ASSISTANTDIRECTORPOPULATIONPOLICYPROMOTION

This is a mid-level career opportunity for an experienced population development specialist to step into an Assistant Director role within the Chief Directorate: Community Development, in the Directorate: Population Development. Based at the Provincial Office of the North West provincial government, the position focuses on turning population research and policy into practical programmes that support community development. The post is known as Assistant Director: Population Policy Promotion, and it is critical for ensuring that demographic realities inform government planning and service delivery across provincial departments and local structures.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the full life cycle of population policy work, from development through implementation, monitoring and evaluation. This means taking the lead in shaping population strategies and programmes, while also coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure that demographic research is conducted in a consultative and integrated manner. A significant part of the role involves helping other government departments build their own capacity to work with population data and apply the population policy in their planning processes. The Assistant Director will also design and present information, education and communication (IEC) activities and advocacy campaigns that raise public awareness and support the link between population factors and development outcomes.

To qualify, candidates must have a Grade 12 certificate plus a Bachelor’s degree at NQF Level 7 in Population Studies, Social Science, or Statistics. This academic foundation is essential for the sound knowledge of demographic research that the post demands. In addition, applicants need three to five years of experience in the field, with at least two of those years at a supervisory level. This supervisory requirement shows that the role expects someone who can manage teams, projects and stakeholder relationships, not just someone who understands the theory.

The competencies listed for this position are equally important. A thorough working knowledge of relevant Public Service policies and legislation is a must, as is the ability to produce clear, well-structured reports and deliver presentations to a variety of audiences. Practical computer literacy, particularly in Excel and PowerPoint, is required for data analysis and communication. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are also essential, along with the capacity to handle pressure and meet deadlines. The position involves travel, so a valid driver’s licence is non-negotiable, and the willingness to travel to different areas within the province is expected.

This is a role for someone who can combine technical demographic expertise with practical policy implementation and stakeholder engagement. The work is varied, involving research, training, advocacy and planning, and it offers the chance to influence how population issues are addressed at a provincial level. If you have the required degree, supervisory experience and a passion for using data and policy to improve communities, this role may be a strong next step in your public service career.