Re Advertisement - Assistant to the Director (Internal Advert)

(If you have already applied for this post, you do not need to reapply.)

We are seeking a highly capable professional to provide high level support to the HR Director. The role requires exceptional organisational skills, discretion in handling sensitive matters, and the ability to coordinate complex schedules and communications at a senior level. Success in this role will depend on proactive problem solving, strong communication skills, and the ability to anticipate and respond to the evolving needs of the organisation and the Director.

To work closely with the Director to provide high level administrative and front line support, enabling the Director to effectively support the academic project and serve the University in the execution of responsibilities, duties, and tasks and to meet strategic objectives. The role is responsible for a proactive approach to understanding and keeping up to date with the division's activities to be able to coordinate meetings, manage the Director's diary, projects and manage project timelines, liaising with stakeholders as required to ensure the work of the Director's office runs smoothly.

• A B. Degree (NQF level 7, preferably in human resources) or equivalent plus approximately four (4) years relevant experience, including:
• Previous high level administrative experience in an electronic environment where planning, coordinating, and executing complex administrative processes and projects were key responsibilities and where the job required a high degree of composure under pressure.
• Ability to manage busy and complex calendars and/or meetings with competing priorities, ensuring seamless logistics and demonstrating sound judgement when prioritising issues.
• Demonstrable ability to proactively solve problems, anticipate challenges, and propose solutions.
• Proven ability to handle confidential and sensitive information responsibly, discreetly, and professionally, and to communicate clearly and diplomatically.
• Previous experience or demonstrable ability to write reports and analyse data.
• Human resource related administrative experience and/or working with an HR management information system is advantageous.

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications, including:
• Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
• Referees who are and/or were your direct line managers, their titles, names, designations and contact information, including at least a 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. The application must be submitted via the website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and appropriately respond to all questions may result in disqualification.

• Short listing meeting scheduled for 11 May 2026.
• The selection process will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Short listed candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may appoint on a fixed term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with filling the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

29 April 2026

The 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.

Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of under represented designated groups and persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

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 to achieve our vision and mission.

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion