ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: MEDIA LIAISON REF NO: 131126/14 Branch: Corporate Support Services CD: Communication Services Dir: Media Liaison

This position is for an Assistant Director: Media Liaison within the Department of Water and Sanitation, situated in the Communication Services unit under the Corporate Support Services branch. Based at the Head Office in Pretoria, this role is a management-level post (Level 09) that requires a blend of strategic communication expertise and operational leadership. The incumbent will operate at the intersection of government communication and media relations, ensuring that the department’s work is accurately and effectively profiled to the public and key stakeholders. The role is central to shaping the department’s public image and requires a deep understanding of the water sector, as well as a firm grasp of government policies and objectives.

To be considered, candidates must possess a relevant NQF level 6 qualification in Communication, Journalism, or Public Relations, as recognised by SAQA. This academic foundation must be complemented by at least five years of practical experience in a government setting, editorial content production, or a digital media/newsroom environment. The role demands a robust disciplinary knowledge of communication and media studies, including a thorough understanding of media principles, techniques, and tools. A valid, unexpired driver’s licence is a requirement. Beyond the core communication skills, the position requires knowledge of human capital management, financial management, and the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). An understanding of programme and project management, relationship management, and the techniques for planning and executing operations is also essential. The ideal candidate will be a problem-solver with strong analytical skills, capable of managing diverse teams and maintaining a client-oriented focus. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, accountability, ethical conduct, and the ability to perform under pressure and meet tight deadlines are all critical for success in this fast-paced environment.

The core duties of the Assistant Director involve implementing media plans that align with the department’s overarching media, communication, and policy frameworks. A key responsibility is the development of media products that effectively profile the department’s initiatives and achievements. This includes the logistical and strategic planning of press conferences, media briefings, tours, and other events designed to secure positive coverage. The role also entails coordinating media house visits to foster and maintain strong, mutually beneficial relationships with journalists and media organisations. In the digital sphere, the incumbent will be responsible for managing the department’s social media platforms and executing targeted campaigns. As a supervisory role, it also includes the management of human resources within the media liaison unit, ensuring that team performance and development are aligned with departmental goals.

This is an equal opportunity position, and the Department of Water and Sanitation is committed to achieving the objectives of the Employment Equity Act. As such, preference will be given to candidates from designated groups, with women and persons with disabilities particularly encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates should be prepared for a rigorous selection process, which will include suitability checks such as qualification verification, reference checks, and criminal and credit checks. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate if shortlisted. The department reserves the right not to fill this position, and correspondence will only be conducted with shortlisted candidates. If no feedback is received within three months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.