MANAGER: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS - TRANSFORMATION AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

Introduction

The Manager: Strategic Partnerships is responsible for developing, managing, and strengthening strategic partnerships that advance the University's strategic objectives, enhance institutional visibility and reputation, promote graduate employability, strengthen alumni relations, and support fundraising and resource mobilisation initiatives. The incumbent will establish and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with industry, government, funding agencies, donors, alumni, professional bodies, community organisations, and other strategic stakeholders. The role further ensures the effective monitoring and evaluation of partnership impact, sustainability, and value creation while positioning the University as a preferred partner for collaboration, innovation, research, teaching, learning, and community engagement.

Duties & Responsibilities

KEY ACTIVITIES

• Strategic Partnership Development and Management

• Institutional Visibility and Reputation Enhancement

• Employability and Industry Engagement

• Alumni Relations and Engagement

• Fundraising, Sponsorship and Donor Relations

• Monitoring and Evaluation of Partnerships

• Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management

• Governance, Compliance and Reporting

Desired Experience & Qualification

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Strategic Management, Public Relations, Marketing, Development Studies, Public Administration, Commerce, or a relevant field.

• Minimum of 5 years' relevant experience in partnership development, stakeholder relations, business development, fundraising, alumni relations, donor management, or external engagement.

• At least 3 years' management or supervisory experience.

• Proven experience in building and managing strategic partnerships and stakeholder networks.

PREFERENCES

• A relevant postgraduate qualification in Stakeholder Management, Fundraising, Development, or Partnership Management will be advantageous.

• Experience in fundraising, sponsorship acquisition, or donor relations will be advantageous.

• Experience within the higher education sector will be an added advantage.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Knowledge

• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management.

• Fundraising and donor management practices.

• Monitoring and evaluation methodologies.

• Contract and partnership management.

• Project management principles.

Skills

• Negotiation and partnership development skills.

• Communication and presentation skills.

• Report writing and proposal development.

• Event management and stakeholder coordination.

• Interpersonal and diplomacy skills.

• Leadership and people management skills.

Behaviour / Attributes

• Conceptual thinking

• Analytic Problem-Solving

• Results orientation

• Problem/Situation Analysis

• Balanced Decision-making

Package & Remuneration

Total Remuneration Package inclusive of Benefits (13th Cheque, Medical Aid, Pension Fund, Group Life, Housing Allowance) and Study Benefits.