DEPURT DIRECTOR: ADMINISTRATION SUPPORTAND COORDINATION:

This position offers an opportunity to serve as the Deputy Director for Administration Support and Coordination within the Office of the Executive Authority at the Free State Department of Education, based at the Corporate Office in Bloemfontein. The role is central to ensuring the smooth, efficient and compliant functioning of the executive authority’s office, providing high-level administrative, logistical and coordination support. Working closely with the Chief of Staff, the incumbent will act as a key link between the executive authority and the broader departmental portfolio, as well as with external institutions and legislative structures. The post is graded within the public service framework and carries a comprehensive all-inclusive remuneration package, structured according to applicable public service rules, with medical aid available as an optional benefit.

Candidates must hold a Matric certificate together with a Diploma in Management or Public Administration, or an equivalent qualification at NQF level 6, recognised by SAQA. A minimum of three years’ experience at management level is required, typically at the Assistant Director level. The role demands a broad understanding of the functional areas covered by the executive authority’s portfolio, as well as a working knowledge of South Africa’s political and parliamentary processes. Familiarity with the Public Service Regulations of 2016, the Public Service Act, the Public Finance Management Act, and the Labour Relations Act is essential. Strong skills in presentation, planning, organising, time management, communication, computer literacy, financial management and problem solving are also required.

The duties are wide-ranging and include developing and maintaining systems, registers and databases to monitor the flow of documents into, within and out of the executive authority’s office. The Deputy Director will compile correspondence, submissions and cabinet memoranda, and will study, edit and comment on submissions before they reach the executive authority. Financial and procurement responsibilities include managing the office budget and the procurement and maintenance of equipment. The role also involves managing logistical support, developing and maintaining a filing system, overseeing the registry, and ensuring documents are classified and handled in line with MIS prescripts. The incumbent will brief the Chief of Staff on portfolio matters appearing on Cabinet or executive council agendas, liaise with senior managers across institutions in the portfolio, coordinate the activities of the office, and manage the distribution of memoranda and submissions to legislatures and committees. Keeping accurate records of Cabinet and executive council decisions, and alerting the Chief of Staff and executive authority to required actions and due dates, is a critical responsibility. The post also includes general supervision of office employees, quality control of their work, advising supervisees, serving as the formal disciplinary authority, and ensuring staff are trained and developed to deliver work of the required standard.

This is a senior administrative post with a strong emphasis on governance, compliance and coordination. The Department intends to promote representativity through this vacancy, and preference will be given to applicants from designated groups, particularly people with disabilities, women and youth. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial and qualification verification, and may be asked to consent to access to their social media accounts. Applicants are not required to submit certified copies of qualifications at application stage, but shortlisted candidates must provide them. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA, and non-RSA residents must submit proof of permanent residence when shortlisted. As this is a Senior Management Service post, successful completion of the Nyukela Pre-Entry Certificate for entry into the SMS, as endorsed by the National School of Government, is a requirement for appointment. Candidates who accepted voluntary severance packages may not apply, and the Department reserves the right not to fill the position.