DIRECTOR: BIODIVERSITY RISK MANAGEMENT

This position is a senior leadership role within the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, based in Pretoria. The Director: Biodiversity Risk Management is responsible for providing strategic leadership, technical guidance, and oversight across a broad portfolio that addresses biodiversity threats, climate change responses, and the regulation of genetically modified organisms. The role sits at the heart of South Africa’s efforts to protect natural ecosystems while managing the risks posed by alien and invasive species and emerging global change challenges. The incumbent will shape national policy, guide legislative implementation, and represent the country in multilateral environmental forums, making this a pivotal post for anyone with deep expertise in environmental science and natural resource governance.

Candidates must hold an undergraduate qualification at NQF7 level in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or a related field recognised by SAQA. A minimum of five years’ experience at middle or senior managerial level within the relevant field is required, along with successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-entry Programme endorsed by the National School of Government, which must be submitted prior to appointment. The ideal applicant will have strong knowledge of natural resource management planning and implementation, natural resource-based rural development, and programme-based operational management. Experience in value-added industry, policy development and application, financial management, and project management is essential. A thorough understanding of the Public Finance Management Act, excellent written and spoken communication, strong analytical skills, proven leadership, and the ability to guide multidisciplinary teams are also critical.

The duties are wide-ranging and strategic. The Director will provide strategic direction and technical oversight for biodiversity and climate change policy responses, as well as for the implementation of bio-safety legislation. This includes monitoring and governing alien and invasive species, developing a national response strategy for managing these species and GMOs, and creating policies, legislation, regulations, and risk assessment frameworks. The post also carries issuing authority functions for alien invasive species. The Director will develop negotiating positions and lead engagements on thematic areas within the Biodiversity Risk Management Directorate, and prepare reports for multilateral platforms on decisions adopted by the Conference of the Parties. Cross-functional mainstreaming of resilience against global change challenges, including climate change, alien and invasive species, and GMOs, is a key responsibility. The role also involves facilitating co-developed projects and funding proposals, and serving or co-chairing project steering committees for strategic government initiatives.

This is an equal opportunity, affirmative action position. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from underrepresented designated groups in line with the Department’s equity plan, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will undergo screening and security vetting, including criminal record, citizenship, creditworthiness, employment reference, and qualification verification. SMS candidates must also complete two pre-entry assessments, a technical exercise, and an interview, with up to three candidates undergoing psychometric assessments. The successful appointee will be subject to security clearance and must sign a performance agreement and employment contract. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA, and applicants should ensure all required information is provided in their application.