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RHODES UNIVERSITY
MANAGER: ALUMNI AND STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS
Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Permanent
Closing Date 12 August 2026
Job Details
Division: 2501 - Communications and Advancement
Business Unit: 2501_04 - Communications and Advancement Alumni Relations
Minimum experience: Mid-Senior
Company primary industry: Higher Education
Job functional area: Other
Job Description
Manager: Alumni and Stakeholder Relations (Grade 16)
Advancement and Communication Division
The Advancement and Communication Division invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.
Main Objectives
The key role of the Manager, Alumni and Stakeholder Relations, is to manage and strengthen mutually beneficial relationships between the University and its alumni, both locally and internationally, as well as with other strategic stakeholders, in support of the University’s Communication and Advancement strategy. The incumbent is responsible for driving sustainable alum engagement programmes and developing integrated stakeholder engagement strategies informed by ongoing research and insights into alum needs, interests, and institutional priorities. The role focuses on building, nurturing, and sustaining meaningful relationships across diverse alumni and stakeholder groupings, while creating opportunities and platforms for alumni to connect and reconnect with one another and with their alma mater. Working closely with the Fundraising function, and Communications and Media Relations, the role also contributes to cultivating a culture of giving among alumni and strengthening alum participation in advancing the University’s strategic objectives. In addition, the position seeks to foster connections between alums, prospective students, and current students, creating visible role models and strengthening lifelong engagement with the University.
The Requirements
A relevant B Degree (NQF level 7) plus approximately 7 years’ relevant experience, where such experience includes: -
· Previous experience in alums and stakeholder relationship management, and/or be
able to demonstrate a track record of success in relationship-building skills, familiarity with
working to mobilise constituent groups.
· Demonstrable success in running projects which are aimed at achieving support for
philanthropic programmes.
· Previous experience in a position where work plans may extend over several years and where
a high degree of persuasiveness is seen as key to success.
· At least 3 years’ management experience.
· Excellent communication (written), presentation, networking and negotiation skills working
with diverse stakeholders.
· Demonstrable creative and conceptual ability with a focus on continuous innovation
Application Process
It is essential that prospective candidates read the Job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.
The following documents are required:
A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications, which should include the following:
- Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
- Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
- A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.
Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.
Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za.
Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):
- Short-listing meeting date: 16 September 2026.
- The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
- Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.
Remuneration per annum (Grade 16):
Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R849 546
Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):R1 098 433
All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.
Closing Date: 12 August 2026
This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.
If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.
Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.
Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.
These values are:
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion
Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.
HR OFFICER (3 YEAR CONTRACT)
Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Contract
Closing Date 11 August 2026
Job Details
Department: other
Minimum experience: Mid-Senior
Company primary industry: Higher Education
Job functional area: Human Resources
Job Description
HR Officer (3 year contract)
Division of People and Culture
The Division of People and Culture is inviting suitably qualified candidates to join their team.
Main Objectives
To support the Senior HR Practitioners and the Recruitment Partner in providing a valued and professional HR service, specifically through the execution of excellent HR administrative and basic HR professional services. The HR Officer and the Senior HR Practitioner will operate across units. These units report to the Managers: Recruitment and Staffing, who in turn report to the Senior Manager: Recruitment and Staffing.
The Requirement
B.Degree (with a relevant major, preferably in Industrial Psychology or Human Resources) plus approximately three years’ relevant experience, where such experience includes: -
- Administration with a strong focus on implementing electronic administrative systems and processes.
- At least one year of experience in HR administration within an environment utilising an HR information technology system.
- Implementing structures, systems, and processes to ensure service delivery of a high quality that is valued by others.
- Exposure to most, if not all, areas of HR (for example, Recruitment and Selection, Employee Relations, Training and Development, Remuneration, Performance Management, HR IT systems, and Well-being) will be a considerable advantage.
- At least 24 months of experience in a pressurised, high-volume administrative environment, dealing with a large staff complement (minimum of 1000 employees).
- Previous experience within the Higher Education sector will be an advantage
Application Process
It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.
The following documents are required:
- A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -
- Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
- Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
- A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.
Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.
Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za or 0466038753.
Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):
- Short-listing meeting scheduled for the 28th of August 2026.
- The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
- Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.
Remuneration per annum (Grade 11):
Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R424 059
Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):R569 518
All applications will be treated in strict confidence. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.
Closing Date: 11 August 2026
This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.
If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.
Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.
Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.
These values are:
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion
Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.
RESEARCHER/SENIOR RESEARCHER IN ECOLOGIES IN THE RASC (CONTRACT POST)
Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Contract
Closing Date 10 August 2026
Job Details
Department: other
Minimum experience: Associate
Company primary industry: Higher Education
Job functional area: Research
Contract term: 24
Salary: R872 722 - R1 069 564 per annum
Job Description
Readvertisement: Researcher/Senior Researcher in Ecologies in the Rhodes African Studies Centre (RASC)
(Contract post – 2 years)
The Rhodes African Studies Centre invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team.
The Rhodes Africa Studies Centre (RASC)
Established in 2019, the Rhodes African Studies Centre is an inter-faculty research Centre of Excellence that is located in the Faculty of Humanities at Rhodes University. It focuses on conceptual, methodological, and empirical ways of reconfiguring African studies. The Centre is an integral part of Africa Multiple, an initiative of the DFG’s Excellence strategy. Africa Multiple comprises the University of Bayreuth in Germany; Moi University in Kenya; University of Lagos in Nigeria and the University of Joseph Ki Zerbo in Burkina Faso, in addition to University of Salvador du Bahia, which is one of our partners. For more information, visit Africa Multiple at: https://www.africamultiple.uni-bayreuth.de/en/index.html
Main Objectives
Research is the main focus, and teaching is not a core function. Where the researchers are on contract, raising funds for their employment, contract research shall be regarded as equivalent to more traditional forms of research.
In assessing the candidate’s scholarship for promotion, consideration will be given to the individual's track record. While disciplinary differences are considered, the candidate must demonstrate standing within the discipline through their research and student research. This could mean that the individual has demonstrated leadership, made a major contribution to research projects, served as the lead author on publications, or consistently contributed to multiple publications throughout their academic career.
The Requirements
Researcher
- PhD in Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Ecology, Climatology, Hydrology, Water Resource Science, Political Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Environmental Education and Learning, or related fields.
- Some experience in areas related to the Research Section's research, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary research linking bio-physical methods and concepts in the Natural Sciences with methods and concepts in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
- Emerging publication profiles in leading journals in the field of study, with some of these publications addressing inter- and/or transdisciplinary topics.
- Some experience in participating in interdisciplinary and/or collaborative projects and/or programmes.
- Evidence of attendance and presentation at local conferences. Presentation at international conferences will be an added advantage.
- Some administrative experience, albeit in informal contexts, e.g., student or sports clubs work experience.
Senior Researcher
- PhD in Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Ecology, Climatology, Hydrology, Water Resource Science, Political Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Environmental Education and Learning, or related fields.
- Evidence of extensive experience and demonstrated expertise in areas related to the research of the Research Section, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary research linking bio-physical methods and concepts in the Natural Sciences with methods and concepts in Humanities and Social Sciences.
- A strong publication record in leading journals in the field of study, with a special focus on inter- and transdisciplinary topics.
- Research supervision of at least a Master’s degree is required. Supervision at the PhD level will be an added advantage.
- Experience in leading and/or coordinating interdisciplinary and/or collaborative research projects and/or programmes.
- Evidence of attendance and presentation in local and preferably international conferences.
- Emerging national profile in the discipline.
- Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles (leadership roles may be informal).
Application Process
It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.
The following documents are required:
- A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -
- Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
- Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
- A strong and succinct cover letter outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.
- Short description (max. 3 pages) of a potential research project to be pursued within the Ecologies Research Section.
Please refer to the academic role profile and further particulars document for further information.
Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.
Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za.
Selection Process:
- The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
- Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.
Remuneration per annum:
Senior Researcher
Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 826,322.00
Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 1,069,564.00
Researcher
Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 667,972.00
Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 872,722.00
All applications will be treated in strict confidence. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.
Closing Date: 10 August 2026
This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible
If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.
Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.
Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.
These values are:
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion
Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.
RESEARCHER/SENIOR RESEARCHER IN ACCUMULATION AND INEQUALITIES IN THE RASC (CONTRACT POST)
Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Contract
Closing Date 10 August 2026
Job Details
Department: other
Minimum experience: Associate
Company primary industry: Higher Education
Job functional area: Research
Contract term: 24
Salary: R872 722 - R1 069 564 per annum
Job Description
Readvertisement: Researcher/Senior Researcher in Accumulation and Inequalities in the Rhodes African Studies Centre (RASC)
(Contract post – 2 years)
The Rhodes African Studies Centre invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.
The Rhodes Africa Studies Centre (RASC)
Established in 2019, the Rhodes African Studies Centre is an inter-faculty research Centre of Excellence that is located in the Faculty of Humanities at Rhodes University. It focuses on conceptual, methodological, and empirical ways of reconfiguring African studies. The Centre is an integral part of Africa Multiple, an initiative of the DFG’s Excellence strategy. Africa Multiple comprises the University of Bayreuth in Germany; Moi University in Kenya; University of Lagos in Nigeria and the University of Joseph Ki Zerbo in Burkina Faso, in addition to University of Salvador du Bahia, which is one of our partners. For more information, visit Africa Multiple at: https://www.africamultiple.uni-bayreuth.de/en/index.html
Main Objectives
Research is the main focus, and teaching is not a core function. Where the researchers are on contract, raising funds for their employment, contract research shall be regarded as equivalent to more traditional forms of research.
In assessing the candidate’s scholarship for promotion, consideration will be given to the individual's track record. While disciplinary differences are considered, the candidate must demonstrate standing within the discipline through their research and student research. This could mean that the individual has demonstrated leadership, made a major contribution to research projects, served as the lead author on publications, or consistently contributed to multiple publications throughout their academic career.
The Requirements
Researcher
- A PhD in African Studies, Political Economy, Economics, Political Sciences, Sociology, Science and Technology Studies, Gender Studies, Anthropology, Geography, Urban Planning, History, Cultural Studies, or a related field.
- Some experience in areas related to accumulation and inequality research, as well as political economy thinking; a focus on the gendered nature of accumulation dynamics is desirable.
- Emerging publication profile in leading journals with a reference to the themes "accumulation" and "inequality". A strong monograph by a respected publisher can be credited as an alternative. The publications address inter- and/or transdisciplinary research projects and build on proven collaborations relevant to the theme of accumulation and inequalities.
- Postgraduate research supervision is not necessarily required. Those with such experience have an added advantage.
- Some experience in coordinating or organising interdisciplinary and/or collaborative projects and/or programmes (this may include conferences and related academic activities)
- Evidence of attendance and presentation at local conferences. Presentation at international conferences will be an added advantage.
- A scholar showing significant research potential.
- Administrative experience, including the ability to coordinate a team of scholars in a collaborative international and interdisciplinary research context.
Senior Researcher
- A PhD in African Studies, Political Economy, Economics, Political Sciences, Sociology, Science and Technology Studies, Gender Studies, Anthropology, Geography, Urban Planning, History, Cultural Studies, or a related field.
- Significant expertise and experience in areas related to accumulation and inequality research, as well as political economy thinking; a focus on the gendered nature of accumulation dynamics is desirable.
- A very good publication record in leading journals with a reference to the themes "accumulation" and "inequality". A strong monograph by a respected publisher can be credited as an alternative. The publications should address inter- and transdisciplinary research projects and build on proven collaborations relevant to the theme of accumulation and inequalities.
- Research supervision of at least a Master’s degree is required. Supervision at the PhD level will be an added advantage.
- Significant experience in leading and/or coordinating interdisciplinary and/or collaborative research projects and/or programmes.
- Evidence of attendance and presentation in local and preferably international conferences.
- An established researcher with an emerging national profile in the discipline.
- Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles (leadership roles may be informal) in a collaborative international and interdisciplinary research context.
Application Process
It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.
The following documents are required:
- A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -
- Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
- Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
- A strong and succinct cover letter outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.
- Short description (max. 3 pages) of a potential research project to be pursued within the Accumulation and Inequalities Research Section.
Please refer to the academic role profile and further particulars document for further information.
Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.
Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za.
Selection Process:
- The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
- Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.
Remuneration per annum:
Senior Researcher
Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 826,322.00
Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 1,069,564.00
Researcher
Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 667,972.00
Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 872,722.00
All applications will be treated in strict confidence. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.
Closing Date: 10 August 2026
This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible
If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.
Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.
Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.
These values are:
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion
Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.
