Director of Research Services

About the role

The Library and Information Service at Stellenbosch University seeks a senior leader to head its Research Services division. Reporting to senior management, the Director will shape the university’s research support ecosystem and ensure high‑quality client services.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, manage and develop four research service sections: Research Impact, Research Commons, Research Data Services and Open Access Scholarship.
• Oversee quality management and assurance activities across the Library and Information Service.
• Formulate and implement strategic plans for research support in line with university objectives.
• Build and maintain purposeful partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Direct human‑resources and project‑management functions within the responsibility areas.
• Communicate regularly with campus leaders and external partners to promote library research initiatives.

Required profile

• Advanced postgraduate qualification in Library and Information Science or equivalent (NQF level 8 or higher).
• Minimum eight years of middle‑management experience in an academic library or research support environment.
• Deep understanding of academic community needs for information and research services.
• Proven ability to provide dynamic leadership and drive continuous value‑addition.
• Strong strategic‑planning capabilities and senior‑management competence.
• Extensive experience in human‑resources management.

Required skills

• High‑level proficiency with library applications and general computer software.

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence research impact at a leading South African university.
• Collaborative academic environment with state‑of‑the‑art facilities.
• Professional development and leadership growth.