Head of Department: Private Law

Description:

The University of Fort Hare is seeking to appoint a Head of Department (HOD) who will oversee the management of academic curricula, staff, and student administration processes in alignment with institutional policies, rules, and faculty guidelines. The incumbent will lead and manage the department to realize its full potential, ensuring excellence across all areas of academic activity. This role is integral to the Universitys leadership, requiring the HOD to understand and contribute to the broader University Strategic Plan, including its vision, mission, goals, and targets, while also managing the daily operations of the department within the Faculty.

This is a 3-year appointment, with the possibility of renewal for one additional 3-year term, contingent upon maintaining good academic standing and a satisfactory performance assessment.

Minimum Requirements:

A Doctoral Degree Senior Lecturer rank level, but preferably at Associate Professor or Professor level 5 years experience in the higher education sector, of which 2 years in an academic leadership role Extensive undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and research experience A credible track record of high-quality academic work A track record of international and national accredited research publications commensurate with the academic rank of Senior Lecturer, Associates Professor or Full Professor Postgraduate supervision experience including successful Doctoral supervision commensurate with the academic rank of Senior Lecturer, Associates Professor or Full Professor Evidence of successful national / international fundraising for research Experience of effectively line-managing individual members of staff and teams.
Added Advantages
Recognition as an established scholar in a chosen area of research (e.g., NRF rating, international keynote addresses/ plenary lectures). Experience in managing budgets and academic programmes (Research and Teaching). Familiarity with the administrative and management systems of the University.
Skills and Competencies:

Strong interpersonal communication skills including negotiation and influencing. Ability to manage difficult situations. Ability to set and communicate a clear vision and expectations for departmental and individual performance. Good decision-making skills, Integrity, keeping promises, following through on commitments, demonstrating the values expected of others. Commitment to excellence in academic endeavors. Commitment to nurturing talent, recognizing contributions and providing opportunities for professional development. Commitment to challenging poor performance and inappropriate behavior. Qualification / course