ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: REMAND DETENTION: ADMISSION AND RELEASE [NCB3]

This position, based at the National Head Office of the Department of Correctional Services, operates within the Remand Administration and Case Flow directorate and carries the designation of Assistant Director: Remand Detention with a focus on admission and release. As a middle-management supervisory role graded at the NBC3 level, the incumbent will play a central part in shaping and overseeing the policies and procedures that govern the custody of remand detainees nationally. The role is situated within the broader system of remand administration, which manages detainees awaiting trial or sentencing, and requires close collaboration with internal units as well as external role-players such as the intersectoral cluster on child justice. The work is both strategic and operational, demanding a thorough understanding of the legislative framework applicable to correctional services and remand detention.

Applicants must hold a relevant degree or National Diploma at NQF level 6 in Behavioural Sciences, together with at least five years of relevant experience gained in a supervisory post at or equivalent to the NBC2 level. In addition, successful completion of the Correctional Science Learnership or Basic Training is mandatory. Experience in the departmental management information system (MIS) will be considered an advantage. Candidates should be computer literate and in possession of a valid driver’s licence. The required competencies cover a wide range of managerial and interpersonal skills, including financial management, problem solving and decision making, facilitation, project management, presentation skills, conflict management, training and development, and report writing. A strong understanding of Public Service policy and legislative frameworks is essential, as are service delivery orientation, client focus, integrity, honesty, assertiveness, and the ability to influence and impact outcomes.

The duties attached to this post are extensive. The Assistant Director will be responsible for the development, analysis and evaluation of remand detention policies and procedures, with particular emphasis on the admission and release of remand detainees. This includes contributing to the formulation of policy, developing monitoring tools to track implementation, and ensuring that all remand detainees, including special categories, are handled in line with approved protocols. The role also requires reporting on internal and external audits and driving compliance or corrective actions. A key area of responsibility is monitoring the implementation of the bail protocol and the relevant provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act and the Correctional Services Act as they apply to remand detainees. The incumbent will also monitor the remand detention tool, undertake information analysis and writing, and oversee the application of the Child Justice Act, including the submission of reports to the intersectoral cluster on child justice. Other duties include managing the wearing of uniforms by remand detainees, as well as the broader management of human resources, finance and assets, while ensuring compliance with the department’s supply chain management policy within remand detention.

This appointment is made under the Correctional Services Act, and the successful candidate will be expected to uphold the values and standards of the Department. Given the nature of the work, attention to detail, a firm grasp of legal and policy frameworks, and the ability to manage complex processes and teams are essential. The role offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the administration of justice and the safe, lawful management of remand detainees within a national framework.