Organization: Universities South Africa (USAf)
Location: Pretoria, South Africa
Type: Fixed-term contract
Remuneration: Market-related salary package
Closing date: 21 November 2025

About Universities South Africa (USAf)

Universities South Africa (USAf) is the national association representing all public universities in South Africa. The organization advances the interests of higher education institutions through advocacy, strategic research, and sector support services, while promoting collaboration among universities and key partners.

Based in Pretoria, USAf operates as a non-profit organization, funded by membership fees, contract management services, and donor support.

Position Summary

The Admin Officer and PA to the Director of Entrepreneurship will play a key role within the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme — an initiative that empowers universities to foster entrepreneurship and innovation.

This role provides comprehensive administrative and personal assistant support to the Director of Entrepreneurship, ensuring efficient management of daily operations, coordination of meetings and events, and communication with internal and external stakeholders.

It offers an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented, proactive individual to contribute to a national initiative that impacts the higher education and entrepreneurship ecosystem across South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

A relevant diploma or equivalent qualification in Business Administration or related field.

At least 2 years’ administrative experience, including 1 year supporting a senior manager (preferably in higher education).

Demonstrated ability to organize and manage office operations efficiently.

Experience handling enquiries, maintaining records and filing systems (physical and digital).

Proven experience in organizing meetings, workshops, and events (virtual and physical).

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and professional document formatting.

Strong command of the English language and professional email etiquette.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

Technical competence in venue setup, meeting logistics, and presentation management is advantageous.

Key Personal Attributes

Consistent and reliable

Detail-oriented and organized

Positive, adaptable, and proactive

Strong follow-through and commitment to completing tasks efficiently

Key Responsibilities

Administrative Support

Manage general office functions, including procurement of supplies and consumables.

Coordinate travel and accommodation logistics.

Maintain diaries and schedule appointments.

Liaise with stakeholders, suppliers, and colleagues on behalf of the Director.

Track and process correspondence and documentation.

Collect and compile content from universities and partners.

Manage courier and mail services.

Meeting & Event Coordination

Schedule and manage internal and external meetings.

Send invitations and coordinate RSVPs.

Draft agendas, take and distribute minutes, and prepare meeting packs.

Research and book suitable venues.

Set up and manage technology for physical and virtual meetings.

Arrange catering and ensure smooth on-site logistics.

Support to the Director of Entrepreneurship

Provide diary and meeting management support.

Handle phone calls and emails on behalf of the Director.

Prepare briefing documents and meeting materials.

Manage correspondence and follow-ups efficiently.

Ad Hoc Tasks

Assist the Director and the EDHE team with additional duties as required.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

A letter of motivation, and

A comprehensive CV (including contact details for at least three traceable referees)

to [email protected] by close of business on 21 November 2025.

Note:

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Applicants who have not received feedback by 31 January 2026 should consider their application unsuccessful.

Candidates from designated groups, including persons with disabilities, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Universities South Africa reserves the right not to make an appointment.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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