EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR :HUMAN RESOURCES
Listing reference: ukzn_000935
Listing status: Online
Apply by: 23 October 2026
Position summary
Industry: Education & Training
Job category: University and Academy
Location: Westville
Contract: Fixed Term Contract
Remuneration: Market Related
EE position: No
Introduction
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR :HUMAN RESOURCES
FIVE (5) YEAR FIXED TERM APPOINTMENT – BASED ON THE WESTVILLE CAMPUS
Job description
The Executive Director Human Resources is responsible for the provision of strategic leadership in the implementation of the University’s human resource strategy, and in linking human resource management with organisational strategy. The Executive Director Human Resources manages the University’s Human Resources Division, including the Division’s budget; and will oversee a full range of human resources functions, such as Employee Relations, Human Resources and Organisational Development and Reward Services. The University of KwaZulu-Natal strives to establish the University as an Employer of Choice in the South African Higher Education Sector and the Executive Director Human
Resources will be responsible for ensuring the implementation and alignment of human resources policy and strategy to achieve this objective, by the creation and maintaining of an organisational culture of inclusivity, belonging, diversity, equity, employee engagement and wellbeing. The Executive Director Human Resources reports to the Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
Resources will be responsible for ensuring the implementation and alignment of human resources policy and strategy to achieve this objective, by the creation and maintaining of an organisational culture of inclusivity, belonging, diversity, equity, employee engagement and wellbeing. The Executive Director Human Resources reports to the Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
Minimum requirements
- An appropriate Master’s Degree.
- Minimum of 10 years relevant experience, of which at least 5 years must have been at a senior management or executive management level in Human Resources.
- Knowledge of leadership and management principles as they relate to human resources within the tertiary education sector within South Africa.
- Knowledge of all employment related and other legislation impacting on the tertiary education sector within South Africa.
- Experience of managing, leading and developing professional HR teams within a complex and dynamic work environment.
- Experience of project management where innovative HR solutions have been delivered both personally and through delegating, mentoring and supporting others.
- Demonstrated experience of successfully consulting and negotiating with trade unions.
- Experience in change management and advocacy.
- Understanding of HR database systems and other technological systems which enhance the management and provision of HR services.
- The ability to effectively analyse workforce data, statistics for benchmarking, auditing, modelling and forecasting to support workforce and human resource planning
Personal and leadership Attributes
The incumbent must be a person with exceptional interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence and impeccable ethics; who is an institutional leader who leads by example and is able to foster strong interpersonal working relationships within Organised Labour; who gives leadership to management and staff within the Academic and Support College environments; and capably engage all external University Stakeholders.
In addition to the above attributes, the Incumbent must have the following:
- An ability to provide strategic human resource direction to the Colleges.
- Sound judgement, above-average analytical ability, and a conceptual thinker.
- A champion of delivering above-average results by being committed to action, displaying resilience in the face of challenges, and diligently executing assignments.
- Exceptional self- and people-management skills.
- Capable and committed to self-awareness and self-correction, developing people talent, managing teams, and fostering productive working relationships.
- Respect for confidentiality and trustworthiness.
- Relevant business and administrative management acumen.
- Capability to undertake and manage strategic projects and assignments.
- Ability to provide competent, respectful, and ethical leadership.
- Puts into practice and embodies the University Values – R.E.A.C.HT. (Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Client Orientation, Honesty, and Trust).
Please note:
A job profile is available upon request.
- The closing date for receipt of applications is 23 October 2026.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- The University reserves the right not to make an appointment.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is committed to meeting the objectives of Employment Equity to improve representivity within the Institution. Preference will be given to applicants from designated groups in accordance with our Employment Equity Plan.
- Please do not send us copies of your degree and other certificates. We will request certified copies if you are short listed for interview.
- Please read the advertisement carefully. We do not consider applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements.
- The University is committed to Employment Equity.
- The University reserves the right not to fill a vacancy.
- Should you not hear from us within six weeks of the closing date, please assume you are unsuccessful
- Please familiarise yourself with the University’s Section 18 Notice regarding the processing of your Personal Information.