Project Administrator

About

The SARChI Chair in Sustainable Rural Futures invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

The Department

The NRF–SARChI Research Chair in Sustainable Rural Futures at Rhodes University drives an interdisciplinary programme dedicated to advancing rigorous, decolonial research on the complex challenges facing rural societies in Africa. The Chair focuses on issues such as poverty and inequality, land tenure and dispossession, extractive development, climate vulnerability, agrarian change, and rural–urban dynamics, with a strong emphasis on social and ecological justice.

The programme seeks to generate impactful knowledge that informs policy and contributes to more equitable and sustainable rural futures. It also prioritises the development of innovative analytical approaches and the training of the next generation of scholars equipped to address rural development challenges in Africa.

To support these objectives, the Chair seeks to appoint a dynamic and energetic Project Administrator. The successful candidate will play a critical role in coordinating research activities, managing financial and operational processes, and overseeing day-to-day administration. This position is central to ensuring the effective implementation of the programme and the achievement of its strategic goals.

Main Objectives

• To provide effective and efficient financial and administrative control and reporting for the designated research group (NRF SARChI Chair) per the University’s and funders’ policies and procedures, and to produce accurate and timeous financial reports prepared per university and funders’ guidelines.
• To provide efficient and practical support to a large research group working in a socially sensitive research area, including several academics, researchers, post-docs, and postgraduate students.

Requirements

• Grade 12 with approximately four years of relevant experience.
• A post-matric qualification will be advantageous.
• The required experience should include:
  • Previous experience which demonstrates a thorough understanding of financial management and accounting principles, with the ability to consolidate sets of accounts in the required format/s in an electronic environment
  • The ability to investigate and reconcile multiple accounts is essential
  • Previous experience in working within a computerised accounting environment and having worked with Excel at an advanced level
  • Previous experience in working with word processing (including being able to create and maintain databases), e-mail and the Internet
  • Previous experience in setting up and maintaining filing and administrative systems.
  • Previous experience in the use of social media for marketing purposes, update and maintain websites, and creating graphics.
  • Candidates who have Personal Assistance experience and/or media management would be an advantage
  • Ability to organize functions and events.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following:
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
  • A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job

Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

• Short-listing meeting scheduled for 27 May 2026.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 10):

Total Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R346 921.95

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three-years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 8 May 2026

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are:

• Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.