ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: SERVICE CONDITIONS

This position offers an opportunity to manage the service conditions portfolio within the human resources environment of the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government, based at the North Service Centre in Richards Bay. As an Assistant Director, the successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing a component that deals with the full range of employee service benefits and conditions, ensuring that all administrative processes align with the legislative and regulatory frameworks governing the public service. The role is a supervisory one, requiring a blend of technical HR knowledge, policy interpretation, and people management skills. The incumbent will operate within a structured government environment, liaising with various stakeholders and ensuring compliance with prescripts issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration, as well as departmental and provincial policies.

To be considered for this role, applicants must possess an NQF level 6 qualification in Human Resources Management, Public Administration, or a related field, along with a valid driver’s licence. A minimum of three years of supervisory experience in Human Resources Administration is required. The role demands a thorough working knowledge of the RSA Constitution, the Public Service Act, the Public Administration Management Act, the Public Service Regulations, and the Directive on Human Resources Management and Development for Public Service Professionalisation. Familiarity with the PFMA, EPMDS, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the Labour Relations Act, and relevant bargaining council resolutions is also essential. In addition, the candidate should be well-versed in PERSAL functions and procedures, GEPF prescripts, and the full spectrum of departmental, provincial, and national HR policies. Strong skills in communication, interpersonal relations, computer literacy, supervision, report writing, problem solving, conflict management, time management, presentation, planning, organising, project management, policy analysis, and analytical thinking are expected. The ideal candidate will be self-disciplined, self-driven, and capable of working under pressure with minimal supervision.

The core duties of the post involve managing the administration of pension benefits services and the entire process of employee exits, ensuring that all separations from the service are handled accurately and timeously. The Assistant Director will also manage the administration of injuries on duty, overseeing claims and compliance with relevant legislation. Another key responsibility is the management of service conditions’ allowances, ensuring that all allowances are processed correctly and in line with policy. The role further requires providing advice and inputs into the development of policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures, contributing to the continuous improvement of HR service delivery. Finally, the incumbent will be responsible for managing the resources of the component, including human, financial, and material resources, to ensure efficient and effective operations.

This is a demanding but rewarding role for an experienced HR professional seeking to contribute to the public service. Applicants should note that all shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment to evaluate ethical conduct. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. The post is advertised as part of a provincial circular, and interested candidates should ensure they meet all requirements and follow the prescribed application procedures, as late or incomplete applications will not be considered.