DEPUTY DIRECTOR-GENERAL: OFFICE OF THE CFO

This senior management opportunity exists within the Mpumalanga Department of Education, based at the Head Office in Mbombela, and reports directly within the Chief Directorate: Office of the Chief Financial Officer. The successful candidate will serve as the Deputy Director-General for this portfolio, providing strategic leadership and oversight of the department’s entire financial management function. The role sits within the Administration programme and is a permanent appointment at SMS level, carrying significant responsibility for aligning the department’s financial resources with its strategic plan and legislative obligations. As a key advisor to the Accounting Officer, the incumbent will ensure that public funds are deployed effectively, economically, and transparently, while building a high-performing financial team to support the department’s educational objectives.

Candidates must hold a SAQA-recognised Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma, or an equivalent NQF Level 8 qualification in a relevant field, accompanied by at least eight to ten years of experience at senior managerial level. Registration as a Chartered Accountant (SA) would be a distinct advantage, as would possession of a valid driver’s licence. The role demands an in-depth technical understanding of Generally Recognised Accounting Practice, the transition to accrual accounting, performance budgeting, and the broader public service legislative framework for financial and supply chain management. A thorough working knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, the Division of Revenue Act, the Public Service Act and Regulations, the Employment of Educators Act, and HR policy frameworks is essential. The incumbent must also demonstrate strong strategic planning skills, the ability to render sound technical advice to line managers, and advanced planning, organising, and project management capabilities. Excellent verbal communication and report-writing skills are required, along with proven leadership in securing financial resources and building a capable delivery team.

The core duties of this role are extensive and strategic in nature. The Deputy Director-General will develop and maintain mechanisms to respond to changing financial information needs, interpret financial data, and provide technical advice to the Accounting Officer and line managers. They will ensure that departmental financial resources and assets are utilised in line with the Strategic Plan, that compliance is maintained with the PFMA, Treasury Regulations, and the Division of Revenue Act, and that reporting requirements are met. Responsibilities also include establishing sound internal financial controls, delegated financial authority, asset security, monitoring and evaluation, and early warning systems. The post holder will oversee the budgetary process, apply cost-benefit analysis to secure value for money, and develop supply chain management systems consistent with good governance. They will also manage the preparation and submission of annual financial statements, liaise with the Auditor-General, and oversee a range of HR management, labour relations, and development services.

Shortlisted candidates will be expected to undertake a technical exercise as part of the selection process Sequence. In line with public service requirements, appointment at this SMS level requires successful completion of the Senior Management Leadership Programme and possession of the pre-entry certificate issued by the National School of Government, obtained at the candidate’s own cost. Candidates will also undergo two pre-entry assessments, one practical and one integrity-based. The Mpumalanga Department of Education is an equal opportunity employer and applies affirmative action. Preference will be given to candidates whose appointment promotes representivity in terms of disability, gender, and race, in accordance with the department’s Employment Equity Plan. All shortlisted applicants will be subject to vetting and verification of qualifications prior to appointment.