ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: DEMAND AND ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT (X4 POSTS)

This position is for an Assistant Director specialising in Demand and Acquisition Management within the Supply Chain Management directorate of a national government department, based in Johannesburg. There are four posts available, and the role is a senior operational and supervisory one within the public service supply chain environment. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that the department’s procurement and acquisition functions run efficiently, lawfully, and in line with all applicable public service regulations. The role sits at the heart of the department’s ability to deliver on its mandate, as it manages the full lifecycle of procurement from planning through to bid adjudication and record-keeping.

To be considered, candidates must have a Matric certificate as well as an undergraduate qualification, specifically a Degree or National Diploma at NQF level 6 or 7 in Supply Chain Management, recognised by SAQA. Applicants need between three and five years of relevant experience within a supply chain management environment, and that experience must have been gained at the level of an Admin Officer or equivalent. A thorough knowledge of public service prescripts applicable to supply chain management is essential, as is an understanding of the department’s mandate and the performance management frameworks used in the public sector. Proven strategies for performance improvement are also required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a range of competencies including strategic capability and leadership, people management and empowerment, programme and project management, financial management, and change management. Problem-solving and analysis, client orientation and customer focus, service delivery innovation, and honesty and integrity are also key. On a personal level, the successful applicant should have strong written and verbal communication skills, be self-motivated, able to work well under pressure, and possess good interpersonal skills. The role also calls for someone who is supportive, able to draw the best energy out of a team, reliable, responsible, and maintains a positive attitude.

The duties of the post are broad and centre on the operational functioning of demand and acquisition management. This includes designing and developing policies, processes, and procedures for demand and acquisition management, compiling the departmental procurement plan, and facilitating its execution. The Assistant Director will set up the Bid Specification, Bid Evaluation, and Bid Adjudication Committees, render secretariat services to these committees, and oversee the appointment of bid committee members. Other responsibilities include compiling bid documents and advertisements, facilitating the publishing of bid documents, and managing the receipt, closing, and opening of bid documents. The role also requires ensuring the safekeeping of and access to supply chain management records, compiling reports on the execution of the procurement plan, and producing other administrative reports. The incumbent will develop and manage the operational plan of the unit, report on progress, implement and maintain control processes, and plan and allocate work within the team.

Employment equity targets apply to these posts, with preference given to suitably qualified African males, Indian males, Coloured males, and Persons with Disabilities. Youth candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. This is a demanding but rewarding role for an experienced supply chain professional looking to take on greater responsibility within the public service.