Friday, November 7

    Head of Department: (Contract appointment: 5 years, with the possibility of serving a second term): Department of Psychology (Job ID 6205) – (1895)

    The University of the Free State (UFS) is seeking a visionary and strategic Academic Head for its Department of Psychology. This senior academic leadership position plays a vital role in advancing the department’s academic excellence, research initiatives, and student engagement. The role is open exclusively to permanent academic staff within UFS’s Department of Psychology.

    Job Overview:

    • Job Title: Head of Department: Department of Psychology (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: 01 September 2025

    Responsibilities:

    • Provide leadership and shape the department’s vision and strategic direction

    • Promote a collaborative, motivating, and research-driven departmental culture

    • Ensure excellence in teaching, learning, and curriculum development

    • Implement departmental strategies aligned with UFS and Faculty of Humanities goals

    • Mentor staff, manage performance, and develop career progression plans

    • Represent the department in university structures and external engagements

    • Oversee planning, budgeting, and resource allocation

    • Foster student engagement and provide support

    • Lead recruitment, development, and retention of top talent

    • Promote external funding applications and support output

    Qualifications:

    • PhD in Psychology (NQF Level 10)

    • Full-time, permanent staff member within the UFS Department of Psychology

    • Registered Psychologist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (proof required)

    Key Competencies:

    • Strong leadership and strategic thinking

    • Effective communicator and team collaborator

    • Research-oriented and results-driven

    • High levels of personal motivation and adaptability

    • Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills

    Benefits:

    • An additional allowance based on a transparent formula approved by UFS (value available upon request)

    • Opportunity to shape the strategic direction of a leading department

    • Career development in university leadership structures

    Application Process:


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

    Required Documents:

    • Detailed Curriculum Vitae

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

    • Copy of South African ID or valid passport (for foreign nationals)

    • Proof of registration with the HPCSA

    Contact for Enquiries:


    051 401 9813
    PhokaR@ufs.ac.za
    (Or call 051 401 2979 / 9810 / 9814 / 9848 for additional assistance)

    APPLY NOW:

    Also see: SAQA Qualification Verification Guide

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