ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: SCM CLIENT SUPPORT (VHEMBE)

This position, based in the Vhembe district, is a supervisory-level role within the Supply Chain Management Client Support directorate of the Limpopo Provincial Treasury. The Assistant Director is responsible for leading a small team that provides direct, practical support to suppliers, particularly small and medium enterprises, helping them navigate the public sector procurement landscape. The role is central to the department’s efforts to broaden economic participation by equipping local suppliers with the knowledge and tools needed to do business with government.

To be considered, candidates must hold a recognised NQF level 7 qualification in Supply Chain Management or Commerce, along with at least three years of functional experience at a supervisory, senior administrative, or SCM practitioner level within the public sector supply chain environment. A valid driver’s licence is required, with an exception made for applicants with disabilities. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of public sector SCM policies, procedures, and legal frameworks, as well as strong financial management, planning, research, and leadership skills. The ability to adapt to change, communicate effectively, and operate computer systems is also essential.

The core duties revolve around building supplier capacity. This includes developing and implementing an SMME capacity-building programme for the district, mobilising small businesses to attend workshops and roadshows, and conducting awareness sessions on SCM policy updates. The successful candidate will provide hands-on assistance to suppliers completing Standard Bidding Documents, registering on the Central Supplier Database, and updating their information. They will also guide suppliers in using the e-tender portal, accessing SCM policy information from government websites, and navigating state procurement systems such as the CSD RFQ functionality and e-submissions. The role involves both walk-in and online support, as well as running workshops on how to upload quotations and tender submissions, and how to track progress on these systems.

In addition to client-facing duties, the Assistant Director manages allocated resources within the sub-directorate. This includes human resource management responsibilities such as signing performance agreements, assessing staff performance bi-annually and annually, and managing leave. The role also covers transport management for government vehicles allocated to the district, as well as stores management. Applicants should note that this is a public service position subject to the standard application process, which requires the newly prescribed Z83 application form and a detailed CV. Copies of qualifications and other documents should not be submitted at the application stage, but the CV must contain all relevant information as it is considered an extension of the application form. The department has indicated that all sections of the Z83 must be completed appropriately, and failure to use the latest version of the form may lead to disqualification. This is a demanding but rewarding role for an experienced SCM professional who is passionate about supplier development and public sector transformation.