DEPUTY DIRECTOR: SOCIAL CRIME PREVENTION

This position is for a Deputy Director of Social Crime Prevention within the Provincial Secretariat, based in the Northern Corridor. The role operates at an entry-level management tier and is central to translating the department’s strategic crime prevention objectives into coordinated, on-the-ground programmes. The incumbent will provide leadership and direction across multiple provincial priority areas, focusing on community safety and the reduction of social ills through structured interventions. The post is suited to a candidate with a strong background in social sciences, community development, or policing, and who has the maturity and administrative capability to manage both people and resources in a public service environment.

Applicants must hold a Matric certificate as well as a recognised Bachelor’s Degree at NQF7 level, preferably in Social Sciences, Community Development, or Policing. In addition, at least three years of experience at entry-level management, specifically in Social Crime Prevention programmes or community development involving primary and secondary research, is required. A valid code 08/10 driver’s licence is essential, as travel within the corridor will likely be necessary. Crucially, candidates must have no criminal record and no pending cases against them. The department is looking for someone with thorough knowledge of relevant legislation and Public Service regulations, an understanding of departmental priorities and customer expectations, and insight into crime patterns and their root causes. Strong planning, organising, and team leadership skills are required, along with problem-solving ability, innovation, communication and public speaking skills, and sound report writing and presentation abilities. The role also demands public relations acumen and event management skills.

The core duties revolve around coordinating the implementation of the Social Crime Prevention strategy, as well as the school safety, VAWAC (violence against women and children), and Youth Safety strategies. The Deputy Director will monitor and evaluate programmes related to youth safety, school safety, VAWAC, and substance abuse prevention, ensuring that these initiatives are effective and aligned with departmental goals. The post also carries significant managerial responsibilities, including providing effective and efficient leadership, driving service delivery improvement, and managing both human and financial resources within the unit. This calls for a hands-on approach to supervision, budgeting, and performance monitoring.

Successful candidates should note several important conditions. Shortlisted applicants will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise and an integrity or ethical conduct assessment, both of which will be scored and used as criteria during interviews. A full personnel suitability check will also be conducted, covering criminal records, citizenship, credit history, qualifications, and employment verification. The department encourages applications from designated groups, including youth, people with disabilities, and candidates from Coloured, Indian, and White backgrounds. Applicants with disabilities must attach a confirmation certificate from a registered medical practitioner. While the application process requires the new Z83 form and a comprehensive CV, only shortlisted candidates need to submit certified copies of qualifications. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate. The department reserves the right not to fill the post, and placement will depend on corridor coordination and operational needs. Given the volume of applications expected, only short-listed candidates will be contacted, and if no response is received within three months of the closing date, applicants should consider their applications unsuccessful.