University appoints new Director

The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has appointed Ms Lebogang Molefe as Director: Organisational Development Policy and Planning. She brings extensive leadership experience and expertise in organisational development, human resources and transformation to a portfolio that plays a key role in advancing the University’s strategic priorities and institutional effectiveness.

The newly appointed Director: Organisational Development Policy and Planning, Ms Lebogang Molefe. Ms Molefe’s career spans the public sector and higher education, with senior appointments at the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), National Treasury, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Her work across these institutions has encompassed organisational development, human capital management, transformation and governance. Her extensive leadership experience, complemented by a Master of Business Administration (MBA), positions her to lead organisational change and ensure that the University’s people, policies and structures support its strategic priorities.

Reflecting on her appointment, Ms Molefe said: “I am deeply honoured to take on this role and recognise the responsibility it carries. I look forward to working with colleagues across TUT to strengthen organisational effectiveness and contribute to the University’s continued growth and development.”

Her immediate focus will be on strengthening the Directorate’s operational effectiveness, establishing productive stakeholder relationships and maintaining progress on key institutional initiatives. Priorities include the Organisational Review Project, policy development and implementation, and the introduction of the Performance Management and Development System (PMDS). She will also oversee efforts to ensure that organisational structures and job profiles remain aligned with the University’s evolving needs.

Her longer-term vision is for a Directorate that provides clear strategic direction and practical support in organisational design, workforce planning, performance management and institutional transformation. By connecting these functions, she aims to strengthen the University’s capacity to anticipate change, respond to emerging needs and achieve its strategic objectives.

Collaboration, inclusivity and accountability are central to Ms Molefe’s leadership philosophy. She places emphasis on building trust, providing clear direction and creating opportunities for colleagues to contribute their knowledge and expertise.

“I believe leadership is about creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and inspired to give their best. Success is most meaningful when it creates opportunities for others to succeed,” she said.

Ms Molefe regards organisational development as a shared institutional responsibility, requiring engagement and participation across the University. She encourages colleagues to contribute constructive feedback, embrace innovation and participate actively in shaping an organisational culture that supports both individual contribution and collective achievement.

“Meaningful progress is achieved when we work together, remain open to new ideas and recognise that each of us has a role to play in shaping the future of TUT,” she said.

As she assumes her new responsibilities, Ms Molefe is committed to leading with integrity, strengthening institutional capability and ensuring that the Directorate makes a measurable contribution to TUT’s pursuit of organisational excellence.