Job Description

UP Professional and Support

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DEPARTMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT


MANAGER: ALUMNI RELATIONS


PEROMNES POST LEVEL 6

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.



The Alumni Relations Manager serves as the coordinator, spokesperson and public face of UP's alumni activities, promoting loyalty, support and building and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships with alumni. The role includes developing, executing and managing the Alumni Relations strategy within the Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA), supporting fundraising campaigns, co-ordinating alumni communications and public relations initiatives, fostering strategic alumni relationships and ensuring the integrity and accuracy of information provided to the DIA Database team.



RESPONSIBILITIES:


The incumbent's responsibilities:

Manage the Alumni Relations (AR) Office to create opportunities and engagement for alumni that will lead to increased loyalty, involvement and support for their alma mater; Develop, execute and monitor strategic and operational plans for AR in line with DIA's Division of Fundraising and Alumni and UP's strategic plans; Manage direct reports to ensure the strategic positioning of AR in the internal and external environment; Initiate and influence relevant policies by supplying strategic information to the line manager and providing policy proposals with regard to AR; Contribute towards mitigating alumni-related and reputational risks that the University may be exposed to through regular strategic and risk analysis; Plan and implement segmented communication messages for alumni and other external stakeholder groups via ongoing communication channels and events; Liaise with internal and external stakeholder groups to obtain and implement feedback regarding strategic market information and implement interventions as required; Oversee the regular updating of alumni communication channels and materials in line with the University's policies; Identify and oversee strategic executive engagement opportunities with alumni; Manage the human resources and finances in the AR Office according to University policies and guidelines and in co-operation with the line manager. Assist and support team members of the DIA with regards to fundraising and campaigns amongst alumni;


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Honours degree in communication, marketing, public relations, and other related fields; A minimum of 6 years' experience in the following, including at least two years of management experience in a corporate environment or tertiary institution; Alumni Relations; Strategic Planning; Stakeholder engagement; Project management; Financial management; Communication and Event Management; Team development and management;


REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

Proven ability to build, manage, and develop key stakeholder, client and donor relationships; Financial accounting and cost management knowledge; Computer literacy (Word, PowerPoint, Excel); Stakeholder engagement; Written and verbal communication skills; Possession of a designated level of technical skill or knowledge in a specific technical area(s) and the ability to keep up with current developments and trends in areas of expertise. May be acquired through academic, apprenticeship or on-the-job training or a combination of these; Ability to recognize and respect the value of individual differences at all levels of the organisation; Ability to deal with others in difficult and complex situations to achieve resolution or adherence to laws and/or regulations. Ability to use appropriate interpersonal skills and methods to reduce tension and resolve conflict; Ability to accomplishes tasks and processes accurately and completely; Ability to be relied upon to ensure that projects within areas of responsibility are completed in a timely manner. Ability to monitor programs and/or activities and take corrective action when necessary.


ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

Master's degree/ equivalent qualification in Communication, Management, Public Relations, or Social Sciences; 6 years of experience, of which 2 years of management experience in a corporate environment/ tertiary institution in the following: Experience in Fundraising; Experience in using UP Systems; A valid Driver's license.

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.



The total remuneration package for this position will be as determined by UP remuneration policy guidelines. (These amounts include the University's contributions to standard UP benefits, namely provident fund, group life and funeral cover, but exclude contributions to medical aid, as the latter varies per employee.) UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.


Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za



In applying for this post, please attach:

A comprehensive CV; Copies of qualifications; Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.


CLOSING DATE: 12 November 2025



No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.



ENQUIRIES: ENQUIRIES: Kgomotso Lekgari, Tel: (012) 420-2640 for application-related and Deidre Adams, Tel: (012) 420-4030 for enquiries relating to the post content.



Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 January 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.