SENIOR MANAGER: COMMUNICATIONS AND ADVOCACY

SENIOR MANAGER: COMMUNICATIONS AND ADVOCACY

Closing Date: June 9, 2025
All Inclusive Salary Package: R1 216 824 – R1 433 355 per annum
Benefits: All-inclusive remuneration package of R1 216 824 – R1 433 355 per annum. The successful candidate may structure the total package for a 13th cheque. The employer’s contribution towards Housing, Medical Aid, and Pension is included in the total package.
Contract Type: Permanent
Objective: The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is a statutory public entity, an oversight body of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Act, No. 67 of 2008. The entity is charged with developing, fostering and maintaining an integrated and transparent national framework for the recognition of learning achievements, ensuring that:

• South African qualifications meet appropriate criteria and are internationally comparable.
• The country’s qualifications are of acceptable quality.
• The quality of education and training is enhanced.
• Access, mobility and progression within education, training and career paths are realised.

SAQA seeks to appoint a Senior Manager: Communications and Advocacy to lead the development and execution of SAQA’s integrated communication strategy, drive strategic media relations, and represent SAQA at key governmental, industry and stakeholder engagements. This position reports to the Chief Operating Officer.
Requirements are:

Minimum Qualifications

  • An appropriate, recognised qualification at NQF level 8, with preference for a qualification in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing or equivalent.
  • A relevant NQF level 9 qualification will be an advantage.

Minimum Experience

  • Eight years’ relevant work experience, of which five must be in a management position.
  • International experience and exposure in the Education sector will be an advantage.

Knowledge, skills and competencies

  • Stakeholder relations management.
  • Digital Marketing.
  • Communication and Media strategy development and implementation.
  • Strategic leadership.
  • Transformational leadership with strong influence.
  • Business acumen.
  • Resilience, attention to detail and sound judgement.
  • Good knowledge of the Education sector legislative and regulatory environment.
  • People Management.
Key performance areas:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with SAQA’s mandate.
  • Provide strategic advice to the executive team on media, public relations, and communication trends.
  • Oversee the planning and execution of communication campaigns and events.
  • Ensure consistent and engaging content across digital platforms.
  • Manage SAQA’s response to media inquiries and crisis communication scenarios.
  • Drive innovation in digital and traditional communication platforms.
  • Build and maintain strong stakeholder relations.
  • Represent SAQA at national and international Advocacy forums.
  • Facilitate strategic collaborations and partnerships.
  • Develop and manage the unit’s budget.
  • Oversee internal and external reporting.
  • Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
  • Manage, mentor and guide staff.
  • Foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Manage the stakeholder relations.
  • Provide strategic advice to the Executives.

SAQA will verify credit and criminal records as well as qualifications.
SAQA reserves the right not to make an appointment to the advertised post and will only communicate with short listed candidates.

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