DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS (X2 POSTS)

This vacancy is for a Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, with two posts available, based in Pretoria within the National Prosecuting Authority. The role sits within the SCCU, a specialised unit tasked with handling complex and high-stakes prosecutions. The incumbent will act as a senior legal leader, guiding investigations, conducting prosecutions, and providing authoritative legal advice to the Head of the SCCU. The position is graded at a senior management level and forms part of the NPA’s broader efforts to ensure that prosecution decisions are constitutionally sound, legally compliant, and strategically aligned with national priorities.

Candidates must hold an LLB degree, or an appropriate legal qualification for serving prosecutors seeking promotion. A minimum of ten years’ post-qualification experience in civil and/or criminal litigation is required, along with demonstrable competency in acting independently, professionally, accountably, and with credibility. Admission as an attorney or advocate is an added advantage, as are strong advocacy and legal drafting skills. Applicants must have knowledge of civil and/or criminal procedure, the right of appearance as contemplated in section 25(2) of the NPA Act, and excellent interpersonal, analytical, presentation, and communication skills. Computer literacy, the ability to work extended hours, and a valid driver’s licence are also required.

The duties are extensive and strategic. The Deputy Director will guide investigations and conduct prosecutions of identified cases, exercise oversight over prosecution decisions, and ensure all decisions comply with the Constitution, legal prescripts, and applicable policies. The role involves producing high-level, well-researched opinions and reports for the Head of the SCCU, managing governance and operations, and monitoring and reviewing strategy. The incumbent will liaise with regional offices, arrange meetings, and render professional advice as required. They will also ensure plans are in place for stakeholder and partner engagement, and that the national strategy and annual plan of the SCCU are developed and implemented. This includes monitoring regional office delivery, analysing operational performance, identifying deficiencies, and developing improvement plans or interventions. The post also carries responsibility for overseeing employee performance management systems, initiating training needs assessments at national and regional levels, and meeting regularly with relevant stakeholders to execute the SCCU mandate.

As a senior management position, the successful candidate will be subject to a security clearance of at least confidential, with appointment provisional pending clearance. Fingerprints will be taken at interview, and shortlisted applicants’ social media accounts may be accessed as part of verification. All shortlisted SMS candidates must undertake pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment, and may be required to undergo psychometric assessments. A pre-entry certificate from the National School of Government is required for Public Service Act SMS positions, unless the appointment falls under the NPA Act. A lifestyle audit may also apply. These conditions reflect the high level of trust and accountability attached to the role. Applicants should note that only shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit certified documents, and foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA. The NPA reserves the right not to fill the post, and candidates who do not receive feedback within six months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.