DIRECTOR: REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

This senior management role, based in the Cape Town Regional Office, is responsible for leading and directing the full spectrum of real estate management services for the department. The Director: Real Estate Management Services sits within the Senior Management Service and is accountable for translating departmental strategy into a practical, performance-driven operational plan for the directorate. This includes setting clear targets, service standards, and identifying risks, while leading a multidisciplinary team across leasing, portfolio management, acquisitions and disposals, and facilities operations. The position requires robust governance, ensuring that all property activities comply with legislation such as GIAMA, PFMA, Treasury Regulations, the OHS Act, and other public sector frameworks. The successful candidate will be expected to foster a high-performance culture, embed strong internal controls, and deliver clean audit outcomes.

Candidates must possess a minimum qualification at NQF level 7, recognised by SAQA, in Real Estate Management, Property Management, Immovable Asset Management, or the Built Environment. A minimum of five years’ experience at middle or senior managerial level is required, specifically leading multidisciplinary teams in real estate, property, or immovable asset management, with exposure to leasing, portfolio and asset acquisition or disposal, and/or facilities operations. An NQF level 8 postgraduate qualification in a relevant field, professional registration in the built environment or property sector, and private sector property or immovable asset management experience are all considered added advantages. A valid driver’s licence, willingness to travel, and the ability to work extended hours are essential, as is the ability to obtain a security clearance.

The core duties are wide-ranging and include overseeing the entire lease lifecycle, from sourcing and contracting to renewals, rent reviews, escalations, and recoveries, while ensuring tenant satisfaction and compliance. The Director will also drive optimal utilisation and maintenance of state-owned properties, including vacant land, direct property condition assessments and maintenance plans, and manage transparent and compliant acquisitions, disposals, and servitudes. Maintaining an accurate and auditable Immovable Asset Register, producing business intelligence dashboards, and managing the directorate’s budget, cash flow, and supply chain management processes are also central responsibilities. Stakeholder engagement with user departments, municipal partners, and service providers is critical, as is the recruitment, development, and performance management of staff.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate strategic planning, programme and project management, financial management, risk and compliance expertise, and advanced report-writing skills. They must be outcomes-driven, innovative, resilient, and able to coach teams while maintaining high integrity. This position offers a challenging opportunity to shape public property management outcomes, including cost optimisation, improved occupancy and asset condition, and strategic alignment with national reform programmes. As a Senior Management Service post, the remuneration package is structured in line with applicable government rules, and applicants must be prepared for a rigorous selection process, including security vetting.