Director

Transformation is a critical issue facing the social justice sector in South Africa. At CALS, we view the need for change, particularly in relation to racial and gender transformation, as both extremely important and urgent. A transformation agenda needs to permeate all areas of CALS’ work, including how we operate internally. CALS’ ethos is therefore one that prioritises an inclusiveness that is particularly responsive to persons who experience marginalisation and disadvantage as a result of historic and contemporary inequality. We see this as the intentional deconstruction of barriers that continue to disadvantage black women in particular. In order to implement our belief in the urgent need for transformation beyond rhetoric, it is necessary to ensure that CALS’ staff is representative of the demographics of South Africa. Most importantly, CALS must also have black leadership. In a post-apartheid era of equality, the non-transformed nature of leadership is inconsistent with the very values to which we aspire in our work.

We are therefore in the midst of an exciting leadership transition. Applications are currently open for the position of Director at CALS, who reports to the Head of the School of Law.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

A legal academic at the level of Professor (applicants should hold a PhD and must provide evidence of substantial scholarly work published in refereed journals) OR Associate Professor (applicants should hold a Masters degree, preferably a PhD and demonstrate significant refereed output) OR Adjunct Professor (a practitioner of stature with a distinguished record in the field of human rights). The successful applicant will have a good understanding of the socio-economic environment in the country and the region, demonstrate a commitment to advancing social justice and have a background in some of CALS’ areas of work. S/he must possess leadership abilities and managerial competence, and show a record of legal advocacy, evidenced by involvement in human rights litigation or campaigns in the field of human rights. Experience in raising funds and managing donor relationships, the ability to represent CALS in multiple forums and experience in developing networks, collaborations and partnerships are also required for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Developing and implementing a strategic vision for CALS; leading the creation of an institutional culture conducive to achieving CALS’ vision, our collective approach to wellbeing and which puts transformation into practice; guiding the development of CALS’ programmatic work; managing the CALS team of staff; raising funds for CALS and managing donor relationships; financial oversight of the organisation; working closely with the university structures and advisory board to ensure sound organisational practices, accountability and compliance with university policy; engaging in academic research, advocacy and teaching  in the human rights field; representing CALS in a variety of forums, including in engagements with the media, government, the private sector, civil society, CALS’ clients, and international and regional institutions.

TO APPLY:

To apply submit a cover letter containing the contact number of 3 referees, a detailed CV, certified copies of degrees/diplomas, an official academic transcript and a writing sample of no more than 10 pages, on the Wits i-Recruitment platform located at https://irec.wits.ac.za. Should you experience difficulties with the online application, please contact Ms Zelda Stroud, Senior Human Resources Officer, at zelda.stroud@wits.ac.za.

CALS is in the process of a leadership transition in order to advance transformation. Therefore, only applications from individuals from previously disadvantaged population groups will be considered. The University reserves the right not to appoint if suitable candidates are not found. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

CLOSING DATE: 15 JUNE 2018