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    Academic Head of Department: UFS (Job ID: 6202) – (1893)

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    Academic Head of Department: (Contract appointment: 5 years, with the possibility of serving a second term) (Job ID: 6202) – (1893)

    The University of the Free State (UFS) is inviting applications for the role of Academic Head in the Department of English. This strategic academic leadership position is exclusively available to permanent academic staff within the department and offers an opportunity to shape the department’s direction, foster research excellence, and promote student engagement at all levels.

    Job Overview:

    • Job Title: Academic Head of Department – English (5-Year Contract Appointment)
    • Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
    • Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
    • Employment Type: 5-Year Contract (Renewable for a second term)
    • Closing Date: 31 July 2025
    • Assumption of Duties: 1 September 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter

    Responsibilities:

    • Provide academic and strategic leadership to the Department of English

    • Foster a collaborative and high-performing academic environment

    • Manage departmental planning, budgeting, communication, and operations

    • Enhance teaching and learning experiences at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels

    • Lead curriculum development and ensure module relevance

    • Promote and support research excellence and postgraduate student development

    • Engage with university and faculty structures including Senate and research committees

    • Support staff development, performance management, and mentoring

    • Lead recruitment efforts aligned with departmental strategy

    • Oversee financial planning and compliance with UFS policies

    • Facilitate external research funding applications

    Qualifications:

    • PhD in English (NQF Level 10)

    • Full-time, permanent academic staff member in the Department of English at UFS

    • Appointed at the rank of Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, or Professor

    Key Competencies:

    • Results Orientated: Reliable, adaptable, and able to manage change

    • Strategic Thinking: Multi-tasking, detail-oriented, and analytically skilled

    • Business Acumen: Compliant with institutional rules, proficient in MS Office

    • Leading: Motivated, energetic, and effective in directing others

    • Building Coalitions: Persuasive communicator with excellent interpersonal confidence

    Benefits:

    • A leadership allowance, determined by a transparent formula approved by UFS (value available upon request)

    • Strategic leadership role within one of South Africa’s leading humanities faculties

    • Opportunity to impact curriculum, research direction, and faculty development

    Application Process:


    Applications must be submitted online only via the UFS official vacancy portal:
    https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll

    Required Documents:

    • Detailed Curriculum Vitae

    • Certified copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications)

    • Copy of South African ID or valid passport (for non-SA citizens)

    Contact for Enquiries:
    051 401 7659
    SejanamaneP@ufs.ac.za / Recruit@ufs.ac.za
    (Additional assistance: 051 401 2979 / 9810 / 9813 / 9848)

    APPLY NOW

    Also see: Academic Head of Department: UFS (Job ID: 6203) – (1894)

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