Specialist: Marketing & Communication, Comprehensive Online Education Services (COES)

DIRECTORATE OF COMPREHENSIVE ONLINE EDUCATION SERVICES SPECIALIST: MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PEROMNES POST LEVEL 7 In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy. The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The incumbent will be responsible for leading and executing marketing and communication activities for COES, with a strong focus on digital marketing, student recruitment and brand-building for UPOnline, the University’s fully online programmes. Develop and implement integrated marketing strategies that strengthen the visibility and reputation of COES and UPOnline nationally, across Africa and internationally; Plan and manage organic and paid digital campaigns to generate enquiries and support student recruitment across channels such as Meta, Google and LinkedIn; Develop campaign objectives, key messages and user journeys in collaboration with internal stakeholders and service providers; Create and coordinate engaging content and promotional assets for digital and print platforms, including websites, social media, newsletters, videos, reports, press releases and testimonials; Monitor and analyse campaign performance, lead conversion and prospective student behaviour, and use the findings to improve future marketing activity; Maintain and quality-check COES and UPOnline websites and social media platforms, including programme pages hosted by external partners, to ensure accurate content, consistent branding and functionality; Conduct market research and competitor benchmarking to inform campaign planning and messaging; Manage marketing and communication projects, annual reports, promotional materials and selected events, including programme launches, open days, exhibitions and virtual engagement sessions; Build and maintain constructive relationships with academic and professional staff, students, service providers, external partners and other stakeholders; Prepare and manage annual marketing budgets, monitor expenditure and report on campaign return on investment; Manage and mentor marketing interns and liaise with Institutional Advancement and other stakeholders on collaborative initiatives; Ensure that marketing and communication activities comply with the University’s brand and identity.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Public Relations, Communications, or related discipline; Four years’ experience in high-level communications, digital marketing, public and media relations, and publications; Experience in the project management of a marketing and communications agenda; Financial management and budgeting experience.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES): Knowledge: Marketing trends (including digital and social media marketing); Knowledge of the higher education landscape; Public relations, communication and liaison; Press releases and liaison with the media; Journalism; Digital and print publishing; Event management; Project management; Marketing trends (including digital and social media marketing).

Technical Competencies: Marketing tools including social media (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer); Productivity tools (e.g., project management Trello, Asana, Calendly); SEO tools (e.g., search engine optimisation, keywords, Google Ads Editor); Imaging, video and design tools (e.g., camera and video/sound recording equipment, Canva, Photoshop); Email tools (e.

g., Mail. Chimp); Web design & website analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics); Proficiency in processi.g data; Event planning skills; Computer literacy; Strong verbal and written communication skills; Organisational & planning skills; Behavioural Competencies: Ability to work with diverse people with different backgrounds and post levels Multitasking in an ever-changing work environment Critical thinking and problem-solving skills Creative and innovative mindset Decision-making and leadership capabilities Expertise in conflict resolution and relationship building Organisational & planning skills, including high levels of attention to detail Adaptability and willingness to deal with change Ability to work under pressure and a tolerance for high levels of stress Positive energy with a willingness to learn ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES: Honours degree in Marketing or related discipline; At least 4 years' experience in the following: Journalism background; Search Engine Optimisation; Digital marketing; Social media; Higher Education.

Membership of communication and marketing industry bodies and associations; Driver’s Licence. PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process. The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.

UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium. Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za and follow the link: Careers@UP. In applying for this post, please attach: A comprehensive CV; Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE: 29 October 2026 No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements. ENQUIRIES: itumeleng.tshaka@up.ac.za, Tel: (012) 420 2560 for application-related enquiries, and Prof Linda van Ryneveld, Tel: (012) 420 6654 for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 28 February 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful. The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials. By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions .