DEPUTY DIRECTOR: VETTING

This position is for a Deputy Director: Vetting within the Security Standards and Management directorate at the National Head Office of the Department of Correctional Services. The role is a senior managerial post, graded under the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD), and forms part of the department’s broader security management framework. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing the execution of fieldwork investigations, ensuring that all personnel security vetting processes align with legislative requirements, departmental policies, and national standards. As a key figure in the security management unit, the Deputy Director will lead the development and implementation of vetting policies, guidelines, norms, and standards, ensuring that security clearance levels are consistently applied across the department in line with the prescripts set by the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and other relevant authorities.

Candidates must possess a recognised National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Policing, Security Management, or a related field. A mandatory security vetting course from a recognised institution is also required. Applicants should have between three and five years of investigations experience at a managerial or Assistant Director level, demonstrating a track record of leading investigative work and managing teams. Computer literacy and a valid driver’s licence are essential. The ideal candidate will bring a range of competencies, including problem-solving and analysis, decision-making, programme and project management, team leadership, analytical thinking, creativity, self-management, financial management, customer focus, and responsiveness. Strong delegation and staff development abilities, planning, organising and execution skills, conflict management, diplomacy, language proficiency, and excellent listening and communication skills are also critical for success in this role.

The core duties of the Deputy Director: Vetting involve managing the execution of fieldwork investigations within the department, establishing and refining systems and processes to ensure compliance with relevant legislation, policies, prescripts, and procedures governing personnel security. The role requires the development, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of departmental policies, guidelines, norms, and standards for vetting and investigations across all security clearance levels. This includes aligning departmental practices with the legislative framework and NIA standards, as well as assisting during implementation and maintenance phases. The incumbent will also manage resources, projects, and files, participate in project and task teams dealing with a variety of subject areas, and take responsibility for the management of performance information. This is a demanding position that requires both strategic oversight and hands-on management of security vetting operations.

Appointment to this post will be made under the Public Service Act. This is a full-time, permanent position based at the National Head Office. The role offers an all-inclusive remuneration package, and interested candidates should note that applications must be submitted online, as no other forms of application will be accepted. This vacancy presents an opportunity for an experienced security management professional to contribute to the integrity and security of the Department of Correctional Services by ensuring robust vetting and investigation practices are upheld.