DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS Specialised Commercial Crime Unit

This Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions vacancy is based in Gqeberha (KuGompo City) and sits within the National Prosecuting Authority’s Specialised Commercial Crime Unit. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a portfolio allocated by the SCCU Regional Head and the Director of Public Prosecutions, combining senior court prosecution work with leadership and management duties. The role is central to the NPA’s response to commercial crime and corruption, and involves handling complex and high-profile litigation in the High Court, the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court. In addition to being an experienced courtroom practitioner, the post-holder will be expected to act as a strategic manager, guiding advocates, prosecutors and stakeholders, and ensuring that the division delivers on its objectives.

Candidates need an LLB degree, while serving prosecutors seeking promotion may offer any appropriate legal qualification. At least ten years’ post-qualification experience in civil and/or criminal litigation is required, together with demonstrated ability to act independently, professionally, accountably and with credibility. Admission as an attorney or advocate is an added advantage, as are strong advocacy and legal drafting skills. Applicants must have sound knowledge of civil and/or criminal procedure and the right of appearance under the NPA Act. The role also demands good interpersonal, analytical, presentation and communication skills, computer literacy, a valid driver’s licence, and a willingness to work extended hours when case demands require it.

The core duties include investigating and prosecuting cases, providing high-level and well-researched opinions and reports to the SCCU Regional Head, and offering legal oversight and guidance in investigation projects and legal casework. The Deputy Director will study case dockets and other documents relating to corruption and criminal matters, make and review decisions on whether to institute criminal proceedings, and prepare cases for court by obtaining additional evidence and drafting charge sheets, indictments and other court documents. Court work involves presenting the State’s case, examining and cross-examining witnesses, and addressing the court on conviction and sentence. The incumbent will also study appeals and reviews, prepare opinions and heads of argument, argue cases in the appropriate courts, and appear in motion applications connected to criminal matters.

Beyond the courtroom, the position requires strategic planning for the division and leadership of staff toward agreed objectives. The post-holder will oversee resources, align them to strategic priorities, and take responsibility for the development, performance management and assessment of team members. Other managerial duties include dealing with representations and complaints, ensuring a consistently high standard of professional work, and promoting partner integration, community involvement and customer satisfaction in cooperation with other role-players in the criminal justice system.

This is a senior public-service appointment with a competitive total cost-to-company package, and it comes with several important conditions. Successful candidates must undergo security clearance at least at confidential level, and the appointment will be provisional until that clearance is granted. Fingerprints will be taken on the day of the interview, and shortlisted applicants’ social media accounts may be accessed as part of verification. Shortlisted candidates will undertake pre-entry assessments covering a practical exercise and integrity, while SMS posts are also subject to a lifestyle audit, a technical exercise and, for some candidates, psychometric assessment. A pre-entry certificate from the National School of Government is required for SMS applicants in Public Service Act positions, although NPA Act appointments are exempt from this requirement. Applicants with foreign qualifications must ensure that these are evaluated by SAQA and provide proof when shortlisted. The NPA reserves the right not to fill the post, and only shortlisted