MANAGER: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: FRANCES BAARD DISTRICT

This position is a senior management role within the community development structure at the Frances Baard District Office in Kimberley. The incumbent will lead the district’s community development unit or sub-directorate, acting as the driving force behind integrated development interventions that respond to the needs of local communities. Working in partnership with community members, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders, the manager will ensure that resources are used efficiently, effectively and economically to deliver measurable social impact. The role also operates within a broader policy environment, requiring the manager to monitor, interpret and review legislation and policies to confirm they remain relevant and compliant with current requirements, and to develop proposals for amendments or new policies where gaps are identified. This is an OSD-graded appointment, reflecting the technical and managerial weight of the position.

Applicants must hold an appropriate NQF Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree in Community Development, Development Studies or Social Science, coupled with at least ten years of recognisable experience in community development gained after obtaining the qualification. This experience must include no fewer than five years at supervisory or middle management level. A valid motor vehicle driver’s licence is required. The successful candidate will need a broad range of competencies, including strong communication, report writing, facilitation, coordination, liaison, networking and interpersonal skills. Leadership, analytical ability, diplomacy, change and knowledge management, planning and organisation, people management, financial management, problem solving, time management, strategic planning, and policy analysis and development are all essential to perform effectively in this demanding environment.

The core duties involve managing the identification, facilitation and implementation of community development programmes, ensuring that the unit delivers an efficient and effective service through proper utilisation of human, financial and physical resources. The manager must keep abreast of new developments in both community development and management practice to enhance service delivery, plan and oversee research on community development issues, and undertake or facilitate complex community development research. The role also entails guiding the unit’s response to policy and legislative changes, ensuring that service delivery remains aligned with national and provincial frameworks.

Candidates should note that appointments are subject to various pre-employment conditions. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, identity documents and driver’s licences, and social service professionals must provide proof of registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions as well as certificates of service for recognition of prior experience. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. All shortlisted candidates will undergo two pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment, which will be scored as part of the interview process. Successful candidates will be subjected to personnel suitability checks, security clearance and a twelve-month probation period. The department emphasises that misrepresentation in application documents will lead to disqualification or disciplinary action. This is a demanding leadership opportunity for an experienced community development professional seeking to influence service delivery at district level.