DEPUTY DIRECTOR: DEPARTMENTAL COMMUNICATION

The Deputy Director for Departmental Communication is a senior management role within the Western Cape Government’s Department of Infrastructure, responsible for leading and coordinating all internal and external communication functions for the department. Operating within a complex provincial government environment, this position ensures that the department’s communication activities align with broader government communication strategies and legislative frameworks. The role is situated at a middle management level and involves overseeing a dedicated sub-directorate, making it a pivotal position for maintaining the department’s public image, internal information flow, and compliance with official language and translation requirements.

Candidates must hold a qualification at NQF level 6 or equivalent, combined with at least three years of middle management experience. The role demands a comprehensive working knowledge of legislation, regulatory frameworks, and best practices relevant to government communication, as well as an understanding of modern governance systems, public service procedures, and the constitutional and institutional arrangements governing the South African public sector. Familiarity with the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury regulations, procurement processes, labour relations legislation, and performance management is essential. In addition, the successful applicant needs to understand regional and local political, economic, and social affairs impacting the Western Cape, along with the functioning of sister departments and related functional areas. Strong skills in project management, financial management, people management, communication, relationship management, presentation, report writing, facilitation, and computer literacy are also required.

The core duties involve operationally managing the departmental communication service level agreement with the Department of the Premier’s Corporate Communications Unit, overseeing media liaison services, and planning and managing language and translation services. The Deputy Director is also responsible for people management, financial management, and the overall planning, performance, and accountability of the sub-directorate. This includes managing work outputs, ensuring compliance with policies, and driving continuous improvement in communication delivery.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process includes interviews, two pre-entry assessments (a practical exercise and an integrity assessment), and the submission of vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe. The process is guided by the department’s employment equity targets, and applicants consent to employment references, including checks on disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. This is a demanding leadership role suited to a strategic communicator with strong managerial and governance acumen.