ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: SECTOR-WIDE MONITORING & EVALUATION (INTERNAL) REF NO ASD SWM&EI

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to evidence-based decision-making within the Department of Small Business Development. The Assistant Director for Sector-Wide Monitoring and Evaluation is an internal appointment based in Pretoria, focused on strengthening the department's ability to track, assess, and report on programme performance across the small business development sector. The role sits within a monitoring and evaluation unit that supports public accountability and continuous improvement, making it essential for a candidate who understands both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and can apply them to real-world programme data.

To be considered, applicants must hold an undergraduate qualification at NQF level 7 in Demography, Applied Statistics, Research, or a BCom in Quantitative Management, or an equivalent related qualification recognised by SAQA. A postgraduate qualification in Monitoring and Evaluation will strengthen an application. At least three years of working experience in M&E, research, demography, or statistical analysis is required. Practical technical knowledge is important, with proven competency in at least two data analysis software packages expected. This includes quantitative tools such as SPSS, JMP, SAS, or STATA, and qualitative tools such as Atlas.ti, MAXQDA, or NVivo. Experience in programme monitoring and reporting is an additional advantage. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, PowerPoint, PowerBI, and Word, with documented competence, is also valued. A valid driver's licence is required, as the role involves travel for data collection purposes. The successful candidate must also demonstrate strong communication skills, research report writing abilities, planning and organising skills, presentation and facilitation capabilities, ICT governance awareness, innovation, and sound mathematical aptitude.

The core duties are diverse and hands-on. The incumbent will provide technical support in testing data against indicators and predetermined objectives, while helping to automate, integrate, and share data for multiple uses such as planning, reporting, and triangulation. This includes supporting evaluation and digital innovation work, pre-testing data collection instruments to ensure they respond to key evaluation questions, and preparing reports. The role also involves contributing preliminary inputs to the review and development of M&E frameworks and guidelines. A significant responsibility is undertaking real-time routine monitoring of data at intervention output and outcome levels, enabling independent performance reporting that promotes public accountability. The position also requires advising on the suitability of quantitative and qualitative data instruments for M&E assignments. Supervisory duties include managing employee performance, handling conduct and discipline, providing on-the-job training, and facilitating staff development. Effective communication with stakeholders, clients, management, and colleagues is essential, delivered through written reports, verbal updates, and formal presentations or workshops.

This is a demanding but rewarding role within a department committed to diversity and redress. Appointment will follow the Department of Small Business Development's Employment Equity Plan. The post is advertised internally, and interested candidates should review the specific application instructions on the vacancy circular, including submission by email, the need to quote the reference number in the subject line, and the requirement to use only MS Word or PDF formats.