Dean: Student Affairs- Central University of Technology, Free State (5years)
Job Details
Job Title: Dean: Student Affairs (P4)
Company: Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT)
Division: Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal
Business Unit: Student Affairs
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
Job Reference: 18
Employment Type: Five-year fixed-term Support Services contract
Minimum Experience Level: Director
Industry: Higher Education
Functional Area: Education
Posted Date: 16 October 2026
Closing Date: 30 October 2026
Salary: R1,873,216 per annum (Total Cost to Company)
Job Description
The Central University of Technology (CUT) is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to serve as Dean of Student Affairs. The successful candidate will provide leadership and direction to the Student Affairs portfolio, ensuring that student services support the university’s commitment to student-centredness and its 2030 strategic vision.
The Dean will oversee the integrated operations of the Wellness Centre, Operational Sport, Residences, and Governance and Student Life units. The role requires a leader who can develop policies, manage resources, strengthen relationships between students and university management, and ensure that student services operate effectively in accordance with institutional policies and procedures.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Developing policies, strategic plans, and operational priorities for the Student Affairs portfolio.
Providing strategic leadership and oversight to the following units:
Wellness Centre
Operational Sport
Residences
Governance and Student Life
Managing human, financial, and infrastructure resources effectively.
Promoting a culture of efficiency, accountability, continuous learning, and effective service delivery.
Establishing and maintaining effective data stewardship and knowledge management systems.
Building and maintaining productive relationships between university management and students.
Representing the Student Affairs portfolio at internal university forums and external stakeholder engagements.
Ensuring that student services align with institutional policies, procedures, and strategic objectives.
Supporting effective planning, monitoring, reporting, and decision-making across the portfolio.
Minimum Requirements and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
Educational Qualifications
– A Master’s degree, such as an MTech, Master’s degree at NQF Level 9, or an equivalent qualification in Social Sciences or Education.
Work Experience
At least eight years of relevant professional experience.
A minimum of five years in a leadership role, preferably within a higher education environment.
Knowledge of student services, including wellness, residence management, sport, and student governance.
Demonstrated experience in strategy development, policy formulation, and business process development.
Proven ability to facilitate productive relationships between university management and students.
Knowledge and Skills
Understanding of higher education institutional systems and structures.
Knowledge of the South African higher education policy framework and relevant legislation, including the Higher Education Act 101 of 1997.
Strong project management and report-writing skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, negotiation, and bargaining skills.
Conflict resolution, peace-making, and facilitation skills.
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel at intermediate level.
Ability to use computer applications for presentations, reporting, data management, and knowledge management.
Desired Qualifications and Experience
The following will be advantageous:
A SAQA-approved doctorate-level qualification, such as a DTech, PhD, DEd, NQF Level 10 qualification, or equivalent in Social Sciences or Education.
At least ten years of relevant professional experience.
A minimum of five years in a leadership position, preferably overseeing Student Affairs within a higher education institution.
Experience in fundraising and leveraging resources to support strategic institutional objectives.