CHIEF DIRECTOR: FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT

This senior leadership position, based at the Head Office in Cape Town, serves as the Chief Director for Facilities and Infrastructure Management within the Western Cape provincial government. The role sits at the heart of the provincial health infrastructure portfolio, with responsibility for the full lifecycle of physical assets, medical equipment, and support services that enable the delivery of healthcare across the province. The incumbent will lead a Chief Directorate that is central to strategic planning, policy development, and the execution of large-scale infrastructure projects, ensuring that health facilities are safe, functional, sustainable, and aligned with the broader objectives of the provincial Department of Health.

Candidates must possess an appropriate tertiary qualification at NQF level 7 within a built environment-related field, recognised by SAQA, combined with at least five years’ experience at a senior managerial level. In addition, the post requires eight to ten years of post-qualification experience in a built environment context, with extensive expertise in health infrastructure management, specifically focusing on planning and maintenance. A valid driver’s licence and a willingness to travel extensively across the province are inherent requirements. The successful candidate will also need to hold or obtain the Pre-entry Certificate for the Senior Management Services, offered through the National School of Government; applicants who do not yet have this certificate may still apply, but must register for and complete the course before any appointment can be finalised, with all associated costs borne by the applicant. Strong leadership in strategic planning and project management, a thorough understanding of relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks, and knowledge of the broader political, economic, and social dynamics affecting the Western Cape government are all essential competencies, as is computer literacy in MS Office.

The duties of this post are wide-ranging and strategic. The Chief Director will manage the development and implementation of infrastructure policies, norms, standards, planning frameworks, business cases, and strategic plans. This includes leading the Chief Directorate’s strategic planning process, developing business plans, and driving change management. A key responsibility is building and stewarding strategic relationships with intergovernmental, institutional, and external partners to enable coordinated infrastructure planning and delivery, proactively resolving dependencies and constraints while ensuring shared accountability for outcomes. The role also involves monitoring project delivery, performance, commissioning, and compliance with approved plans, standards, and Service Delivery Agreements. Beyond capital projects, the position oversees the planning, procurement, commissioning, maintenance, and lifecycle management of medical equipment, moveable assets, and health technology, as well as developing policies and procurement requirements to ensure value for money and service continuity. The Chief Director is also responsible for the corporate services of the Chief Directorate, including financial, supply chain, and people management. Furthermore, the role provides strategic leadership and oversight for a broad range of facilities management support services, including nutrition and food services, security, laundry and linen, cleaning and hygiene, waste management, environmental health, occupational and equipment safety, and estate management. The post also drives initiatives related to sustainability, climate resilience, utilities management, energy efficiency, digital enablement, and facilities modernisation to enhance operational resilience and service continuity.

This is a demanding executive role within the Senior Management Service, and the selection process reflects its seniority. All shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo a technical exercise and interview, and up to three candidates may then be subjected to psychometric assessments covering cognitive capabilities, behavioural preferences, emotional intelligence, and integrity. The post is advertised as part of a provincial government circular, and applicants should note that no payment of any kind is required when applying. This position offers a unique opportunity for an experienced built environment professional to shape the future of healthcare infrastructure and facilities management in the Western Cape.