Director Residential Services Jobs in South Africa

A director-level role at the University of the Western Cape offers an experienced student accommodation leader the chance to lead residential services at the university’s main campus in Bellville.

About the company and the work

The role is advertised by Ayanda Mbanga for the University of the Western Cape. Reporting to the Deputy Vice Chancellor: Student Development and Support, the Director: Residential Services will lead the department responsible for student housing, with three key sections: Student Housing, Administration and Placement, and Reslife. The closing date stated in the advert is 06/11/2026.

Role details and duties

• Develop and implement a comprehensive residence management and student accommodation strategy.
• Establish and maintain policies, standards and systems for effective residence management.
• Drive programmes that enhance student satisfaction, retention and overall success.
• Oversee the allocation, occupancy and maintenance of student residences.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and regulatory standards.
• Manage residence applications, fee collection and student accommodation records efficiently.
• Promote a supportive and inclusive residential environment that supports academic and personal growth.
• Collaborate with student support services on residence life programmes and wellness initiatives.
• Uphold a fair and consistent residence code of conduct and disciplinary framework.
• Partner with Infrastructure Development and other stakeholders on renovations, upgrades and new residences.
• Facilitate preventative maintenance programmes and utilities management.
• Develop, implement and monitor the departmental budget, and pursue revenue-generating opportunities.
• Implement risk mitigation strategies covering safety, emergency preparedness and facility integrity.
• Strengthen partnerships with students, parents, internal departments and external service providers, and engage with private accommodation providers to expand student housing opportunities.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or equivalent professional qualification (NQF 9).
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience at a managerial level in student residential accommodation.
• 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 listed include strategic leadership, digital acumen, financial acumen, a student-centred approach, collaboration, risk and compliance management, communication, coaching and mentoring, and change facilitation.

Where to find and apply safely

This opportunity is listed on CareerJunction, and the Apply button on this page links to the original listing. Apply only through that original listing and be wary of anyone asking for payment to secure a job.

Practical tips

• Show senior leadership of student residences across multiple sites or campuses.
• Highlight strategy, policy, budgeting and compliance work.
• Mention experience with residence operations, maintenance and student support.
• Be ready to discuss stakeholder engagement and private accommodation partnerships.

How the process works

Use the Apply button to reach the original CareerJunction listing, where you can review the full advert and submit your application. The reference for this listing is 2369, and the advert states a closing date of 06/11/2026.

Important information

This page is informational only. It summarises a third-party job advert and does not guarantee employment. Always confirm the role, pay and working arrangements with the advertiser before accepting any offer.

#SouthAfricaJobs #JobsInSouthAfrica #EducationJobs #UniversityJobs