The University of the Free State (UFS) today announced the appointment of Prof Ylva Rodny-Gumede as Executive Director: Advancement, effective 1 November 2025. In this role, Prof Rodny-Gumede will provide strategic leadership for the university’s Institutional Advancement, Communication and Marketing, and Student Recruitment portfolios.
Prof Rodny-Gumede joins the UFS from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), where she served as Senior Director: Division of Global Engagement.
She holds a PhD from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London (UK), a master’s degree in Politics from the University of the Witwatersrand, and a master’s degree in Journalism from Cardiff University (UK). In addition, she holds a certificate in Executive Leadership from the Johannesburg Business School.
With a career spanning more than 20 years in higher education, Prof Rodny-Gumede has held fellowships at universities in South Africa and abroad. She is actively involved in teaching, executive training, and development initiatives at institutional, national, and international levels.
Prof Rodny-Gumede is an accomplished scholar and has held several leadership and academic positions in the fields of communication, journalism, and public relations. Her professional experience further includes consultancy for high-profile organisations such as Universities South Africa (USAf) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). She contributes regularly to both print and broadcast media, including Newzroom Afrika, SABC, Mail & Guardian, and University World News.
“Prof Rodny-Gumede’s strategic mindset, innovative approach, and deep understanding of the higher education landscape will be instrumental in enhancing the university’s national and international visibility, while driving impactful advancement and student recruitment initiatives. I look forward to her leadership in elevating the university’s global profile and strengthening our advancement efforts. I extend my congratulations to her on this significant appointment,” says Prof Hester C. Klopper, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UFS.
