DEPUTY DIRECTOR: FINANCIAL PLANNING

The Deputy Director: Financial Planning position is a senior management role within the Provincial Office of the Department of Social Development in Bisho, operating at a level that carries significant responsibility for the branch’s entire budgeting and expenditure cycle. Reporting within the finance unit, the incumbent serves as the central coordinator for all budget-related processes, ensuring that the department’s financial planning aligns with national and provincial frameworks. This is an OSD-graded post that demands a blend of strategic oversight, technical financial expertise, and the ability to guide budget managers across multiple branches. The role sits at the intersection of policy implementation and resource allocation, requiring the post holder to translate government priorities into concrete financial plans and to monitor their execution throughout the financial year.

To be considered, candidates must hold a Senior Certificate alongside a relevant Financial Information Systems qualification, or a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Financial Management or Accounting at NQF Level 7 as recognised by SAQA. A minimum of three to five years’ experience in a finance environment at Assistant Director level is essential, bringing practical familiarity with government budgeting processes. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel including graphs and pivot table interpretation, is required, as is working knowledge of BAS and PERSAL systems. A valid driver’s licence is a prerequisite. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a broad competency set covering communication, client orientation, honesty and integrity, service delivery innovation, knowledge management, financial management, problem-solving, strategic leadership, programme and project management, people management, and change management. A thorough understanding of the Public Service Regulatory Framework and policy formulation processes within government is expected, along with knowledge of business and management principles related to strategic planning, resource allocation, human resource modelling, and leadership techniques. Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation methods, statistical and data analysis, policy analysis and research, and strong report writing and presentation skills are also vital. An understanding of financial statements will be an advantage.

The core duties revolve around the full cycle of budget compilation and monitoring. The Deputy Director will coordinate and consolidate inputs for the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and the Estimates of National Expenditure, and will compile Adjusted Estimates of National Expenditure, including handling reprioritisation, requests for additional funds, and movement of funds across branches. The role involves allocating funds to various responsibilities within branches, coordinating inputs for in-year monitoring reports, compiling expenditure forecasts, and producing monthly management reports. The post holder will advise budget managers on budget-related matters, cost the establishment, and assist with the preparation and review of financial statements. This is a hands-on analytical role that requires constant liaison with branch heads and finance staff to ensure accurate forecasting and compliance with treasury regulations.

This position is advertised with an equity target for African or White males, in line with the department’s employment equity plan. The successful candidate will be based at the Bisho Provincial Office and will report to the relevant director. Given the seniority of the role, the appointee must be prepared to work under pressure during peak budget cycles and to provide decisive leadership in financial planning. Enquiries may be directed to the named contact person, and all applications must be submitted through the provincial e-recruitment system before the closing date. Technical support for the system is available during working hours only, and applicants should ensure they complete their submissions well in advance to avoid last-minute issues. This is a demanding but rewarding position for a seasoned financial professional seeking to contribute to public service delivery through sound fiscal management.