Friday, November 7

    Social Media Specialist (Post Level 11) (Job ID: 6170) – (1860)

    The University of the Free State (UFS) is a prestigious South African university committed to academic excellence, innovation, and transformation. With a rich history spanning over a century, UFS aims to empower future leaders through high-quality education and inclusive practices. Its Communication and Marketing Division plays a vital role in enhancing the university’s brand visibility and engagement with internal and external stakeholders across traditional and digital media platforms.

    Job Overview:

    • Job Title: Social Media Specialist (Post Level 11)
    • Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
    • Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
    • Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time
    • Closing Date: 22 June 2025
    • Assumption of Duties: 01 July 2025 or as soon as possible

    Responsibilities:

    • Lead the creation and execution of creative social media strategies aligned with university priorities.

    • Manage official UFS social media accounts, including posting content, community engagement, and brand consistency.

    • Monitor digital trends and use social listening to identify issues and respond in real-time.

    • Create, adapt, and publish multimedia content (videos, images, GIFs, copy) across platforms.

    • Collaborate with internal stakeholders and student teams to develop authentic, peer-led content.

    • Analyse and report on campaign performance using tools like Meta Business Suite, TikTok Analytics, and Brandwatch.

    • Optimise content strategies based on data insights and institutional goals.

    • Support editorial planning within the Communication and Marketing Division’s content hub.

    • Maintain a network of UFS social media administrators and ensure compliance with brand and platform guidelines.

    • Recommend tools and digital innovations that elevate UFS’s digital presence.

    Qualifications:

    Minimum Requirements:

    • Bachelor’s degree / BTech / Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in Communication, Journalism, Media, Marketing, or a related field

    • Minimum of 2 years’ proven experience in social/digital media management

    Recommended:

    • Honours degree (NQF Level 8) in a relevant field

    • 3–5 years of relevant experience, especially in youth-focused or higher education environments

    • Knowledge of SEO and paid social media advertising

    • Experience with analytics/reporting tools (e.g. Brandwatch, Sprout Social) and content creation software (e.g. Canva, CapCut, Adobe Creative Suite)

    Benefits:

    • Annual salary package: R447,323.31 – R562,750.48 (depending on experience, qualifications, and budget availability)

    • Pension scheme

    • Medical aid scheme

    • Group life insurance

    • Housing allowance

    • Annual leave and sick leave

    • Service bonus

    • Study benefits

    Application Process:


    Apply online only at: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
    Applications via other platforms will not be considered.

    Required Documents:

    • Detailed Curriculum Vitae

    • Certified copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation if foreign)

    • Copy of ID/passport

    • Proof of employment (external applicants only)

    Enquiries:
    Tel: +27 51 401 9814
    Email: MakolaCM@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za
    Additional support: +27 51 401 2979 / 9810 / 9848

    Employment Equity:
    UFS is committed to transformation and equity. Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups, including candidates with disabilities, in accordance with its Employment Equity Plan (available here: EEA13-UFS EE Plan 1 March 2025 – 28 Feb 2026).

    APPLY NOW!

    Also See Available Vacancies at UFS: Internal Communication (post level 7) EXCITING OPPORTUNITY

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