CHIEF DIRECTOR: FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

The Chief Director: Financial Management is a senior executive leadership post within the Department of Social Development in the Western Cape Government, responsible for the strategic direction, oversight, and operational delivery of the department’s entire financial management portfolio. Reporting directly to the Head of Department, the incumbent provides executive support and acts as the principal adviser on all financial, supply chain, governance, and related corporate support matters. The role sits at a level 14 all-inclusive package and is based within the provincial government structure, requiring a leader who can navigate complex public sector financial frameworks while ensuring that the department’s resources are managed with integrity, efficiency, and full compliance with applicable legislation.

Candidates must hold an appropriate qualification at NQF Level 7 or higher, recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority, together with at least five years of relevant experience at a senior managerial level. This experience should demonstrate a proven track record in leading financial management functions, ideally within the public sector, and a deep working knowledge of the legislative and regulatory environment governing South African state finances. The role demands extensive knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act, National and Provincial Treasury Regulations, financial policies, prescripts, directives, and collective agreements, as well as a sound understanding of constitutional, legal, and institutional arrangements for the public sector. Familiarity with labour relations legislation, performance management, modern governance systems, and the broader political, economic, and social dynamics affecting the Western Cape is also essential.

The successful candidate will need to combine strategic capability and leadership with hands-on expertise in programme and project management, change management, people management, and financial management. Strong skills in numeracy, computer literacy, project management, accounting, audit, financial and statistical analysis, and legal administration are required, along with excellent communication, networking, and interpersonal abilities. The role calls for outstanding planning, organising, and people management skills, the capacity to multi-task and deal with ambiguity under pressure, and the ability to persuade and influence a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. A thorough understanding of procurement best practices, strategic sourcing, preferential procurement, and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment is also necessary.

The duties are broad and encompass both line management and strategic management. The Chief Director will ensure the delivery of departmental management and financial accounting services, including budgeting, planning, budget monitoring, expenditure management, bookkeeping, financial statements, salary administration, debt management, and banking and cash management. The role also oversees supply chain management, including governance, contract management, bid and quotation processes, logistics and LOGIS, as well as departmental assets and fleet management. In addition, the post requires the provision of operational support services covering information and communication technology, human capital, corporate assurance, legal services, and communication support. The Chief Director is responsible for managing the professional development of occupation-specific dispensation professions, coordinating security management, occupational health and safety, and accommodation matters, and ensuring sound internal control practices, proper governance, assurance services, and effective fraud and losses management.

At the strategic level, the Chief Director must continually define and review the purpose, objectives, priorities, and activities of the Chief Directorate, drive the strategic planning process, and develop and manage strategic and business plans. Performance is evaluated against predetermined key measurable objectives and standards, with regular reporting to the Head of Department on activities and matters of substantial importance. The role also involves monitoring compliance with relevant legislation and prescripts, ensuring adequate record keeping, and fostering a culture of innovation within the Chief Directorate. This is a demanding, high-impact position for a seasoned financial leader seeking to shape public service delivery in the Western Cape.