DEPARTMENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS
MANAGER: ACADEMIC ADVISING
PEROMNES POST LEVEL - 07
In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.
The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.
JOB PURPOSE
The Manager: Academic Advising provides strategic and operational leadership for academic advising and student success initiatives aimed at improving student retention, progression, and academic achievement. The role oversees Academic Success Coaches (ASCs), coordinates institutional student success programmes, and strengthens collaborative support systems to enhance the overall student experience and success.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The successful candidate will actively participate in the following areas:
Student Success Management
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Provide strategic and operational support to Academic Success Coaches (ASCs);
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Monitor and evaluate advising interventions, workshops, and student success initiatives;
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Coordinate student success programmes, including mentorship and orientation initiatives;
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Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks for academic advising interventions;
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Compile and submit institutional and departmental reports related to student success.
Coordination of Institutional Programmes
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Coordinate the University’s First-Year Orientation programme;
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Oversee student success initiatives and awareness campaigns;
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Collaborate with faculties and professional service departments to implement integrated student support programmes;
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Coordinate programme events and activities across campuses.
Financial and Resource Management
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Manage operational and programme budgets in accordance with university policies and procedures;
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Monitor expenditure and financial reporting;
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Manage service provider agreements and contractual obligations.
Stakeholder Engagement
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Build and maintain collaborative relationships with faculties, students, professional service departments, and external stakeholders;
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Contribute to the development and implementation of holistic student support systems and programmes.
Human Resource Management
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Manage staff performance, development, and productivity;
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Participate in recruitment, selection, and staff development processes;
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Facilitate communication, compliance, and team engagement initiatives.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
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Relevant Bachelor’s degree or BTech qualification in Social Sciences, Education, Psychology, or a related field.
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At least four (4) years’ relevant experience in student success, academic advising, teaching and learning support, or related higher education environments;
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Experience in working with academic and support staff as well as university students;
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Proven experience in student success interventions and project coordination;
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Experience in using technology and innovative approaches to support student success.
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
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Strong leadership, coaching, and stakeholder engagement abilities;
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Sound organisational, administrative, and financial management skills;
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Advanced facilitation and workshop presentation skills;
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and case management skills;
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Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and digital platforms;
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Ability to work under pressure and outside office hours when required.
ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:
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Relevant Honours or Master’s degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification;
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Experience in academic advising and first-year experience initiatives;
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Knowledge of contemporary student success theory and practice;
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Evidence of research output or participation in higher education student success forums and collaborations;
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Training or qualifications related to operations or project management.
PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.
The all-inclusive remuneration package for this contract position will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.
Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za
In applying for this post, please attach:
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A comprehensive CV;
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Certified copies of qualifications;
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Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
CLOSING DATE: 21 July 2026
No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.
ENQUIRIES: Ms Kgomotso Lekgari, Tel: (012) 420-2640 for application-related enquiries, and Dr Lekwa Mokwana, Tel: (012) 420-3777 for enquiries relating to the post content.
Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31October 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.
The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.
In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.
All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.
The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.
