Senior Officer: Business Developer x1
- Employer: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Department: Vice-Chancellor and Principal – Top Management
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus
- Job Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Reference: Job ID 6466
- Closing Date: 5 June 2026
Job Description
The Senior Officer: Business Developer is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, expanding the University’s short learning programme offerings, building strategic partnerships, and driving marketing and revenue-generation initiatives for Kovsie Phahamisa Academy. The position combines business development, stakeholder engagement, marketing, project coordination, and strategic planning to support the growth and sustainability of continuing education programmes at UFS.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities aligned with UFS strategic objectives.
- Develop and implement business development strategies to expand Short Learning Programmes (SLPs).
- Establish and maintain partnerships with industry, government departments, and community organisations.
- Prepare business proposals, concept notes, and funding applications.
- Contribute to revenue generation and financial sustainability initiatives.
Market Research and Strategic Planning
- Conduct market research to determine training and skills development needs.
- Analyse trends in:
- Skills development
- Continuing education
- Short learning programmes
- Micro-credentials
- Recommend innovative programme offerings and market positioning strategies.
- Monitor industry developments to ensure programmes remain competitive and relevant.
Marketing and Promotion
- Develop and execute marketing campaigns across digital and traditional channels.
- Design integrated marketing plans to increase programme visibility and stakeholder engagement.
- Coordinate the creation of:
- Brochures
- Marketing materials
- Business proposals
- Presentations
- Promote programmes to prospective clients and partners.
Digital Marketing and Communication
- Manage KPHA’s online presence, including:
- Website content
- Social media platforms
- Digital campaigns
- Ensure consistent branding and messaging.
- Improve stakeholder communication and client engagement through digital platforms.
Stakeholder and Client Relationship Management
- Build relationships with:
- Academic departments
- Government institutions
- Private sector organisations
- Community stakeholders
- Conduct presentations and networking engagements.
- Manage client relationships to improve satisfaction and retention.
- Represent UFS at exhibitions, conferences, and industry forums.
Monitoring and Reporting
- Measure and evaluate business development and marketing initiatives.
- Track key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Prepare reports and recommendations for management.
- Ensure compliance with institutional policies and quality assurance requirements.
Innovation and Continuous Improvement
- Drive innovation in:
- Programme packaging
- Learning delivery methods
- Certification pathways
- Recommend improvements to operational processes and programme offerings.
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma/BTech (NQF Level 7) in:
- Marketing, or
- Business-related field
Experience
Minimum 2 years relevant experience in:
- Business development
- Marketing initiatives
- Stakeholder engagement
- Project coordination
- Preparing proposals and presentations
- Writing business reports
- Managing initiatives involving multiple stakeholders
Additional Requirement
- Valid driver’s licence (must attach a copy with application)
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
Preference may be given to candidates with:
Qualification
- Relevant Honours Degree (NQF Level 8)
Experience
Experience in:
- Higher education
- Continuing education
- Skills development
- Training environments
- Short learning programme management
Essential Skills and Competencies
Business Development Skills
- Opportunity identification
- Market analysis
- Proposal development
- Partnership building
- Revenue generation
Marketing Skills
- Digital marketing
- Social media management
- Brand promotion
- Campaign planning
- Content development
Communication Skills
- Report writing
- Presentation skills
- Stakeholder engagement
- Negotiation and persuasion
Technical Skills
- Microsoft Office proficiency:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Outlook
Strategic and Analytical Skills
- Strategic thinking
- Problem solving
- Data analysis
- Decision making
- Planning and organisation
Leadership Skills
- Initiative and accountability
- Team collaboration
- Influencing and motivating others
- Relationship management
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate should be:
- Entrepreneurial and commercially minded
- Results-driven and proactive
- Comfortable networking and building partnerships
- Skilled in marketing and business growth initiatives
- Able to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Professional and confident when representing the University externally
- Interested in education, skills development, and lifelong learning initiatives
Employee Benefits
Successful candidates may qualify for:
- Pension fund benefits
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Annual leave and sick leave
- Service bonus (13th cheque)
- Study benefits
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must submit:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of qualifications or proof of qualification
- SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications)
- South African ID or passport
- Employment confirmation document (external applicants):
- Appointment letter, or
- Employment contract, or
- Service certificate, or
- Recent payslip
- Copy of valid driver’s licence