Academic Head of Department: Practical and Missional Theology (5years)
Job Details
- Position: Academic Head of Department (AHD): Practical and Missional Theology
- Job ID: 6560
- Organisation: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Faculty: Faculty of Theology and Religion
- Department: Practical and Missional Theology
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein, Free State
- Contract: Five-year contract
- Possibility of Reappointment: Yes, for a further term
- Occupational Level: Temporary
- Assumption of Duty: 1 January 2027
- Closing Date: 18 August 2026
- Allowance: Calculated according to a UFS-approved formula; value available on request
Important Eligibility Notice
Only full-time, permanent academic personnel from the Department of Practical and Missional Theology at the University of the Free State will be considered for this position.
Applicants must therefore already be appointed within the department as permanent academic staff at the required academic level.
Job Overview
The University of the Free State is seeking an experienced academic leader to serve as Academic Head of Department in the Department of Practical and Missional Theology.
The AHD will provide strategic academic and operational leadership, drive the department’s teaching and research agenda, support staff development, strengthen postgraduate education and help position the department as a leader in its field.
The successful candidate will also contribute to Faculty and University leadership structures while fostering a collaborative, research-driven and academically excellent environment.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Leadership
- Develop and implement strategies to position the department as a leader in its field.
- Direct academic debate within the department.
- Influence departmental culture and climate.
- Shape the future strategic direction of the department.
- Contribute to overall Faculty leadership.
- Lead planning, coordination and execution of departmental activities.
- Mentor, motivate and support academic staff.
- Promote collaboration among staff.
- Manage internal and external communication.
- Represent the department in Faculty and University structures.
Teaching & Learning
The AHD will ensure:
- High-quality, research-informed teaching and learning.
- Relevant content, materials and teaching approaches across modules.
- Improved student experiences and academic engagement.
- Appropriate rules and processes for high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
- Compliance with UFS, Faculty and departmental policies.
- Quality and timely feedback on student work.
- Effective academic advice and support for students.
- Development of new learning programmes to strengthen the department’s academic position.
Research
- Develop and maintain a visionary departmental research strategy.
- Create an environment that promotes research and a strong culture of inquiry.
- Ensure academic staff participate in quality, discipline-specific research.
- Recruit postgraduate students to strengthen the department’s research base.
- Ensure compliance with research ethics requirements.
- Support senior academics in pursuing NRF ratings.
- Work with the Faculty Research Committee and UFS Directorate of Research Development to secure sustainable research funding.
- Encourage staff to apply for external research grants.
Staff Development & Performance
- Develop fair and reasonable staff workload plans.
- Establish appropriate career development pathways for staff.
- Implement mentoring interventions where required.
- Manage staff performance in accordance with UFS policies.
- Participate in recruitment and selection when vacancies or strategic needs arise.
- Create a scholarship-friendly departmental environment.
- Plan and oversee relevant staff development initiatives.
Financial Management
The AHD will have ultimate responsibility for departmental financial management, including:
- Annual budgeting.
- Financial planning.
- Allocation of funds.
- Financial control.
- Compliance with UFS financial policies and procedures.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A PhD on NQF Level 10 in Practical and/or Missional Theology or a related field.
- An existing appointment at the University of the Free State’s Department of Practical and Missional Theology as a full-time, permanent Associate Professor or higher.
Key Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to set high standards and challenging goals.
- Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.
Strategic Thinking
- Creative and open-minded approach to workplace challenges.
- Strong analytical and logical problem-solving skills.
Business Acumen
- Ability to follow institutional rules and regulations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leading
- High levels of motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to lead, take charge and provide direction.
Building Coalitions
- Strong negotiation, influencing and persuasion skills.
- Ability to establish effective professional relationships.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed CV.
- Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications.
- SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications, where applicable.
- Copy of ID or passport.