Job Description

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Provide writing support through focused specialist corporate writing, e.g., opinion articles and thought-leadership articles aligned with institutional themes and objectives.
• Gather information, expert input, and other material to write content for various channels.
• Research, analyse and write articles for targeted communication platforms and campaigns.
• Provide support for digital communication through focused specialist corporate writing for the UFS website and social media.
• Provide writing support for corporate brand identity activities through focused specialist public relations content.
• Participate in the Department of Communication and Marketing's Content Hub and curate content for the communication platforms.
• Ensure that all content is presented timeously and in a multimedia format to optimise its use on the various communication platforms.

Inherent requirements:

• A Bachelor's degree or an advanced diploma/BTech degree/postgraduate certificate on NQF Level 7 in Journalism/ Media Studies/ Communication or a related field.
• A minimum of two (2) years relevant working experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.

Recommendations:

• Valid driver's licence.
• Proof of extensive research, writing and media production experience at a senior level.
• Demonstrative experience in a media/corporate communication environment.
• Proof of writing about a diverse range of topics.
• Proof of experience as a speech writer.
• Proof of multimedia production experience.
• Experience in a Public Relations environment.
• Work experience in the higher education environment.
• Proven proficiency in business writing and experience in writing relevant content for digital and print channels/publications.
• Knowledge of industry best practices.
• Advanced computer skills in MS Word and PowerPoint.

Competencies

Required competencies:

• Results-oriented.

- The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and work to achieve success.
- The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.

• Strategic thinking.

- The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
- The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.

• Business Acumen:

- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.

• Leading.

- The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy, and enthusiasm.
- The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

• Building coalitions

- The ability to negotiate, sell, influence and to persuade others.
- The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.

Please ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application.

• A detailed curriculum vitae and cover letter.
• Copies of qualifications (please provide the SAQA accreditation in the case of foreign qualifications).
• A copy of your identity document (ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals).
• Proof of registration with a Professional Body (if applicable).
• A copy of your driver's license (if applicable).
• Confirmation of employment from current employer / last employer if unemployed (only applicable to external applicants).

Assumption of duties:
1 February 2024.

Closing date:
13 December 2023.

Salary:
The salary is available on request.

Fringe benefits:
(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and study benefits.

Enquiries:
For enquiries, please feel free to contact 051 401 9814 or email MakolaCM@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 9857/ 9810 / 9813/ 9848 for assistance.

General:
The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups, including candidates with disabilities.

Our Employment Equity Policy is available at: EEA13_EE Plan UFS 1 March 2022 (003).pdf

The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.

The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

Additional Information

University of the Free State