound knowledge, insight, and vision of the Higher Education sector – nationally, regionally, and internationally.
• Familiarity with international regulations, immigration policies, and best practices in higher education internationalisation.
• Established and valuable international networks, combined with outstanding stewardship, diplomatic, and effective communication skills.
• Proven ability to maintain and strengthen relationships with national and international stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising from external sources.
• Capacity for strategic leadership and operational excellence within a complex portfolio.
• Proven resource, strategic, and people management skills, with exceptional ability to function under pressure.

Required Competencies (Technical & Behavioural)

• Ability to professionally manage, motivate, and display individual leadership.
• A self-driven leader with a strong understanding of protocol and acting as an international ambassador.
• Commitment to ensuring the highest level of portfolio governance, efficient administration, and systems functioning.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong networks.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to promote excellence and manage risks effectively.
• Capacity to initiate and manage transformation and change.
• Exceptional communication skills.
• Exemplary personal qualities including integrity, sound judgment, energy, passion, and constructive interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its impact on higher education.
• Commitment to UJ’s values and ability to effectively represent them.

Recommendations

• Professional registration with a relevant South African statutory body and/or international association.
• Experience in a University or comparable environment at both operational and strategic levels.
• Experience in process modernisation and transformation.

Terms of Appointment

• This is a permanent appointment, subject to a compulsory 12-month probation period.
• Remuneration and benefits package will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• The normal retirement age for members of the Senior Leadership Group is 65.

How to Apply

To apply for this prestigious position, please submit the following documents:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A letter of motivation outlining your vision and strategic direction for this role.
• The names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of at least three traceable and credible referees.
• A copy of your highest academic qualification.
• Proof of registration with any professional bodies you belong to (if applicable).

Applications should be submitted via the UJ website: https://jobs.uj.ac.za/ or emailed directly to Ms Ayanda Gcabashe at [email protected].

Closing Date: 9 November 2025

Important Notes for Applicants

Please be aware of the following:

• National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO): In accordance with recent amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2021 (Act 13 of 2021), UJ is legally obligated to assess all prospective employees against the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO). The outcome of this assessment may impact your employment with the University. For more information, please visit: Justice/Criminal/NRSO.
• Candidates may be subjected to appropriate psychometric testing and other selection instruments.
• UJ is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and individuals from historically disadvantaged groups.
• The University reserves the right not to make an appointment to advertised positions, as necessitated by operational requirements.
• If you do not receive a response from the University within 8 weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
• For technical support or assistance with the UJ e-recruitment website, please contact PNET on 0861 227337/010 140 3099 or email [email protected].