ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: SUPPORT SERVICES

This position offers an opportunity to serve as the Assistant Director for Support Services within the Western Cape Mobility Department, a provincial government entity. The role is a mid-level management post, graded at Level 09, and is based within the Western Cape Government. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that the department’s operational support environment runs smoothly and in full compliance with the legislative and regulatory frameworks governing the public sector. This is a multifaceted role that requires a blend of operational knowledge, financial acumen, and managerial skill to oversee critical support functions that enable the department to deliver on its mandate.

To be considered, applicants must possess an appropriate three-year National Diploma or a Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent or higher qualification, coupled with a minimum of five years of relevant working experience. The role demands a working knowledge of several key legislative and policy areas, including the Government Immovable Asset Management Act (GIAMA) and related accommodation and asset management prescripts, such as inputs to the User Asset Management Plan (UAMP). Familiarity with Occupational Health and Safety legislation and departmental health and safety frameworks is essential, as is an understanding of transport-related prescripts governing the management and utilisation of government and subsidised vehicles. Candidates should also be well-versed in the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), National and Provincial Treasury Regulations, and relevant financial policies applicable to operational support environments. Knowledge of Labour Relations legislation, regulations, and collective agreements within the public service is another core requirement. In addition to this legislative knowledge, the successful candidate will need strong numeracy, literacy, and computer literacy skills, including proficiency in standard office applications and electronic record-keeping systems. Effective verbal and written communication, along with basic accounting, finance, and audit skills—particularly in budgeting, expenditure monitoring, and controls—are also necessary.

The main duties of the role are broad and include the management of transport services within the department, ensuring that government and subsidised vehicles are utilised efficiently and in line with policy. The Assistant Director will also be responsible for promoting Occupational Health and Safety across departmental premises, fostering a safe working environment for all staff. Facility management is another key area, encompassing the provision of effective and efficient accommodation management. The role further involves managing functions in terms of GIAMA, which includes contributing to the User Asset Management Plan and ensuring compliance with immovable asset management prescripts. Finally, the position carries managerial functions, meaning the post holder will supervise staff, coordinate support service activities, and ensure that all operational support aligns with departmental objectives and regulatory requirements.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process includes interviews, vetting and supporting documentation, and two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. The process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department, and reference checks will include enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving previous employment. This is a demanding but rewarding role for a seasoned professional seeking to make a meaningful contribution to public sector support services.