Vice Chancellor’s Personal Assistant
Job Description
VICE CHANCELLOR’S PERSONAL ASSISTANT
Reporting to the Vice Chancellor, the Personal Assistant provides high-level administrative and operational support to the Vice-Chancellor whose activities are multi-dimensional, extremely complex and externally visible, and are paramount to the success, reputation and integrity of the University.
Duties and Responsibilities
Duties and Responsibilities:
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT:
Coordinate the Vice-Chancellor’s calendar, travel, meetings, and events.
Serve as first point of contact and respond on the VC’s behalf in collaboration with senior management.
Prepare high-quality reports and presentations.
Attend high-level meetings, record and distribute minutes and action points.
Support governance processes and ensure timely internal and external reporting.
Provide general administrative support.
OPERATIONAL SUPPORT:
Monitoring University, national, regional and global events requiring the Vice-Chancellor’s attendance/attention.
Providing research and information to support decision-making.
Assisting and advising the Vice-Chancellor on strategic projects/activities/assignments with those responsible to ensure timeous completion of deliverables in accordance with the required ethical, professional and quality standards.
COMMUNICATION AND LIAISON:
Acting as a point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.
Coordinating communication between the Vice-Chancellor and various stakeholders.
Ensuring effective communication across the university.
CONFIDENTIALITY AND DISCRETION:
Handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Maintaining a high level of confidentiality in all aspects of the role.
Qualifications and Experience
Desired Attributes:
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS
A Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Administration or equivalent
A first degree in Social Sciences, Administration or equivalent
A PhD is an added advantage
EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE
A minimum of 5 years’ experience supporting and advising senior management in a large, complex organisation, preferably within a private university setting.
In-depth knowledge of higher education structures, university governance processes, regulations, and performance management systems.
Strong research and report-writing skills.
Sound understanding of the African higher education landscape, including admission requirements, industry trends, funding opportunities, and the African Union’s educational priorities.
Proficient in the use of information technology and digital tools.
Demonstrates a strong Pan-African attitude, with working knowledge of French and/or Portuguese, and a good understanding of the United Methodist Church is an added advantage.
SKILLS AND PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities
Discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information
Commitment to upholding the values of Academic excellence, God fearing, Integrity, Diversity, Professionalism and Ubuntu
Demonstrable team-leadership
High levels of professional presentation and conduct
How to Apply
How to Apply:
The application pack should be sent as a single PDF file clearly marked “VC Personal Assistant” in the subject line to the email careers@africau.edu no later than 1400 hours on Friday, 08 August 2025. Applicants should clearly indicate the position being applied for in the application letter, which should be addressed to the Assistant Registrar, Personnel and Administration. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Africa University is committed to Diversity, Ubuntu, Professionalism, Integrity and Excellence. Qualified candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.