ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: IT GOVERNANCE AND PLANNING SUPPORT REF NO: CMS54/2026 (Re-advertisement, applicants who previously may re-apply)

This is a re-advertised vacancy for the position of Assistant Director: IT Governance and Planning Support within the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, based in Pretoria. The role sits within the department’s ICT governance and planning environment, focusing on ensuring that the department’s information technology operations align with corporate governance frameworks, legislative prescripts and strategic planning processes. As a support and coordination post, it requires a candidate who can bridge technical ICT functions with administrative, audit and risk management requirements, while also engaging with internal and external stakeholders. The post is a re-advertisement, meaning that candidates who applied previously are welcome to re-apply.

Applicants must hold a National Diploma at NQF level 6 in Information Technology or a related qualification recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority. A minimum of three years’ experience in an ICT environment, IT governance, IT risk or a relevant field is required. Additional certification or working knowledge of COBIT or ITIL will be an advantage. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a sound understanding of IT corporate governance frameworks, the Public Service Regulatory framework, DPSA directives and determinations, the Public Finance Management Act and Treasury Regulations, as well as IT practice and procedures, administrative procedures, project management, IT planning, strategic planning management and audit processes. Strong people management, change management, financial management, coordination and stakeholder liaison skills are also expected. The role demands excellent verbal and written communication, policy development and implementation abilities, and sound research, analytical, organising, planning, presentation and interpersonal skills. The ability to gather and analyse information, develop and implement policies, and work both independently and as part of a team is essential.

The main duties include coordinating GITO compliance and reporting, participating in the implementation of the Corporate Governance of ICT policy, and providing secretarial services to ICT governance structures. The incumbent will also participate in the development and review of ICT-related policies, provide stakeholder engagement support, and coordinate various GITO reporting queries while facilitating appropriate responses. A key part of the role involves drafting and consolidating ICT plans, facilitating their implementation, and coordinating the development of the annual ICT risk plan or register. The position also requires coordinating the implementation of audit and risk plans, as well as participating in the implementation of ICT-related DPSA determinations and directives.

The Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and preference may be given to appointable applicants from underrepresented designated groups in line with its equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of their qualifications, identity document and driver’s licence before the interview, and will be subjected to security screening and vetting, including criminal record, citizenship, creditworthiness, reference and qualification verification. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA. By applying, candidates consent to the processing of their personal information in terms of the Protection of Personal Information Act. The department reserves the right not to appoint, and applicants who have not been contacted within three months of the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.