ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: MUNICIPAL FINANCE (REVENUE ENHANCEMENT)

This position is for an Assistant Director of Municipal Finance with a specific focus on Revenue Enhancement, based in Johannesburg and operating within a provincial government directorate. The role exists to help strengthen the financial sustainability of municipalities in the province by diagnosing weaknesses in revenue collection systems, advising on corrective measures, and driving projects that improve municipal income. The work sits at the intersection of finance, policy, stakeholder engagement, and project management, requiring someone who understands both the technical and the intergovernmental dimensions of local government finance.

Candidates must possess a Matric certificate as well as an NQF level 6 qualification, such as a National Diploma in Finance or Commerce, or an equivalent qualification recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority. This must be accompanied by at least three to five years of relevant work experience. The ideal applicant will have sound knowledge of local government administration and finances, particularly revenue enhancement, and the technical ability to review, develop, and implement revenue value chain and debtor management standards. This includes familiarity with credit control policies, recoverable and write-off policies, billing and tariff policies, receipting, customer care, indigent policies, standard operating procedures, and innovative systems. A thorough understanding of applicable legislation is essential, especially the Municipal Finance Management Act and the Municipal Systems Act, as well as other regulations such as the Public Finance Management Act, the Constitution, Treasury regulations and circulars, the Division of Revenue Act, the Municipal Structures Act, municipal budget policy, and the National Credit Act. Supervisory experience, staff management skills, knowledge of human resource matters, an understanding of provincial and departmental priorities, and stakeholder needs are also required. A valid driver’s licence is expected.

The main duties are broad and cover planning, technical support, project implementation, intergovernmental relations, and staff management. In terms of planning, the incumbent will conduct diagnostic analyses of municipal revenue enhancement systems using reports such as Section 71 statements, municipal engagement outcomes, and monitoring reports from CoGTA and municipal performance documents. They will contribute to the directorate’s annual performance plan, operational plan, and budget. Regarding revenue enhancement support, the role involves assessing and advising on tariff charges, account formats, printing and distribution of statements, payment methods, pay points, third-party controls, and unallocated payments. The assistant director will also coordinate advice to municipalities on corrective measures and on identifying new sources of revenue. Stakeholder engagement is a significant component: the role includes responding to revenue-related enquiries from bodies like the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and working with municipalities and other stakeholders. Project management duties involve securing buy-in, preparing project initiation documents such as terms of reference and service level agreements, setting up steering committees, monitoring progress, and reporting to a wide range of audiences including provincial executives, treasuries, municipal managers, and legislatures. The role also includes coordinating intergovernmental relations through regional support plans and task team meetings. Finally, the position entails managing a division: planning and delegating work, reviewing outputs, mentoring junior staff, approving leave, facilitating training, and managing performance.

Applicants should note that this is a full-time post with a comprehensive benefits package, and the salary is indicated alongside the advertisement. The appointing department will require the completion of the prescribed application form, and only shortlisted candidates will need to submit certified copies of qualifications. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate. This is a demanding but pivotal role for someone committed to improving municipal finance management and revenue collection across the province.