Manager : Internal Communications
Position summary
Introduction
Job description
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is committed to academic excellence and institutional cohesion through effective internal engagement. The Corporate Relations Division seeks to appoint a strategic and innovative professional to the position of Manager: Internal Communications. This individual will be responsible for developing and executing a unified internal communication strategy, managing institutional events, and leading a team that supports inclusive, timely, and strategic messaging across all campuses.
The ideal candidate will bring strong editorial judgement, a collaborative leadership style, and a deep understanding of communication dynamics within the higher education sector. Proven experience in managing internal communications and stakeholder engagement in a complex and diverse institutional environment is essential.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The incumbent will be required to:
- Develop and implement an integrated internal communications strategy aligned with institutional priorities.
- Lead and manage a cross-functional internal communications team, including coordination with College-based teams and the oversight of internal events.
- Manage key internal communication platforms and channels, including staff and student newsletters, the intranet, and digital signage.
- Oversee the planning and execution of major institutional events, ensuring alignment with UKZN’s brand, tone, and strategic messaging.
- Draft strategic messages for executive leadership and lead internal campaigns that build institutional culture and connectedness.
- Monitor and evaluate communication and engagement effectiveness through analytics and stakeholder feedback.
Minimum requirements
- An Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma(NQF8) in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
- A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience in internal communications, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory or managerial role, specifically leading internal communications and events functions in a complex organisation.
- Demonstrated experience in managing institutional events, staff communication platforms, and leading internal campaigns.
- A sound understanding of the higher education landscape, with demonstrated experience working in a university or comparable institutional environment.
- A valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel between campuses, and to work after hours and on weekends as required.
KEY COMPETENCIES AND ATTRIBUTES:
- Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse internal audiences.
- Strong editorial, planning and project coordination abilities.
- A collaborative and proactive leadership approach.
- High levels of discretion, sound judgement, and a sensitivity to institutional culture.
- Proficiency in digital communication tools, analytics, and internal messaging platforms.
- Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and maintain a high standard of output.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 07 July 2025
Kindly note that the University of KwaZulu-Natal (“the University”) is required to process any Personal Information (as defined by the Protection of Personal Act, 2013 “POPIA”) submitted by candidates when applying for positions at the University. The provision of the Personal Information is a requirement in terms of the University’s recruitment and selection process. The retention of any personal information is as a consequence of the University being bound by legislative requirements and / or good governance practices as well as record keeping for statistical purposes. The University will endeavour to ensure that the appropriate security measures are in place and implemented for both electronic and paperbased formats that are used for processing of the personal information recorded through this recruitment and selection process.
Benefits
Appointment to this post will be on the January 2018 Conditions of Service. The remuneration package offered includes benefits.
