DEPUTY DIRECTOR: PROPERTY SECTOR ANALYSIS

This position offers an opportunity to lead property sector analysis within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) at its Head Office in Pretoria. The Deputy Director: Property Sector Analysis operates within the Sub-Directorate: Property Sector Regulation, which forms part of the broader Policy, Research & Regulation Branch. The core purpose of the role is to drive the research, policy formulation and legislative development that shapes South Africa’s public property sector. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that property policies and legislation are evidence-based, strategically aligned and responsive to government’s developmental priorities. This is a middle management service position, with the total remuneration package structured in line with the applicable rules for that level.

Candidates must hold a minimum three-year tertiary qualification at NQF Level 06, or a National Diploma in Policy Studies, Law, Real Estate, Commercial or Management Sciences. In addition, relevant experience in real estate, property law, policy and legislative development is required, specifically at a Junior Management level or its equivalent, such as an Assistant Director. The role demands a strong knowledge base covering research, policy formulation and analysis, strategic planning, programme and project management, as well as the legislative frameworks administered by DPWI. Familiarity with the National Policy Development Framework, the Socio Economic Impact Assessment System, the Public Property Sector Regulatory Framework, public procurement regulations, the PFMA and the Public Service Act is essential. A broad understanding of South Africa’s property sector, the structure and functioning of the Department, and its linkages with government clusters is also expected. Key skills include budgeting and financial management, stakeholder liaison, advanced written and verbal communication, report writing, research methodologies, negotiation, mediation, conflict management, problem solving, decision making, diplomacy, public speaking and computer literacy. Personal attributes such as analytical thinking, innovation, creativity, resourcefulness, self-reliance, energy, hard work, self-motivation and the ability to work independently are important. A valid driver’s licence, willingness to travel and flexibility to adapt working hours according to professional requirements are also required.

The duties are wide-ranging and centre on the effective analysis of sources for the development of property policies and legislation. The Deputy Director will consider and report on policy gaps between existing white papers and current government priorities and developmental objectives relating to the property industry. This includes undertaking approved research on property sector topics, consulting with relevant stakeholders, and developing policy position papers that form an integral part of the Public Works function. The role also involves liaising with state and non-state parties through various forums to gather and collate information for the policy and legislation-making process. The post holder will manage the development and review of policy and legislative frameworks within the Sub-Directorate, lead comprehensive property industry analysis, and ensure that all policies, guidelines and standards comply with applicable prescripts and align with the Department’s strategic objectives. Monitoring policy implementation, facilitating policy integration with the PMTE and provincial departments responsible for Public Works, and supporting the transformation agenda of the property sector through collaboration with the Property Sector Charter Council are also central responsibilities. In addition, the Deputy Director will manage the Sub-Directorate’s operational plan, budget and administrative reporting, while contributing to the overall success of the Policy, Research & Regulation Branch.

Applicants should note the special conditions attached to this vacancy. Applications must be submitted on the prescribed Z83 form, fully completed and signed, accompanied by a detailed CV only. Certified copies of qualifications are not required at the application stage, but shortlisted candidates must produce them before the interview. It is important to use the correct version of the Z83 form and to follow all completion instructions, as failure to do so may lead to disqualification. Separate applications must be submitted for each post applied for, and late applications will not be accepted. This is a demanding but rewarding role for a seasoned professional seeking to influence property sector policy at a national level.