Executive Director: Properties and Services

About the role

The University of Cape Town invites applications for the Executive Director: Properties and Services, a senior leadership role based in Cape Town. The post oversees the stewardship and development of the University's physical environment and service infrastructure, covering its multi-site property and infrastructure portfolio. It leads the strategic management, development and optimisation of the assets so they support teaching, learning, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and social responsiveness, while advancing environmental sustainability and institutional resilience.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all functions relating to property and infrastructure management, including capital development projects, property portfolio management, facilities and custodial services, maintenance, transport, safety, security, space planning and campus development.
• Ensure physical assets, facilities, services and infrastructure are planned, developed, maintained and leveraged to support the University's objectives.
• Identify opportunities to optimise asset value, support strategic partnerships, advance precinct development and contribute to sustainable revenue diversification.

Required profile

• Education in Engineering, the Built Environment, Property Studies, Commerce or a related discipline, with a Master's degree.
• Professional registration with a relevant statutory or professional body where applicable (e.g. ECSA, SACAP, SACQSP, SAPOA, SAFMA or equivalent).
• At least 10 years' experience in a senior or executive leadership role within a large, complex multi-site real estate, property, infrastructure or built-environment organisation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and transform a large, complex, multidisciplinary department, including developing senior managers and professional teams.
• Knowledge of the South African higher education environment is advantageous.

Required skills

• Safety, security and facilities management, including the use of technologies and integrated management systems to improve risk management and service delivery.
• Experience managing a portfolio of property assets at strategic and operational levels.
• Experience developing and maintaining integrated spatial frameworks for large urban precincts; knowledge of campus planning and design is advantageous.
• Strategic thinking, stakeholder relationship building and proven leadership capabilities.

To apply, candidates must complete a candidate profile on the UCT Jobs site, attach a motivation letter addressing the criteria, a full CV with three referees and the HR204 application form for Senior Executive Posts. Shortlisted candidates give an open presentation and undergo assessments; the closing date is 13 November 2026.