Executive Director: Institutional Advancement, Communication and Student Recruitment (post level 3) (Contract appointment: five years, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term) (Job ID: 6211) – (1898)
The University of the Free State (UFS) is one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected higher education institutions, known for academic excellence, social justice, and its commitment to being a globally competitive, research-led institution. UFS seeks to inspire transformation in higher education through strategic innovation, community engagement, and inclusive development.
Job Overview:
- Job Title: Executive Director: Institutional Advancement, Communication and Student Recruitment
- Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
- Employment Type: Contract (5 years, with potential for renewal)
- Closing Date: 4 August 2025
- Assumption of Duty: 1 January 2026
- Job ID: 6211
Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Fundraising:
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Lead international and local fundraising campaigns for scholarships, infrastructure, and research.
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Build relationships with global development agencies, embassies, corporations, and multilateral partners.
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Create a culture of philanthropy and manage donor relations, proposals, reports, and ethical compliance.
Alumni Engagement & Network Development:
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Implement alumni engagement strategies.
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Expand alumni chapters and promote mentorship, volunteering, and donor opportunities.
Communication, Marketing & Branding:
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Oversee strategic communications and marketing campaigns to enhance UFS visibility.
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Promote brand consistency and develop engaging content for all platforms.
Student Recruitment:
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Guide recruitment strategy aligned with enrolment and transformation goals.
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Integrate recruitment messaging into broader institutional advancement strategies.
Operational & Financial Oversight:
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Ensure sound budget management, donor compliance, and ethical governance.
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Align operations with legal, financial, and institutional policies.
Qualifications:
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Minimum: Postgraduate qualification in higher education, public administration, communications, international relations, marketing, or a related field.
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Preferred: 8+ years of experience in higher education and global fundraising.
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Minimum Required Experience: 5 years in leadership roles related to fundraising and resource mobilisation.
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Proven track record in securing major donor contributions and leading advancement strategies.
Key Competencies:
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Strategic Thinking: Ability to operationalize complex strategies
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Results Orientation: Adaptable, resilient, and outcome-focused
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Leadership: Inspirational, decisive, collaborative
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Business Acumen: Financial oversight, compliance, and planning
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Coalition Building: Strong relationship-building, influencing, and negotiation skills
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Communication: Skilled in public speaking, digital platforms, stakeholder engagement
Benefits:
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Competitive salary (available upon request)
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Pension, medical aid, housing allowance, service bonus, study benefits, and more (subject to policy)
Application Process:
Apply online via the UFS vacancies portal: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Submit the following documents (max 8 attachments):
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Detailed CV
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Certified copies of qualifications (with SAQA evaluation if foreign)
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Copy of ID/passport
Note: Previous applicants for Job ID: 6109 will be considered; no need to reapply.
Enquiries:
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HR Contact: Ms Ratsoane | ☎ 051 401 9383 | ✉ ratsoanems@ufs.ac.za
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Technical Support: ☎ 051 401 9329 | ✉ vermaakm@ufs.ac.za
Employment Equity:
The UFS is committed to transformation and equity in the workplace and encourages applications from candidates from underrepresented groups, including persons with disabilities.
Also see: SAQA Qualification Verification Guide