The Office of the Senior Director: Marketing and Communication wishes to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced Deputy Director: Communication. The Deputy Director: Communication is responsible for developing and implementing Walter Sisulu University’s internal and external communication strategies. The role ensures that all communication initiatives effectively promote WSU’s brand, protect its reputation, and strengthen stakeholder engagement in line with the University’s Vision 2030 and strategic priorities. The incumbent will oversee media relations, publications, corporate messaging, and digital communication platforms, ensuring consistency of voice, tone, and brand across all communication channels.
Minimum Requirements:
Qualifications:
- An Honour’s degree (NQF 8) in Communication, Public Relations or Journalism.
- A bachelor’s degree (NQF7) with ten (10) years of relevant experience may be considered.
Experience:
- 8 years of experience in communications, media or public relations, of which 3 years must be at a management or supervisory level, preferably within a higher education or public sector environment.
- Valid driver's license.
Key Performance Areas:
Strategic Communication Management
- Develop, implement, and monitor the University’s comprehensive communication strategy aligned with WSU’s strategic goals.
- Provide strategic advice to executive and senior management on communication, reputation, and stakeholder issues. Ensure alignment and integration between internal, external, and digital communications.
Media Relations and Reputation Management
- Manage proactive and reactive media engagement to position WSU positively.
- Oversee the drafting of media statements, speeches, and responses to media queries.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local, national, and higher education media outlets.
- Monitor media coverage and advise on crisis communication interventions.
Internal Communication and Employee Engagement
- Develop and manage effective internal communication systems and platforms to enhance transparency and staff engagement.
- Support executive messages and leadership communications across campuses.
- Oversee the production of internal newsletters, circulars, and announcements.
Publications, Writing and Editing
- Oversee the production of institutional publications (e.g., annual reports, newsletters, magazines, brochures, and speeches).
- Ensure content quality, accuracy, and alignment with the University’s editorial standards and brand identity.
Digital and Online Communication
- Oversee and enhance the University’s online presence, including the official website and social media platforms.
- Ensure timely, relevant, and brand-consistent digital content.
- Develop digital communication campaigns that engage stakeholders and promote institutional priorities.
Leadership and People Management
- Lead, supervise, and mentor the communication team.
- Coordinate communication officers across campuses to ensure message coherence.
- Manage performance, staff development, and resource allocation within the communication unit.
Stakeholder and Community Engagement
- Support engagement with students, staff, alumni, government, and community stakeholders through effective communication initiatives.
Skills and Competencies Required:
- Strategic communication planning and implementation.
- Media and stakeholder relations.
- Strong writing, editing, and content development skills.
- Digital and social media management expertise.
- Crisis communication and issues management.
- Budget management
- Staff supervision, performance management, and team leadership
- Excellent interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
- Strategic and critical thinking
- Brand and reputation management
- Leadership and team management
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Integrity and confidentiality
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Innovation and adaptability
Interested applicants should send their applications together with detailed Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of academic qualifications, full academic record and ID Copy and the names and contact details of three referees, using the advert reference number to the Human Resources Department via email to wsurecruit@wsu.ac.za
Telephonic enquiries: (043) 703 8538, Mrs S. Daniels
Date Issued: 10 March 2026 Closing Date: 16 March 2026
NB: Applicants who have previously applied, need not re-apply.
Applicants who have not been informed about the outcome of their application within two months from the closing date may regard their application as having been unsuccessful. Late applications will not be accepted.
“WSU is committed to Employment Equity and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply”.
