DEPUTY DIRECTOR: SOCIAL ORGANISATION

This position of Deputy Director: Social Organisation is a senior management role based at the Head Office in Cedara, within the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government. The incumbent will operate at a level that requires strategic oversight of community development and rural enterprise support, specifically focusing on land reform initiatives and the strengthening of community organisations. The role is situated within the broader framework of rural development and the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP), meaning the work is closely aligned with provincial and national strategies aimed at sustainable rural growth. As a deputy director, the post holder will be responsible for guiding the sub-directorate’s resources and ensuring that facilitation support is delivered effectively to communities and emerging enterprises across the province.

Candidates must hold an NQF level 7 Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science, Community Development, or a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, and must possess a valid driver’s licence. A minimum of three years of junior management experience in community development facilitation is required. The role demands a thorough working knowledge of a wide range of legislative and policy frameworks, including the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the Public Service Act, the Public Administration Management Act, the PFMA, the Labour Relations Act, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, and the Promotion of Access to Information Act, among others. Familiarity with community outreach, project management principles, the National Development Plan, the Provincial Growth and Development Plan, and the social dynamics of KwaZulu-Natal communities is also essential. In addition, the successful candidate must demonstrate strong skills in leadership, communication, conflict management, report writing, problem solving, negotiation, policy development, and people management, as well as the ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision.

The core duties involve managing the provision of facilitation support to land reform initiatives and community organisations, with the aim of fostering sustainable rural enterprise development. The Deputy Director will guide and align the formation and engagement of community organisations with the CRDP and rural development strategies and policies. Another key responsibility is managing the effectiveness of access to skills development programmes in support of rural enterprises and the CRDP. The role also requires facilitating cooperation between community organisations and both public and private sector stakeholders, while ensuring the efficient management of the sub-directorate’s human, financial, and other resources.

Applicants should note that this is an all-inclusive, OSD-graded senior management position. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment. Only shortlisted candidates need to submit certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents, and foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA. The department encourages applications from all eligible persons, with equity considerations likely to apply in line with provincial employment equity targets. This summary serves as a guide to the role’s substance, while the official advertisement provides further administrative details.