Job Description

Job Title
Specialist Writer - Department of Communication and Marketing (Post Level 8) (Job ID: 6178)
Organizational Unit
University of the Free State -> Vice- Chancellor and Principal -> Communication and Marketing
Contract Type
Permanent
Occupational Level
Junior Management
Location
Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date
1/7/2025
Description

This post was previously advertised as Job ID: 6171. The purpose of this readvertisement is to provide a more detailed outline of the duties and responsibilities. All applications received in response to the previous advertisement, will automatically be considered. Previous applicants, therefore, do not need to reapply.

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.The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!

To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:

A detailed Curriculum Vitae. Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation). A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals). Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

Duties and responsibilities:

Content Strategy Development

Develop and execute a strategic content plan for the Department of Communication and Marketing (DCM) in alignment with the DCM's Communication and Marketing Strategy and the university's communication goals, vision, and values.

High-Impact Writing and Editing

Support the Vice-Chancellor and Principal's stakeholder engagement programme and content calendar by producing high-level speeches, articles, and digital content for use by the DCM's Content Hub. This includes research on topics and engaging with relevant role-players to source information. Support the university's Executive Communication Strategy by producing high-level content such as speeches, articles, and social media content. This includes research on topics, analysis of content relevant content, and engaging with members of the executive committee. Write a broad range of high-quality written materials including feature stories, opinion pieces, research breakthroughs, and digital content for the DCM's Content Hub. This includes collaboration with faculties and other stakeholders to source content. Craft compelling narratives that reflect the university's tone and brand voice that will engage a wide range of audiences, from prospective students and alumni to media outlets and public stakeholders. Actively participate in and contribute to the DCM's Content Hub, curating and optimising content across platforms for cohesive communication. This includes ensuring timely presentation of all content in multimedia formats, enhancing usability across digital, print, and social media platforms. Assist the news editor with Content Hub duties (chairing, news list, publications and platform productions). Assist the Assistant Director: Internal Communication with the production of institutional magazines such as the Bult and Dumela. Conduct regular reviews of institutional content, updating and refining language to reflect the university's evolving priorities and vision. Provide guidance on writing and editing best practices to the DCM's Content Hub to ensure quality and consistency across all communication channels.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

Serve as a writer for the Vice-Chancellor and Principal and members of the university's executive management, translating leadership's vision and ideas into impactful communication according to the university's Executive Communication Strategy. Work closely with departmental heads, academic leaders, and external partners to develop and refine content that supports the UFS's goals. Establish strong working relationships with other departments to ensure alignment and to promote cross-functional initiatives.

Project Management and Conceptualising Integrated Communication Campaigns and Projects

Oversee and execute the end-to-end management of high-priority campaigns, projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with strategic priorities. Draft and execute communication plans for key institutional intergrade communication campaigns and projects. Coordinate the production of visually compelling materials for departmental integrated communication campaigns and projects in cooperation with the Unit for Reputation, Brand, and Marketing Management. Develop timelines and content calendars for major communication initiatives, ensuring alignment with university milestones.

Market Research and Benchmarking

Stay informed on industry best practices, higher education trends, and emerging communication platforms to enhance content effectiveness. Conduct research on peer institutions' communications and adapt innovative strategies that align with UFS's objectives. Track and analyse content performance metrics, adjusting strategies based on data insights and audience feedback.

Inherent requirements:

Bachelor's degree/BTech/Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in Journalism/ Media Studies/ Communication, or a related field. Minimum of three (3) years' relevant working experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.

Recommendations:

Extensive experience in content research and writing in the higher education sector at a senior level. Proven record of producing high-quality, impactful content across a broad range of topics. Experience in speechwriting. Familiarity with multimedia production, including digital content creation. Basic project management skills. Prior experience in public relations, with a focus on institutional communication. Experience in a higher education environment is preferred. Advanced computer skills, especially in MS Word and PowerPoint. Basic photography skills.

Competencies

Required competencies:

Results Orientated:

The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations. The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.

o Strategic Thinking:

The ability to deal with several activities at a time. The ability to plan work and to follow plans.

o Business Acumen:

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

o 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.

o Building Coalitions:

The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations. The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Assumption of duties:

01 August 2025 or as soon as possible.

Closing date:

1 July 2025

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 2979 / 9810/ 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 Plan is available at:

EEA13-UFS EE Plan 1 March 2025_28 Feb 2026.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.