CHIEF DIRECTOR DISTRICTS AND INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT MANAGEMENT

This senior management position, graded at Level 14 under the public service’s Senior Management Service framework, is situated within the North West Provincial Department of Social Development and based at the Provincial Office in Mahikeng. The Chief Director will head the Chief Directorate for Districts and Institutional Support Management, playing a pivotal role in ensuring that social development services reach communities through well-run district offices, service points, sub-offices, and residential facilities. The incumbent will provide strategic direction and operational oversight across multiple programmes, acting as a bridge between the department and government oversight structures, partner organisations, and ordinary beneficiaries.

Candidates must bring a Grade 12 certificate together with a Bachelor’s degree at NQF Level 7, recognised by SAQA, in Management, Public Administration, Social Science, Public Management, or Project Management. Five to ten years of proven relevant experience is required, of which at least five years must have been at a senior managerial level. A valid driver’s licence is essential, as is the Nyukela Pre-entry Certificate for the Senior Management Service. In-depth knowledge is expected of public service corporate services management, the Public Finance Management Act, the Public Service Act and Regulations, policy formulation, project management, labour relations, service delivery innovation, problem-solving, and client-orientated approaches.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strategic capability and leadership, strong financial management, change management, programme and project management, people management and empowerment, conflict management, and effective communication skills. Honesty, integrity, knowledge management, networking, presentation skills, computer proficiency, and a thorough insight into public sector policy frameworks and the social development environment are also critical to succeeding in this demanding post.

The Chief Director’s core responsibility is to provide strategic leadership and management to district coordination, including district offices, service points, and sub-offices, as well as to institution management covering departmental institutions and facilities. The post also entails managing and facilitating the implementation of corporate services, finance administration and management, social welfare services, specialist social services, and development and research. The role involves liaising with and accounting to government oversight structures, engaging with key departmental partners, developing and maintaining social contact with service beneficiaries, and building sound intergovernmental relations.

All shortlisted candidates will undergo a technical exercise and interviews, and those recommended will subsequently be required to complete a psychometric assessment. The successful appointee must also sign a performance agreement within three months of taking up the post, as is standard for SMS members. The post carries an all-inclusive Level 14 remuneration package, structured in line with public service rules, and offers an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the delivery of social welfare services across the North West Province.