Kearsney College announces an alumni relations co-ordinator vacancy to build strong connections, apply by 26 September 2025

Kearsney College, a prominent independent boarding and day school for boys in Grades 8 to 12 near Durban, is currently looking to appoint an experienced and proactive Alumni Relations Co-Ordinator. This vital role involves managing all aspects of the Kearsney College Old Boys (KCOB) network, including administrative tasks, database management, communications, event planning, and fostering strong relationships with alumni and sponsors. If you have a background in sales, marketing, or communications with at least three years of relevant experience, possess strong organisational skills, and are keen to join a dynamic educational environment, Kearsney College invites your application by the closing date of 26 September 2025.

Detailed list of vacancy key details

• Institution Name: Kearsney College
• Position: Alumni Relations Co-Ordinator
• Location: On the edge of the Valley of a Thousand Hills, just outside Durban.
• Type of School: Leading independent boarding and day school for boys (Grades 8 to 12).
• Application Closing Date: 26 September 2025
• Application Method: Submit CV with three references via email to [email protected], with “Alumni Relations Co-Ordinator” in the subject line.
• Key Responsibilities Include:
  • Providing secretarial, administrative, and financial reporting support for Kearsney College Old Boys (KCOB).
  • Managing and developing the KCOB database.
  • Cultivating relationships with KCOB members and sponsors.
  • Handling communications, social media management, and engagement for KCOB.
  • Promoting networking opportunities among KCOB.
  • Organising events and functions, including brand planning and management.
  • Administering and developing sponsorship opportunities.
  • Managing relations with sponsors.
  • Overseeing the Heritage Society and museum management.
• Required Qualifications, Skills, and Experience:
  • A relevant qualification in sales, marketing, or communications is preferred.
  • A minimum of three years of post-qualification experience in a similar role.
  • Proven experience in event management and social media management.
  • Basic bookkeeping skills and familiarity with Pastel software.
  • A valid driver’s licence.
  • Flexibility regarding working hours, including readiness to work some evenings and weekends.
  • Ability to work effectively and cooperatively within a team.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, coupled with a friendly and outgoing personality.
  • Strong judgement and problem-solving abilities.
  • A proactive approach to tasks and responsibilities.

Simple summary of the vacancy

Kearsney College is looking for a dedicated and energetic Alumni Relations Co-Ordinator to join their team. This role is crucial for maintaining and growing the connection with the college’s Old Boys’ network. The successful candidate will be the driving force behind all KCOB activities, from meticulous administration and financial reporting to engaging communications on social media and planning memorable events. You’ll be responsible for building strong relationships with alumni and sponsors, ensuring the database is up-to-date, and generally fostering a vibrant and connected alumni community. The college is seeking someone with relevant qualifications in sales, marketing, or communications, backed by at least three years of experience in a similar role. Crucially, you’ll need a knack for event planning, social media savvy, some basic bookkeeping knowledge (including Pastel), and the flexibility to work outside standard hours when events demand it. A friendly, proactive approach and excellent people skills are a must to thrive in this busy and rewarding position within a respected educational institution.

Potential candidate Q&A

• Q: What specific experience would make me a preferred candidate for this Alumni Relations Co-Ordinator role?
  A: To stand out, highlight your direct experience in alumni relations or similar community/stakeholder engagement within an educational setting. Demonstrating a strong track record in successful event organisation, comprehensive database management, and impactful social media campaigns specifically targeting an alumni audience would be highly beneficial. Proactive problem-solving and excellent relationship-building skills are also key.
• Q: How important is my knowledge of Kearsney College or independent schools in general?
  A: While not explicitly stated as a requirement, a genuine understanding of the ethos of independent boys’ schools, and ideally Kearsney College itself, would be a significant advantage. It would help you connect authentically with the Old Boys’ community and appreciate the institution’s heritage.
• Q: What does “flexible with regards to hours of work” truly entail for this position?
  A: This means the role will involve working outside of standard 9-5 hours, particularly for evening and weekend events, functions, and networking opportunities. Candidates should be prepared to adapt their schedule to meet the demands of the KCOB calendar and demonstrate a willingness to contribute when needed.
• Q: How can I best showcase my “proactive” nature in my application?
  A: In your CV and cover letter, provide concrete examples of situations where you took initiative, identified opportunities, or solved problems without being prompted. Detail how your proactive efforts led to tangible positive outcomes in previous roles, especially concerning alumni engagement or event success.
• Q: Is knowledge of Pastel an absolute necessity, or can other bookkeeping software experience suffice?
  A: While Pastel is specifically mentioned, demonstrating strong basic bookkeeping skills and proficiency with other widely used accounting software could be acceptable if you highlight your ability to quickly adapt to new systems. However, direct Pastel experience would certainly be an advantage.
• Q: What kind of “relationship development” with KCOB and sponsors is expected?
  A: This involves nurturing ongoing connections through regular communication, personalised interactions, and understanding their interests and potential contributions. For sponsors, it means effective liaison, ensuring their value proposition is met, and exploring new partnership opportunities to benefit KCOB.
• Q: What are the expectations for “social media management and engagement”?
  A: You’ll be expected to manage KCOB’s presence across relevant social media platforms, creating engaging content, fostering interaction, promoting events, and effectively communicating updates to the alumni community. Demonstrating strategic use of social media to build community and drive engagement will be valued.
• Q: Should I include a cover letter with my CV, and what should it emphasise?
  A: Yes, a compelling cover letter is highly recommended. It should specifically address how your skills and experience align with the key responsibilities and requirements listed, showcasing your passion for alumni relations and your understanding of Kearsney College’s values. Emphasise your interpersonal skills and proactive approach.
• Q: What kind of references are preferred for this application?
  A: Kearsney College will likely prefer professional references from previous supervisors or senior colleagues who can speak to your relevant experience, work ethic, interpersonal skills, and ability to handle the responsibilities of an Alumni Relations Co-Ordinator. Ensure they are recent and relevant to the role.
• Q: What is the likelihood of being contacted if I am not shortlisted?
  A: The vacancy states that only short-listed candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear back within 21 days of submitting your application, you should assume it has been unsuccessful.
• Q: What is the “Heritage Society and museum management” responsibility?
  A: This suggests involvement in preserving and showcasing the college’s history and traditions. It might include curating historical artefacts, organising displays, maintaining records, and engaging with those who contribute to the college’s heritage, ensuring its story is well-documented and shared.

Institution details

• Institution: Kearsney College
• Website: https://www.kearsney.com/
• Address: On the edge of the Valley of a Thousand Hills, just outside Durban.

You can find the original vacancy details here: Alumni Relations Co-Ordinator at Kearsney College.

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