UCT Is Hiring: Personal Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is seeking an experienced and professional Personal Assistant (PA) to support the Vice-Chancellor (VC), the University’s most senior executive leader.
This position plays a vital role in ensuring the effective and professional functioning of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor (OVC).

The PA will act as a trusted contact for a broad range of internal and external stakeholders, managing sensitive information, complex schedules, and high-level correspondence with the utmost discretion, diplomacy, and efficiency.

Personal Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor Job Overview

• Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
• Position: Personal Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor
• Department: Office of the Vice-Chancellor
• Type: Permanent
• Closing Date: 17 October 2025
• Requisition ID: 1159
• Salary Range: R513 345 – R603 933 per annum (cost to company)

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive administrative support to the Vice-Chancellor and ensure smooth day-to-day office operations.
• Manage and coordinate the VC’s diary, schedule, and documentation to enable effective decision-making.
• Coordinate local and international travel, logistics, and special events.
• Draft and proofread official correspondence, minutes, agendas, and reports.
• Act as a liaison between the VC’s office and internal or external stakeholders.
• Assist with financial processes related to the VC’s operational and project budgets.
• Support meetings, events, and special projects aligned with UCT’s strategic goals.
• Uphold the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and communication.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for this prestigious role, applicants must have:

• A relevant qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher.
• At least 10 years of recent professional experience providing high-level executive support.
• Proven ability to manage complex diaries, priorities, and logistics in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, and intermediate proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and the ability to interact professionally with diverse audiences.
• A high degree of confidentiality, initiative, and professionalism.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and travel nationally or internationally when required.

Advantageous Skills and Experience

• Familiarity with academic processes and governance in higher education.
• Previous experience supporting an executive leader within a university or large organisation.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace (Google Suite) and other digital productivity tools.

Why Join UCT?

As one of Africa’s leading universities, UCT offers an inclusive and dynamic working environment where excellence, innovation, and collaboration are encouraged.
The successful candidate will contribute to the strategic leadership of the institution by supporting the Vice-Chancellor in driving key initiatives and engagements.

Career Insight: How to Excel as an Executive Assistant in Higher Education

Being a Personal Assistant to a Vice-Chancellor requires more than administrative skills, it demands strategic thinking, professionalism, and adaptability. Here are tips to thrive in this high-profile role:

1. Master Time Management: Prioritise competing commitments and maintain an organised calendar.
2. Develop Strong Communication Skills: Articulate ideas clearly in writing and verbally, and engage professionally with diverse stakeholders.
3. Be Discreet and Confidential: Executive roles require handling sensitive information with care.
4. Understand the Academic Environment: Knowledge of university governance, policies, and culture helps you anticipate the VC’s needs.
5. Embrace Technology: Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and other productivity tools is essential.
6. Stay Flexible and Adaptable: High-level executives have dynamic schedules and travel requirements — adaptability is key.
7. Build Strong Relationships: Foster collaboration with colleagues, departments, and external partners.
8. Be Proactive: Anticipate challenges, track actions, and resolve issues before they escalate.

Excelling in this role can open doors to senior administrative or leadership positions within higher education and beyond.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply through the UCT Careers Portal: www.jobs.uct.ac.za

When submitting your application, please ensure you include the following:

1. A letter of motivation highlighting your qualifications and relevant experience.
2. A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) with at least three contactable referees, including your most recent line manager if possible.

For enquiries about the application process, contact:
Ms Abigail Dixon — abigail.dixon@uct.ac.za
021 650 1673

Learn More: Tell Me About Yourself: How to Answer with the S.E.A.T. Method

Employment Equity

UCT is a designated employer and committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion. Preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups, in line with the University’s Employment Equity Plan and policy: UCT Employment Equity Policy.

UCT reserves the right not to make an appointment.