DEPUTY DIRECTOR: SECRETARIAT SERVICES

This position within the Department of the Premier in the Western Cape Government offers a senior leadership opportunity for an experienced manager to oversee the secretariat and executive support functions of the province. As Deputy Director for Secretariat Services, the successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that executive structures operate smoothly and that decision-making, governance, and compliance processes are properly supported. The role sits at a managerial level and requires someone who can provide strategic direction, manage a sub-directorate, and account for its overall performance.

To be considered, applicants must hold an appropriate three-year tertiary qualification at NQF level 6 or higher, recognised by SAQA, along with at least three years of relevant management experience. The role demands a broad and current understanding of public management theory, policy analysis and development, operational management, monitoring and review processes, and the legislative and regulatory frameworks affecting the line function. Knowledge of decision support systems, information management systems, project management, procurement and tendering, and modern governance and administration systems is essential. The ideal candidate will also be well-versed in public service procedures, constitutional and legal arrangements governing the South African public sector, public finance and human resource management, the Public Finance Management Act, and Treasury regulations. Familiarity with labour relations legislation, performance management, and the political, economic, and social dynamics impacting the Western Cape provincial government is also required.

The core duties involve managing secretariat and logistical support to executive structures, providing executive decision-making support, and ensuring executive governance and compliance. The Deputy Director will plan and manage the work of the sub-directorate, which includes organising, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, as well as records and information management. People management responsibilities cover recruitment and selection, training, performance management, mentoring and coaching, and discipline. Financial management duties include budget oversight, asset management, procurement, and monitoring and evaluation. This is a demanding role that requires both strategic oversight and hands-on operational management.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process includes interviews, the submission of vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe, and two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to test technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment. The process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department. By applying, candidates consent to reference checks with previous employers, including enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. Applications must be submitted before the closing date, as late submissions will not be accepted, and technical support is available during business hours for online application difficulties. This is a key position for someone with strong leadership, policy, and governance expertise who is ready to support the highest levels of provincial executive decision-making.