Dean of Students

Job Summary Stellenbosch University (SU) invites applications for the position of Dean of Students (Ref. R/01/305/1125). As a globally connected, research‑intensive institution, SU advances knowledge in service of society and strives to be Africa’s leading research‑intensive university, globally recognised for excellence, inclusivity, and innovation. Reporting directly to the Rector and Vice‑Chancellor, the Dean of Students will provide strategic and intellectual leadership to the Responsibility Centre: Dean of Students, overseeing Student Counselling and Development and Student Life and Learning across all SU campuses. Responsibilities Provide strategic leadership for the Responsibility Centre, aligned with SU’s Vision 2040 and strategic frameworks. Promote a holistic and transformative student experience that integrates academic success, wellbeing, leadership, and social impact. Oversee Student Counselling and Development and Student Life and Learning across all SU campuses, ensuring excellence in support services, residence life, and student development. Strengthen student governance structures and cultivate leadership opportunities that contribute to institutional transformation and social cohesion. Build strategic partnerships and stakeholder relationships internally across responsibility centres and externally with government, national and international higher‑education bodies and civil society. Build intentional and strong relationships with students and student leadership, ensuring effective sharing of feedback with senior leadership and proposing appropriate actions. Manage the budget, human resources, and overall operational effectiveness of the Responsibility Centre in alignment with institutional policy. Provide visible and accessible leadership within the student community, fostering a culture of respect, engagement, and accountability. Qualifications Doctorate degree. At least ten years of relevant experience, including at least seven or eight years in a senior management position with full management responsibility for a functional unit, centre or responsibility centre in higher education. Proven capacity to provide dynamic and strategic leadership in the area of responsibility. Evidence of national and or international outputs related to student development as a theme for own research‑based practice for professional development. Proven ability to develop and sustain strategically relevant institutional partnerships and alliances at national and international levels. Excellent communication, conflict handling and facilitation skills in a diverse environment. Negotiation skills. Sound interpersonal relations and the ability to take the lead within a team. Ability to contribute to institutional redress through accelerated diversification of staff and the student corps. High level of emotional intelligence and professional discretion. Financial acumen. Managerial skills, including the ability to direct, supervise, coordinate, and review the activities of direct reports, teams or individuals in a large complex environment. Solid understanding of the South African higher education sector and national and international realities relating to student leadership. Incumbent must reside on campus to ensure a visible and engaged presence, including availability after-hours and on weekends. Ability to function effectively within a multilingual and multicultural environment in accordance with the University’s policies. Application Requirements A covering letter indicating how you meet the requirements. A comprehensive curriculum vitae. Your vision for the role of Dean of Students at Stellenbosch University. Details regarding present occupation, remuneration package and citizenship. Certified copies of qualifications and certificates. Details of at least five referees. An indication of the earliest date on which duties can be assumed. Short presentation to the Senior Appointments Committee will be requested from shortlisted candidates. Other Information Term of Office: normally five (5) years, with possible reappointment for subsequent terms. Senior Appointments Committee may contact referees and other relevant persons for additional information. University is committed to the advancement of diversity and to employment equity. University reserves the right to not make an appointment and to extend the closing date if deemed appropriate. Commencement Date: 01‑Jun‑2026. Closing Date: 19‑Jan‑2026. Working arrangement: Work at home policy details. Currency: ZAR. Contact: Ms Mienke du Plessis for enquiries regarding the post; HR Client Services Centre: 021 808 2753 for remuneration/benefits and technical assistance. Seniority Level Not Applicable. Employment type Full‑time. Job function Education and Training; Education Administration Programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr