Senior Manager: Academic Planning

To assist the Director of Academic Planning and Quality Advancement in the facilitation of processes relating to the development and approval of a high quality, nationally responsive and globally competitive programme qualification mix (PQM) for the University in alignment with institutional strategic imperatives and external regulatory requirements.

• Implement effective and efficient administrative processes for academic programme development, approval and accreditation in accordance with University policies and national regulatory frameworks.
• Assist the Director Academic Planning and Quality Advancement by providing information, advice and support to academic and professional support staff with respect to academic programme development, approval and accreditation.
• Implement processes to prepare academic programmes and qualifications timeously for submission to external regulatory bodies for approval, accreditation and registration through applicable mechanisms, such as the HEQC online accreditation system.
• Liaise with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC), South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and professional councils (where relevant) to facilitate the approval and accreditation of academic programmes and qualifications.
• Monitor internal and external processes relating to the development, approval and accreditation of academic programmes and/or modules.
• Maintain an electronic, web-based database to track programme approval and accreditation processes and outcomes at an institutional level.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Solid understanding of trends relevant to academic planning and programme development in a South African and global higher education context.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African higher education policy and regulatory framework, particularly as it pertains to academic programme planning, development and accreditation.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively and professionally with internal and external stakeholders at various levels within a higher education context.
• Demonstrated ability to be approachable and open-minded in providing expert advice and academic planning support to academic leadership and staff.
• Meticulous organisational skills and the ability to take initiative and adhere to tight deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Excellent verbal, written and electronic communication skills, including academic report writing and presentation skills.

• M+3, preferably in a relevant field (e.g. Education, Social Sciences)
• Honours / master’s degree in the relevant field (e.g. Education, Social Sciences) will be an advantage
• At least three (3) years’ experience in a higher education academic planning environment or an academic environment where competence in programme design has been acquired
• A thorough knowledge of the South African regulatory framework and policy requirements relating to academic programme and qualification design and accreditation by the DHET, HEQC, SAQA and professional councils
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organisational and project management skills
• Excellent computer literacy skills (MS Office) and experience in using the HEQC online accreditation system

DISCLAIMER: Nelson Mandela University is a designated employer committed to pursuing excellence, diversity, inclusion, and redress in achieving its employment equity targets. Preference will be given to suitably qualified (Race and Gender) candidates in accordance with the University's employment equity targets. No applications will be accepted after the closing date Friday, 30 January 2026.