The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is a vibrant, diverse and dynamic institution that is cognisant of the volatile, uncertain, complex, ever-changing and challenging global environment. The University actively responds, in critical and creative ways, to the developmental needs of the local, national and international contexts.

Internationalisation is core to UWC’s academic mission and it is embedded as a cross-cutting theme across all the goal areas of the Institutional Operating Plan.   The International Relations Office is at the nucleus of internationalisation activities. This includes, inter-alia, strengthening existing major partnerships, building new functional links and paying focused attention to expanding relationships with universities, globally.

UWC is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of International Relations to lead, expand and enhance our substantive global engagement initiatives.   This position requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of higher education dynamics and a proven track record in developing and managing international relations within a university setting.   The successful candidate will be responsible for raising our international visibility and stature, improving the chances of securing large-scale joint funding for research, broadening the experience of staff and students, and equipping them to participate in the global knowledge economy.   The role also requires the successful candidate to forge a close working relationship with Faculties and Research Centres to strengthen international partnerships, foster academic collaborations, and enhance the university’s global reputation.    
 

The successful incumbent, reports to the Rector and Vice-Chancellor and is responsible for the following Key Performance Areas: 

• Responsibility for the development and oversight of the University’s internationalisation strategy, supplemented by a rolling implementation and operational plan aimed at enhancing UWC’s reputation through internationalisation activities
• Facilitate the development of strategic alliances in pursuit of internationalisation 
• Manage staff and all operational functions of the International Relations Office 
• Develop and implement systems to lend support to the coordination of academic exchange and student mobility programmes 
• Oversee the management and administration of internationalisation activity  
   

Minimum Requirements: (Qualification and Experience)

• A Relevant Doctoral Degree (NQF level 10).
• At least 8 years’ experience at a senior-manager or manager level in higher education. 
• Demonstrable leadership experience in international relations within a university or higher education setting.
• Experience with the international funding landscape including international mobility schemes.
   

Required competencies (skills, knowledge, and behavioural attributes):

• Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with diverse stakeholders at a global level.
• Current knowledge of issues relating to internationalisation, higher education development, organisation, policy and management both within South Africa and internationally.
• Strong understanding of academic objectives and how international collaborations enhance institutional excellence  .
• Knowledge of Higher Education and South African legislative frameworks and policies. 
• Excellent communication and writing skills in English.
• Proven experience in overseeing and managing a busy team and the related administrative functions.
• Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills including the ability to manage teams.
• Proven negotiation, and intercultural competency skills.  
• Strategic mindset with strong project management and leadership capabilities.  
• Willingness to travel and work irregular hours when required.
• Ability to negotiate, influence and interact with a wide range of individuals with diverse backgrounds. 
• Sound financial and budget management skills. 
• People leadership skills. 
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong financial planning and management acumen.