Academic Head of Department- University of the Free State (5years)
Position Information
- Job Title: Academic Head of Department (Job ID: 6522)
- Institution: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Faculty: Faculty of Humanities
- Department: Philosophy and Classics
- Campus: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein, Free State
- Employment Type: Contract
- Contract Duration: 5 years (with the possibility of reappointment based on performance)
- Occupational Level: Temporary
- Closing Date: 14 July 2026
- Starting Date: 1 August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
Job Purpose
The Academic Head of Department (AHD) will provide strategic academic, administrative, financial, and research leadership within the Department of Philosophy and Classics. The successful candidate will oversee teaching and learning, research excellence, staff development, financial management, and departmental operations while contributing to the overall leadership of the Faculty of Humanities.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic academic leadership and guide the department’s long-term vision.
- Lead the planning and implementation of teaching, learning, and research strategies.
- Promote excellence in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.
- Ensure curriculum relevance and continuous programme development.
- Foster a strong research culture and support staff in achieving research excellence.
- Mentor academic staff and support career development.
- Encourage postgraduate student recruitment and research participation.
- Manage departmental finances, including budgeting and resource allocation.
- Oversee departmental administration and ensure compliance with university policies.
- Create a collaborative, inclusive, and productive working environment.
- Represent the department in faculty and university management structures.
- Participate in Senate, faculty committees, and strategic planning initiatives.
- Manage staff performance, recruitment, and succession planning.
- Promote effective communication between the department and university management.
- Encourage staff to secure external research funding and grants.
- Ensure quality academic support and advising for students.
- Monitor adherence to academic regulations and ethical research practices.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Philosophy or a related field.
- A permanent appointment as a Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, or Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Classics at the University of the Free State.
Required Competencies
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Strategic planning and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Negotiation and stakeholder management abilities.
- Financial management and budgeting skills.
- Ability to mentor and motivate academic staff.
- Strong organisational and administrative skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Ability to work under pressure and achieve strategic objectives.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications.
- SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications (where applicable).
- Copy of South African ID or passport (for foreign nationals).
Important Notes
- Only full-time permanent academic staff currently employed in the Department of Philosophy and Classics at the University of the Free State are eligible to apply.
- Applications must be submitted through the official UFS online recruitment system.
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- The University reserves the right not to fill the position.