CHIEF DIRECTOR: INTEGRATED PLANNING REF NO: CD/IP/HO/02 (Re-advertisement)

This senior leadership position, based at the Head Office of the Mpumalanga provincial government, is a re-advertisement for the role of Chief Director: Integrated Planning. Operating at the Senior Management Service level, the post is responsible for steering the department’s strategic planning, performance monitoring, and knowledge management functions. The Chief Director provides overarching direction to ensure that departmental business plans are aligned with broader government priorities and that service delivery innovations are embedded across the organisation. The role also carries significant responsibility for policy development, research, and the implementation of diversity and transformation programmes, making it a pivotal position within the department’s management echelon.

Candidates must possess a Grade 12 certificate as well as a Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma at NQF Level 7 in Information Science, Information Systems, Public Management, Development Studies, Economics, or a related field. In addition, applicants need extensive relevant experience, including at least five years at Senior Management Service level. A valid driver’s licence is required, and appointment is subject to signing a performance agreement and disclosing financial interests. Successful completion of the Nyukela Public Service Senior Management Leadership Programme, endorsed by the National School of Government, is mandatory before appointment can be finalised. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong knowledge of the Public Service Act, Labour Relations Act, PFMA, and related legislation, alongside excellent communication, leadership, financial management, change management, and problem-solving skills. Project management experience is an added advantage.

The core duties include coordinating strategic planning services, monitoring and evaluating departmental performance against business plan outcomes, and providing knowledge management services. The Chief Director will also render policy development and research services, manage and coordinate diversity and transformation programmes, and oversee human and financial resources to achieve the Chief Directorate’s objectives. This requires a leader capable of building a strong working team, fostering good interpersonal relations, and maintaining a client-oriented, customer-focused approach.

Shortlisted candidates should be aware of a rigorous selection process. They will be required to submit certified documents before interviews and, for SMS posts, will undergo a technical exercise and interview. A maximum of three candidates will then complete psychometric assessments covering cognitive abilities, behavioural preferences, emotional intelligence, and integrity. All shortlisted candidates must also undertake pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. The top two candidates will be subjected to personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial credit, qualifications, and employment background verification. The successful candidate must enter into an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests each year. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA, and applicants must disclose any business interests or additional remunerative work. The department reserves the right not to appoint, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.