University of Johannesburg Appoints Dr Yondela Ndema as New Chair of Council
Seasoned governance expert brings decades of leadership experience to UJ Council
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is proud to announce the election of Dr Yondela Ndema as the new Chair of Council, following the successful completion of Council’s formal governance and selection processes.
Dr Ndema’s appointment underscores Council’s confidence in her strategic leadership, proven governance expertise, and long-standing commitment to the institution. She brings extensive experience in the higher education sector, having served on the UJ Council since 2017 in various leadership capacities, including Vice Chairperson and Chair of multiple Council Committees.
Her nearly decade-long involvement with UJ has equipped her with a deep understanding of the University’s strategic direction, governance requirements, and institutional culture—ensuring stability, continuity, and strengthened oversight within Council.
A highly regarded executive with more than 20 years of experience across both the public and private sectors, Dr Ndema currently serves as Executive: Compliance and Ethics at Barloworld South Africa, where she leads group-wide ethics, compliance, and governance initiatives within a complex, multi‑national listed organisation. Her earlier career includes senior executive roles at Sasol, where she held Vice President positions responsible for compliance and ethics governance across various global jurisdictions.
Dr Ndema is also a published author and recognised subject matter expert in governance, ethics, and regulatory compliance. She has contributed to numerous boards and board committees across listed companies and public entities. Holding a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Law and being an admitted Advocate of the High Court, she has enriched academic discourse through recent publications on sexual harassment and employer liability in South Africa.
The University looks forward to Dr Ndema’s tenure as Chair of Council. Her extensive experience, commitment to ethical leadership, and strong governance acumen are expected to further enhance Council’s oversight and support UJ’s long-term strategic objectives.