Specialist Writer (Post Level 8) (Job ID: 6220)

This post was previously advertised as Job ID: 6171 and 6178. All applications received in response to the previous advertisements will automatically be considered. Previous applicants therefore do not need to reapply.

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements as well as the following standard documentation:
A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
Copies of your qualifications or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications please include SAQA accreditation).
A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter appointment contract service certificate or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

Duties and responsibilities:

Content Strategy Development
Develop and execute a strategic content plan for the Department of Communication and Marketing (DCM) in alignment with the DCMs Communication and Marketing Strategy and the universitys communication goals vision and values.
High-Impact Writing and Editing:
Support the Vice-Chancellor and Principals stakeholder engagement programme and content calendar by producing high-level speeches articles and digital content for use by the DCMs Content Hub. This includes research on topics and engaging with relevant role-players to source information.
Support the universitys Executive Communication Strategy by producing high-level content such as speeches articles and social media content. This includes research on topics analysis of content relevant content and engaging with members of the executive committee.
Write a broad range of high-quality written materials including feature stories opinion pieces research breakthroughs and digital content for the DCMs Content Hub. This includes collaboration with faculties and other stakeholders to source content.
Craft compelling narratives that reflect the universitys tone and brand voice that will engage a wide range of audiences from prospective students and alumni to media outlets and public stakeholders.
Actively participate in and contribute to the DCMs Content Hub curating and optimising content across platforms for cohesive communication. This includes ensuring timely presentation of all content in multimedia formats enhancing usability across digital print and social media platforms.
Assist the news editor with Content Hub duties (chairing news list publications and platform productions).
Assist the Assistant Director: Internal Communication with the production of institutional magazines such as the Bult and Dumela.
Conduct regular reviews of institutional content updating and refining language to reflect the universitys evolving priorities and vision.
Provide guidance on writing and editing best practices to the DCMs Content Hub to ensure quality and consistency across all communication channels.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
Serve as a writer for the Vice-Chancellor and Principal and members of the universitys executive management translating leaderships vision and ideas into impactful communication according to the universitys Executive Communication Strategy.
Work closely with departmental heads academic leaders and external partners to develop and refine content that supports the UFSs goals.
Establish strong working relationships with other departments to ensure alignment and to promote cross-functional initiatives.
Project Management and Conceptualising Integrated Communication Campaigns and Projects
Oversee and execute the end-to-end management of high-priority campaigns projects ensuring timely delivery and alignment with strategic priorities.
Draft and execute communication plans for key institutional intergrade communication campaigns and projects.
Coordinate the production of visually compelling materials for departmental integrated communication campaigns and projects in cooperation with the Unit for Reputation Brand and Marketing Management.
Develop timelines and content calendars for major communication initiatives ensuring alignment with university milestones.
Market Research and Benchmarking:
Stay informed on industry best practices higher education trends and emerging communication platforms to enhance content effectiveness.
Conduct research on peer institutions communications and adapt innovative strategies that align with UFSs objectives.
Track and analyse content performance metrics adjusting strategies based on data insights and audience feedback.

Inherent requirements:
Bachelors degree/BTech/Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7).
Minimum of three (3) years relevant working experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.
Extensive experience in content research and speech writing on an executive level for the higher education or corporate sectors.

Recommendations:
Experience in content research and writing high-quality impactful content for the higher education sector including the writing of speeches and opinion articles.
Familiarity with multimedia production including digital content creation.
Basic project management skills.
Prior experience in public relations with a focus on institutional communication.
Advanced computer skills especially in MS Word and PowerPoint.
Basic photography skills.

Required competencies:
Results Orientated:
- The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
- The ability to be reliable responsible dependable and to fulfil obligations.
Strategic Thinking:
- The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
- The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
Business Acumen:
- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.
Leading:
- The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation energy and enthusiasm.
- The ability to be cooperative with others display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
Building Coalitions:
- The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
- The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible.

Closing date:
17 August 2025

Salary:
The salary is available on request.

Fringe benefits:
(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme medical aid scheme group life insurance housing allowance leave and sick leave service bonus and study benefits.

Enquiries:
For enquiries please feel free to contact or email or . Additionally kindly contact / 9810/ 9848 for assistance.

General:
The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence diversity and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Plan is available at: EEA13-UFS EE Plan 1 March 202528 Feb

The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.

The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.