Director: Residential Services – University of the Western Cape

Cape Town, South AfricaFull-timeExecutiveOn-sitePosted 28 Oct 2026

Job Overview

The University of the Western Cape is appointing a Director: Residential Services (post 2369) at its Main Campus in Bellville, Cape Town (CareerJunction 2646656; posted 27 October 2026; closing date 6 November 2026). Within Student Development and Support (SDS), Residential Services creates a holistic, enabling, value-driven and student-centred environment in which students thrive academically, socially and personally, and oversees the strategic and operational management of three sections: Student Housing, Administration & Placement, and Reslife.

Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Student Development and Support, the Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of all residence-related functions across the University – setting the residence management and student accommodation strategy, policies and systems; overseeing allocation, occupancy, maintenance and compliance; partnering with Infrastructure Development on renovations, upgrades and new residences; managing the departmental budget and revenue opportunities; and leading risk, safety and stakeholder engagement, including with private accommodation providers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive residence management and student accommodation strategy aligned with UWC’s mission

• Establish and maintain policies, standards and systems for effective residence management; implement the integrated talent management framework

• Drive programmes that enhance student satisfaction, retention and success; uphold a fair residence code of conduct and disciplinary framework

• Oversee allocation, occupancy and maintenance of student residences, applications, fee collection and accommodation records

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and regulatory standards; implement risk mitigation and emergency preparedness

• Partner with Infrastructure Development on renovations, upgrades and new residence projects; drive preventative maintenance and utilities management

• Develop, implement and monitor the departmental budget and pursue revenue-generating opportunities

• Collaborate with student support services on residence life and wellness programmes

• Strengthen partnerships with students, parents, departments and private accommodation providers; represent the University on committees and forums

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent professional qualification (NQF 9)

• Minimum 10 years’ experience at managerial level in student residential accommodation, residence administration or a related environment

• Experience in higher education or a multi-campus environment

• Knowledge of South African legislation governing student housing, health and safety

• Additional training or certification in property, facilities or project management

• Competencies: strategic leadership, digital and financial acumen, student-centred approach, risk and compliance management, coaching and change facilitation

Skills & Requirements

Strategic LeadershipStudent Housing ManagementResidence LifeHigher Education AdministrationFacilities ManagementBudget ManagementRisk & Compliance ManagementHealth & Safety ComplianceStakeholder EngagementCoaching & MentoringChange FacilitationFinancial Acumen