ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: EMPLOYEE INCENTIVES

This position, based at the National Head Office within the HR System and Support component, forms part of the broader HR Support directorate and focuses specifically on the management and coordination of employee incentives. As an Assistant Director, the incumbent will operate at a supervisory level within the public service environment, ensuring that incentive programmes are implemented consistently, fairly, and in line with applicable legislative and policy frameworks. The role is appointed under the Public Service Act and is advertised through the public service vacancy circular, reflecting its status as a permanent, structured position within the department.

Candidates must hold a recognised Degree or National Diploma in Human Resource Management or a relevant equivalent qualification. In addition, applicants need between three and five years of experience in a similar environment, with at least three of those years at a supervisory level. Computer literacy and a valid driver’s licence are essential. The role demands a thorough understanding of employee incentive policies and processes, including the DPSA incentive policy framework and related circulars, as well as knowledge of the Labour Relations Act, Public Service Act and regulations, collective agreements relating to incentives, and the Employment Equity Act. Familiarity with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, financial policies governing claims, expenditure, advances, payments and invoices, and a range of HR policies covering leave, performance assessment, discipline, grievances, skills development, occupational health and safety, employee wellness, remuneration and allowances is also required. The successful candidate will need to apply project management principles, understand delegations of authority, and be able to access and interpret management information for decision-making.

The core duties involve coordinating the implementation of employee incentive programmes, specifically performance bonuses, pay progression and long-service recognition awards. This includes conducting research and benchmarking on incentive practices within the public service and relevant sectors, providing policy support, and ensuring that all incentive initiatives align with current directives and legislative frameworks. The Assistant Director will also monitor compliance with incentive policies and applicable laws, prepare reports on incentive-related matters, and manage human resources, finance, assets and performance information within the unit. Strong analytical thinking, technical report writing, and policy development, analysis, monitoring, evaluation and implementation skills are therefore critical. The role further requires applied strategic thinking, excellent communication and presentation abilities, and the capacity to develop others through coaching, mentoring, training and supervision. Problem-solving, stakeholder networking and liaison, negotiation and listening skills are equally important for engaging with internal and external parties.

This is a demanding supervisory role suited to an HR professional with a solid background in employee incentives and public service regulations. The position offers the opportunity to shape and refine incentive practices within a national government department, ensuring that employees are recognised and rewarded in a transparent and compliant manner.