OFFICER: RED TAPE REDUCTION

This position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to the Department of Small Business Development’s mandate of fostering an enabling environment for micro, small and medium enterprises, co-operatives and informal businesses. Based in Pretoria, the Officer: Red Tape Reduction operates within a unit dedicated to identifying and dismantling unnecessary regulatory and administrative burdens that hinder business growth and ease of doing business. The role sits at the intersection of policy analysis, stakeholder engagement and programme implementation, requiring a professional who can translate research findings into practical recommendations and support the department’s efforts to streamline processes across all spheres of government.

Candidates must hold a National Diploma at NQF level 6 in Economics, Public Administration, Developmental Studies, Social Science, Business Management or a related field recognised by SAQA. At least one year of administrative experience in a stakeholder consultation environment is required, with a specific focus on communication techniques. A thorough understanding of legislation, policies and regulatory frameworks affecting MSMEs, co-operatives and informal businesses is essential, as is familiarity with red tape reduction initiatives and the broader ease of doing business agenda. The role demands knowledge of public policy development, regulatory review processes, research methodologies, data collection and impact assessment. Additionally, candidates should understand public administration, intergovernmental coordination, stakeholder participation processes, and project implementation with monitoring and reporting. Practical skills in research, data analysis, report writing, facilitation, project coordination and the ability to document regulatory bottlenecks are critical. Competencies such as attention to detail, problem solving, stakeholder engagement, networking, service delivery innovation and computer literacy in MS Office are expected. A valid driver’s licence and experience in policy development or project management will be considered advantageous.

The core duties involve conducting comprehensive research, including desktop studies, literature reviews and primary data collection, to inform policy and programme development. The officer will continuously analyse challenges, needs and trends affecting small enterprises. A significant part of the role is liaising with stakeholders across national, provincial and local government to share best practices and collect updates on red tape reduction initiatives. The officer will also contribute to developing mechanisms, tools, standard operating procedures, templates and databases that support entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Performance monitoring inspections to ensure compliance, drafting correspondence such as reports, memos and presentations, and providing advice on procedural and technical matters are routine responsibilities. Administrative and logistical support, including minute-taking during stakeholder meetings, organising events and workshops, and procuring goods and services such as catering and venues, forms part of the daily work.

The Department of Small Business Development is committed to pursuing diversity and redress, and appointments will be made in line with its Employment Equity Plan. This is a permanent post with a competitive salary, and the closing date is provided in the vacancy listing. Interested applicants should note that applications are submitted via email with the specified reference number, and only MS Word or PDF documents are accepted. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who thrives on cross-governmental coordination and is passionate about removing barriers for small business owners.