Dynamic Research Administrator with a proven track record at the University of the Witwatersrand, enhancing research efficiency and streamlining processes. Skilled in budget development and fostering positive relationships, I have significantly contributed to project successes and compliance improvements. Expert in providing basic administrative and secretarial support and adept at leadership, my approach has consistently driven project and administrative excellence.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Administrator
University of the Witwatersrand | Wits Business School, Johannesburg
03.2024 - Current
Digital Publishing (Research)
Assisting in coordinating CAPSI various publications, International Review on Philanthropy and Social Investment Journal, books, working papers and policy briefs
Assigning research papers, research reports and journal articles to different reviewers and creating a journal and research report outline that reviewers can use and adhere to
·Work with contracted service providers to manage the production: copy editing, typesetting, proofreading and publication and ensuring the clarity, accuracy, and consistency of manuscripts
Assists in the organising of the book launch events
Assisted with ensuring timely publication of philanthropic research articles on the Center's digital platform
Monitoring and managing deadlines for all the editorial review processes, including sending regular reminders
Compiling and submitting comparative quotes from service providers to the Director
Assisted the research leads in summarising key findings from articles, books and academic research papers
Research and Office administration
Conducting research to identify potential donors and philanthropic organisations for the Centre.
Organising high-level meetings with the director and potential international donors i.e Mott Foundation
Conducting background research and producing short profiles for high-networth individuals and assessing the financial capability of the donor.
Assisted with grant or donor applications and submissions for increased funding opportunities and research growth for the Centre.
Assisting the director, academic program managers and senior administrator with scheduling, purchasing, procurement, setting high-level meetings, and general administrative weekly tasks
Increased compliance with regulatory requirements through diligent monitoring and timely reporting of research activities
Assists with mass communication using Mailchimp
Compiled annual reports on research activities, highlighting achievements and impact to stakeholders
Assisted with minute uploading on the dashboard and writing of reports between International Ph.D Fellows and local research leads
A rapporteur at different international conferences
Responsible for venue booking for (Info-sessions, podcasts, mass staff meetings, research conferences)
Scoping of research surveys
System administrator, and updating of brochures and information for academic programs on the website
Assisted with travel and accommodation arrangements for staff, country partners and delegates for the annual African philanthropy conference, Mastercard annual convening meetings and PhD writing workshops
Budget/ Financial administration
Collaborated closely with Regional research leads to develop detailed project budgets that met both internal and external funding requirements
Evaluated project proposals for feasibility, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities before submission for funding consideration
Assisted with contract renewals for partners, funded PhD fellows, Masters students and service providers
Responsible for Invoice processing, annexures, contracting and finacial track-sheets for contractors
Administered financial aspects of research projects, including budgeting, invoicing, and expense tracking for accountability
Liaison and Functions
Preparing and designing the program for the Annual Academic Conference
Assisted with coordination and communication between Director, Research leads and PhD Fellows to explain research proposals and discuss Mastercard project status
Liaise with Research leads and Senior staff with organising research events, including symposiums and seminars, to promote knowledge exchange and networking opportunities
Quarterly compilation and uodating the donor reporting sheet
Minute writing for webinars and seminars
Marketing Assistant
North-West University Business School, Potchefstroom
02.2023 - 11.2023
Marketing tasks
Assisted the marketing team with promoting the PGDip and Masters programs offered by the NWU Business School
Generated leads mostly through emails and face-to-face interactions
Assisted with the development of innovative and creative marketing material for campaigns, including online adverts, leaflets, and social media content
Maintained schedules for NWU Business School initiatives such as the annual open day
Provided a high level of reporting for our marketing campaigns to the Program Manager
Assisted with digital marketing of the academic programs
Assisted with streamlining marketing processes, optimizing efficiency through the use of project management tools
Project Officer and Laison (NWU Student Leadership)
North-West University, Potchefstroom
01.2022 - 11.2022
Developed and monitored project schedules, budgets, and objectives for successful completion
Enhanced project efficiency by streamlining communication channels and implementing effective collaboration tools
Ensured that professional standards of work are maintained and student projects are completed to time and budget
Partnered with project team members and students to identify and quickly address problems
Monitored and reported on project status to ensure cost-effectiveness and schedule adherence
Provided documented reports to the senior faculty administrator
Education
Postgraduate Diploma - Management
North-West University Business School
11.2023
Bachelor of Theology Honours - undefined
North-West University
11.2022
B.Th. - Psychology and Pastoral Counselling
North-West University
11.2021
Skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suit
Good administrative skills
Research Skills
Strong written and verbal communication
Marketing, Budget Development & Financial Reporting skills
Stakeholder engagement & Grant management
Resilient and able to work under pressure
Governance
Budget Development
Project Management skill
Report preparation
Timeline
Research Administrator
University of the Witwatersrand | Wits Business School, Johannesburg
03.2024 - Current
Marketing Assistant
North-West University Business School, Potchefstroom
02.2023 - 11.2023
Project Officer and Laison (NWU Student Leadership)
North-West University, Potchefstroom
01.2022 - 11.2022
Bachelor of Theology Honours - undefined
North-West University
B.Th. - Psychology and Pastoral Counselling
North-West University
Postgraduate Diploma - Management
North-West University Business School
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