UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA (UNISA) VACANCIES

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA (UNISA)

PORTFOLIO: OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL AND VICE CHANCELLOR
POSITION: DIRECTOR: EXECUTIVE SUPPORT:
OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL AND VICE CHANCELLOR (P4)
(5-YEAR FIXED-TERM CONTRACT)
(REF: D:OPVC/AM/2024)

UNISA is a publicly funded Higher Education Institution in South Africa dedicated to distance education. In keeping with its mandate as a Comprehensive, Open and Distance Learning (CODeL +) institution offering a variety of academic and career focused programmes, Unisa is inviting applications for the position of Director: Executive Support in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor.

Purpose for this position.
The purpose of the position is to manage and provide high level administrative and executive support services to assist the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice- Chancellor in achieving operational and strategic objectives.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS (KPAs)
Key Performance Area 1: Administrative Support and Monitoring

Providing secretariat support services to selected high-level committees/workshops/ summits (e.g., Extended Management Makgotla, Principal and Vice-Chancellor Summits, etc.)
Ensuring open, professional, and cordial channels of communication between the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor and all relevant stakeholders
Monitoring the institutional cooperation in response to requests relayed on behalf of the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice- Chancellor.
Ensuring that all tasks, challenges, and issues identified, by the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, are being dealt with efficiently and effectively.
Maintaining a proper record system of speeches, presentations and other relevant documentation utilised by the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor.

Key Performance Area 2: Executive Support

Performing diverse executive support functions within the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Enhancing the professional image of the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor.
Preparing notes/memos/letters commensurate with the standing of the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, when required
Providing advice to the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice- Chancellor on identified institutional concerns, perceptions, and trends.
Anticipating Higher Education policy changes and developments and providing policy advice to inform academic, research and operational outlook
Advising and supporting the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor in defining the vision, transforming the business model, and reshaping the institution
Advising and supporting the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor in setting strategic tone and formulating long, medium, and short-term strategic direction towards realizing the vision of the institution
Assisting the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-chancellor in facilitating leadership alignment processes and reinforcing integrated strategic thinking
Preparing recommendations/inputs to the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor regarding approval and/or amendments of plans and reports and providing relevant support in tabling the reports to the relevant structures
Attending relevant conferences and workshops and presenting on various topics
Acting as key liaison between the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor and the University on troubleshooting matters

Key Performance Area 3: Research and Writing

Conducting primary and secondary research on relevant topics within the framework to effectively support the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Keeping abreast with local and international higher education trends, analysing, and disseminating themes to top management via the Office of the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor
Analysing trends and new developments on matters relevant to Higher Education
Preparing well-researched content specific speeches for the Principal and Vice -Chancellor on institutional matters which are to be presented at national, international, and local forums (such as local and international conferences, graduations, regional/college visits, gala dinners, professional bodies, Higher Education Institutions, etc.)
Preparing well-researched content-specific speeches for the Chairperson of Council on request
Preparing speeches to be presented by the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, where required.
Preparing submissions for the annual reports relating to matters that are required from the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice- Chancellor and/or the Chairperson of Council
Preparing relevant reports as may be required by the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice- Chancellor

Key Performance Area 4: Governance and Reporting

Monitoring and reporting on progress against operational initiatives
Monitoring and reporting on legislative and statutory compliance where applicable
Promoting sound institutional governance and participating in Institutional governance structures (Professional Citizenship)
Compiling regular reports to Council, its committees and other relevant structures if requested by the Executive Director in the Office of the Principal and Vice- Chancellor
Participating in the annual performance review
Ensuring proper record keeping of all aspects within field of the responsibility

Key Performance Area 5: People Management
Implement Talent Management throughout the unit:

Talent identification and development
Performance management
Succession Planning
Ensuring an CODeL competent workforce
Leading, mentoring, and empowering employees and change within the directorate to promote high performance, optimal working environment, and cost-effective operations.
Driving a high-performance culture by taking accountability for an effective and well-articulated performance management process
Ensuring the resourcing of the directorate through recruitment and the filling of positions to meet the operational requirements of the institution.
Promoting the positive employee relations and climate through employee engagement within the unit
Promoting and encouraging a healthy, balanced and thriving workforce
Fostering an organisational culture and climate that is ethics- and value-driven.

Qualification

Minimum of Masters Degree and registration with relevant professional body where applicable.

Experience

Minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience with at least 5 years in a management role

Competencies

Demonstrable track record in stakeholder engagement and responsiveness
Extensive experience in the management of human and financial resources
Demonstrable track record of working in a complex academic/executive administrative environment
Sound knowledge and understanding of legal, policy and regulatory frameworks in HE
Ability to lead and initiate innovative systems and processes
Strong analytical and conceptual skills
Ability to make decisions and work autonomously
Ability to handle and manage confidential and sensitive information

Assumption of duty: As soon as possible Salary: Remuneration is commensurate with the seniority of the of the position

Closing Date: 8 December 2024
Enquiries: carmen1127@talenting.co.za

Interested candidates should send a detailed cover letter indicating their suitability for the position, an updated detailed comprehensive Curriculum Vitae, and certified copies of the following documents:

All educational qualifications;
Identity document; and
Proof of SAQA verification of foreign qualifications, where relevant.

PORTFOLIO: REGISTRAR
DIRECTORATE: MUSIC FOUNDATION
DIRECTOR: MUSIC FOUNDATION (P4) X1
(MUCKLENEUK CAMPUS)
(REF: DIR/MUSFOU/REG/OCT 2024)

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is the largest comprehensive open distance eLearning (CODeL) institution in Africa and the longest complex standing dedicated distance education university in the world, nurturing aspirant leaders of tomorrow and motivating a future generation through knowledge development, research, engaged scholarship, research, and innovation. Unisa offers an unparalleled range of study choices in undergraduate and post-graduate degrees/research, UNISA is inviting applications for the position of Director: Music Foundation P4.

The purpose and objectives of this position is to direct, guide and manage the Music Directorate, to conceive and implement its strategic objectives, to plan and implement national and international music examinations, music scholarship competitions, concerts and other related activities, and to ensure the effective administration and management of national and international music competitions and community music projects.

REQUIREMENTS

Doctoral Degree (PhD) in music and registration with relevant professional body where applicable.
Minimum of 10 years’ experience teaching and/or lecturing in music and 5 years’ experience in a management role.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS
KPA 1: DEVELOP THE DIRECTORATE STRATEGY AND OPERATIONAL PLAN IN ALIGNMENT WITH THE UNISA STRATEGIC PLAN AND OBJECTIVES

Drive changes throughout the Music Examinations and Music Foundation Divisions.
Develop the Music Directorate’s 5-year operational business plan and ensure initiatives are in alignment with the UNISA strategy and review annually.
Submit the plan for approval to the relevant role players.
Manage and monitor the implementation of the Music Directorate’s operational business plan in accordance with policies and procedures.
Develop regulations and review the music examinations handbook and the circulars.
Ensure that all regulations are placed on the internet.
Ensure finances are available to enable implementation of the strategy.
Manage and oversee both divisions of the directorate to ensure that strategies and new initiatives are applied.
Initiate and supervise the development of new qualifications and syllabuses and design new programmes for accreditation and approval.
Market and build the image of the directorate to clients, deliver presentations and adjudicate competitions in order to promote the directorate.

KPA 2: PROVIDE LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT

Provide leadership and management, facilitate change and transformation. o Set, maintain and review the directorate’s direction in line with the department’s direction and Comprehensive Open Distance eLearning (CODeL) business model.
Institutionalise CODeL as an effective business model.
Foster an organisational culture and climate that is ethical, and values driven.
Establish a culture and practice of quality and service excellence.
Advance employment equity and diversity.
Ensure the integration and alignment of Directorate functions and plans with interdependencies.
Contribute to governance and management of the Department and Institution as a whole.
Ensure continuous quality improvement.
Cultivate a collaborative and high-performing culture of all the employees within the directorate.
Ensure sound financial management.
Enhance the use of technology in the directorate.
Ensure the development and implementation of effective risk management control and audit information processes and standards.
Manage complaints in respect of examination results.
Manage and address complaints relating to music examinations.
Liaise with and serve on relevant internal and external committees and bodies
Determine and secure the human resource requirements (both permanent and contract) to meet departmental business plan objectives.
Ensure contracts for staff are properly completed.
Conduct performance reviews to determine Key Performance Areas and agreements and develop Personal Development Plans.
Track and monitor performance and continuously provide feedback and coaching to ensure that the staff member/s perform at optimum productivity level.
Address all ethical and related disciplinary matters.
Provide feedback to staff members and take corrective actions to address areas of non-performance.
Create an environment to enable staff members to perform at the appropriate level.
Mentor and coach staff to ensure standards are maintained at a high level at all times.
Manage Human Resources in accordance with policies, procedures and legal requirements.
Supervised students

KPA3: ADMINISTER PUBLICATIONS

Update and edit all administrative publications such as circulars, newsletters, order forms, code book and application forms.
Oversee the publication of Musicus as a scholarly journal.
Oversee the updating and editing of professional publications, e.g. report forms, syllabuses, examination papers, learner support material such as workbooks, sight reading and practical musicianship.
Develop learner support and examination material for new programmes.
Proofread and edit material of new programmes.
Proofread and edit concert programmes and brochures for the Music Foundation.
Ensure that all published material meets the required quality standards.

KPA 4: MANAGE SPECIAL PROJECTS

Oversee the management and implementation of special projects involving the directorate, including those specific to the Music Foundation’s outreach projects.
Manage the implementation of the UNISA Foundation Symphony Orchestra and Orchestral Development Programme, the UNISA Wind Band and UNISA Big Band and any other relevant activity.
Present strategy presentations at conferences and workshops in order to drive and enhance the image of the Directorate of Music.
Visit and assess community outreach and development programmes in South Africa for consideration.

KPA 5: NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL MUSIC COMPETITIONS (MUSIC
FOUNDATION) AND SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITIONS (MUSIC EXAMINATIONS)

Oversee the management of the International Music Competitions.
Devise rules, regulations and repertoire for new Competitions.
Develop the requirements and repertoire design for each category of instrument or voice.
Oversee funding proposals and ensure that funding is applied for and that donors are sourced.
Ensure that the logistics are managed for competitions in terms of funding, participation requirements, regulations, venues adjudicators, calendar etc.
Serve as non-voting chairperson and / or adjudicator at music competitions.
Represent the university at the music competition finales and present awards

KPA 6: FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AND REPORTING

Compile and submit the Directorate budget for approval in line with the identified requirements.
Manage and monitor the budget in accordance with policies, procedures and legislation: Identify peak periods in terms of expenditure
Identify areas of under-expenditure
Monitor costs to ensure expenditure is within the allocated budget
Address any areas of over expenditure
Authorise payment of all aspects related to music examinations in alignment with budget.
Manage the Directorate’s third-stream income.
Handling and responding to both internal and external audit findings

Behaviour and Technical and Managerial Competencies

Leading and deciding – takes control and exercises leadership. Initiates action, gives direction, and takes responsibility
Creating and conceptualising – works well in situations requiring openness to new ideas and experiences. Seeks out learning opportunities. Handles situations and problems with innovation and creativity. Thinks broadly and strategically. Supports and drives organisational change
Adapting and coping – adapts and responds well to change. Manages pressure effectively and copes well with setbacks.
Supporting and co-operating – supports others and shows respect and positive regard for them in social situations. Puts people first, working effectively with individuals and teams, clients and staff. Behaves consistently with clear personal values which complement those of the organisation.
Analysing and interpreting – shows evidence of clear analytical thinking. Gets to the heart of complex problems and issues. Applies own expertise effectively. Quickly takes on new technology. Communicates well in writing
Interacting and presenting – communicates and networks effectively. Successfully persuades and influences others. Relates to others in a confident and relaxed manner.
Enterprising and performing – focuses on results and achieving personal work objectives. Works best when work is related closely to results and the impact of personal efforts is obvious. Shows an understanding of business, commerce and finance. Seeks opportunities for self-development and career advancement.
Organising and executing – plans ahead and works in a systematic and organised way. Follows directions and procedures. Focuses on customer satisfaction and delivers a quality service or product to the agreed standards.
Living the values of the organisation and practicing the 11Cs + 1
Knowledge of the performance practice and repertoire of African music, jazz, and classical music.
Knowledge and experience to oversee the transformation of the directorate’s offerings to include African music in examinations, qualifications, concerts, competitions, and festivals.
A comprehensive understanding, knowledge and experience of music examination systems.
A comprehensive understanding of the South African musical scene/fraternity.
Extensive knowledge of music competitions.
Proven experience in research and development of learning programmes.
Proven experience in the development and accreditation processes of formal qualifications in music.
Proven experience editing scholarly journals and study material.
Proven experience with community engagement projects in a leadership role.
Knowledge and understanding of concerts, performances and music festivals in South Africa and overseas.
Technology savvy
Knowledge and understanding of corporate governance
Knowledge of Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) regulations and other relevant legislation
Ability to apply management principles, methodologies and tools
Problem solving and root cause identification skills
Acute business acumen and understanding of organisational issues and challenges
Knowledge of project management approaches, tools and phases of the project lifecycle
Knowledge and understanding of policy development and implementation

Salary: Remuneration is commensurate with the seniority of the Position
Closing Date: 08 December 2024
Enquiries: carmen1127@talenting.co.za

Interested candidates should send a detailed cover letter indicating their suitability for the position, a detailed comprehensive Curriculum Vitae, and copies of the following documents:

All educational qualifications
Identity document; and
Proof of SAQA verification of foreign qualifications, where relevant.

The contact details of three contactable references must be provided, one which must be from your present employer. Should you not be currently employed a contactable reference from your previous employer must be provided.
The detailed advertisement together with the prescribed application form can be found on the UNISA website (http://www.unisa.ac.za/vacancies)
Application can be forwarded by email to: carmen1127@talenting.co.za
UNISA is not obliged to fill an advertised position.
Late, incomplete, and incorrect applications will not be considered.

Appointments will be made in accordance with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan and other applicable legislation. We welcome applications from Persons with Disabilities

We welcome applications from Persons with Disabilities

All applications should reach UNISA before 16h00 on the closing date.

Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates only. If you have not been contacted within two months after closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was not successful.

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