Director (P5): Facilities and Services
Sol Plaatje University
Kimberley, Northern Cape
Permanent
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Posted 22 August 2025 - Closing Date 09 September 2025

Job Details

Job Description

Purpose
The purpose of this position is to meet the strategic objectives and goals of the department through the management of Protection Services, Logistics/Transport Services, Building Maintenance, Grounds Maintenance and Campus Cleaning Services, Printing Services, and Postal Services. Further responsibilities include people management, budget and financial management, and health and safety management.

Minimum Requirements
  • Relevant Postgraduate qualification Degree (NQF08).
  • 8 to 10 years of relevant experience.
  • Experience in a higher education setting would be an advantage.
  • A broad knowledge of the University environment, national higher education policies and protocols, and expert knowledge of trends and developments in the higher education sector in general will be advantageous.
  • Has a successful record of leadership and teamwork.
  • Has the ability to mobilize and inspire others towards shared goals.
  • Must be able to think strategically and operationalise this into plans and projects.
  • Must be to plan and manage budgets.
  • Computer skills (MS Office suite).
  • Valid Driver’s License.
Duties and responsibilities 

Strategy development and execution
  • Actively support the Chief Operating Officer in the achievement of the Facilities and Services strategic objectives
  • Participate in the continuous review of the University strategy to align the Directorate’s plans with the overall University strategy
  • Oversee that all the Directorate’s operations are in line and contribute towards the realization of the University's strategy
  • Support and guide the following portfolios: Protection Services, Transport Services, Maintenance, Grounds maintenance and cleaning, Printing services, Postal services, Occupational Health and Safety. 
  • Embed an institutional and performance culture that supports the implementation of the SPU mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities
  • Drive the induction of all new and current staff in Facilities and Services on: SPU vision, mission, values, and strategic priorities, Strategic priorities of the Section
Operations management
  • Monitor the implementation and provision of an effective campus protection service.
  • Ensure an efficient and effective fleet and operations management that supports SPU in meeting its strategic objectives.
  • Oversee the planned and unplanned maintenance at the University
  • Coordinate and manage the provision of printing services to all University Departments at all learning sites.
  • Render grounds maintenance and campus cleaning services according to contracted SLA’s.
  • Institute the outsourcing of specific services and negotiate agreements with appropriate service providers in terms of agreed-upon outsourcing plans.
  • Determine the long-term, medium- and short-term needs of the centralised postal and courier services of the University.
Policy and procedure management
  • Provide input into the review of current policies and procedures and the development of new policies and procedures where necessary.
  • Provide continuous feedback to line management and staff on implementation practices related to policies and procedures.
Quality Assurance and Risk Management. 
  • Quality Assurance.
  • Risk Management. 
Health and safety and employee wellbeing. 
  • Ensure compliance with SHE policies and procedures. 
Resource Management: Human Resources
  • Lead, manage and develop direct reports.
  • Review structures for its appropriateness to assist the Facilities and Services department in achieving its strategic priorities.
  • Develop the Department’s workforce plans together with HR to ensure adequate resource planning, budgeted and are aligned to transformation targets.
  • Provide oversight in the recruitment and selection process for direct reports.
  • Support the achievement of equity targets and the transformation of the institutional culture.
  • Oversee the induction and probation of all new staff.
  • Drive performance contracts and regular reviews for all staff.
  • Provide oversight in the training of all staff on the performance management process and system.
  • Implement performance contracts for all staff and ensure regular reviews.
  • Drive the staff development conversations and development plans.
  • Develop a training budget for training needs.
  • Drive and promote sound employment relations.
  • Human resource administration.
  • Manage staff leave as per SPU policy.
  • Sign off on relevant documentation needed.
Resource Management: Budget and Finance
  • Develop the Department’s Budget and provide sound financial management.
  • Prepare and report on: Annual staffing and operating budget, and capex.
  • Manage expenditure according to the approved annual budget.
Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
  • Drive the effective implementation of reporting systems.
  • Monitor organisational health indicators, identify problem/ concern areas and communicate to relevant stakeholders.
  • Develop relevant reports as and when required.
  • Research and implement best practices.
  • Analyse statistical data in order to generate appropriate proactive responses.Submit additional reports/data as required by legislation and/or the University.

Enquiries can be made via email at [email protected]

Assumption of duties: As mutually agreed to upon acceptance of the appointment. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. This position may be subjected to assessments.

Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Note: Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is dedicated to meeting its Employment Equity targets.