ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: LABOUR ACTIVATION PROGRAMME

The Department of Employment and Labour is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced individual to fill the role of Assistant Director for the Labour Activation Programme, based at the Provincial Office in the Northern Cape. This is a mid-level management position within the public service, focused on the strategic implementation and oversight of skills development and training initiatives aimed at beneficiaries of the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). The successful candidate will operate within a structured governance environment, ensuring that all programme activities align with relevant legislation, regulations, and the broader objectives of the department to reduce unemployment and enhance employability.

Applicants must possess a three-year tertiary qualification in Public Administration, Business Administration, or an equivalent recognised field. A certificate in Project Management methodologies will serve as a distinct advantage, as will proven experience in a project management environment. Specifically, the role requires at least four years of functional experience relevant to project management or an equivalent combination of experience and training. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a thorough working knowledge of the Public Financial Management Act (PFMA), Public Service Regulations (PSR), the Labour Activation Framework, the Skills Development Act (SDA), the Unemployment Insurance Act (UIA), and the Unemployment Insurance Contributions Act (UICA). Familiarity with project management principles and methodologies, such as PMBOK, as well as diversity management and basic education and training concepts, is essential. In addition to technical knowledge, the role demands strong negotiation, interpersonal, and presentation skills, coupled with sound problem-solving abilities. The incumbent must be proficient in planning and organising, policy analysis and interpretation, and possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Computer literacy and report writing capabilities are also critical for success in this position.

The core duties of the Assistant Director involve the implementation of training and skills programmes in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, specifically designed to benefit UIF beneficiaries. This includes identifying suitable beneficiaries and institutions funded through the Labour Activation Programme, then tracking and monitoring their progress to ensure measurable outcomes. The role also requires the implementation of an effective information management system, ensuring that all records within the section are accurately maintained and readily accessible. Furthermore, the incumbent will be responsible for conducting advocacy campaigns to raise awareness about Labour Activation Programmes, thereby promoting uptake and ensuring that eligible individuals and communities understand the opportunities available to them. This is a demanding but rewarding position that contributes directly to national skills development and employment creation efforts.

This advertisement forms part of the department’s employment equity targets. In line with these targets, priority will be given to African Females, Coloured Males, Indian Males, Indian Females, and White Males. Interested candidates should note that this is a permanent post, and the remuneration package is aligned with the public service salary scales for an Assistant Director level. The closing date for applications is clearly indicated in the original advertisement, and all applications must be submitted through the specified channels. For any further enquiries, the contact person and telephone number are provided in the full vacancy circular. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated professional with a passion for public service and labour activation to make a tangible difference in the Northern Cape province.