DEPUTY DIRECTOR: STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The Department of Tourism in Pretoria is advertising a senior managerial position for a Deputy Director: Statistical Analysis. This role sits at the heart of the department’s research and knowledge management function, where the incumbent will lead the analysis of tourism statistics to produce actionable insights on the performance of the tourism sector. The work directly supports evidence-based policymaking, strategic planning, and the monitoring of South Africa’s tourism industries. The position is part of the Senior Management Service (SMS) and offers an all-inclusive remuneration package structured according to the MMS dispensation, meaning it includes a basic salary, government pension fund contributions, and a flexible portion. The successful candidate will be based in Pretoria and will report within the departmental structure that manages tourism data and research.

Candidates must hold a recognised NQF 7 qualification in Statistics, Data Science, Data Analytics, or a related field. They need at least five years of experience in statistical analysis or research, with a minimum of three years at a supervisory level. The role requires proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Access, as well as strong working knowledge of key frameworks including the UN Tourism Framework on Tourism Statistics, the UN Tourism Satellite Account Framework, the National Tourism Sector Strategy, and the Measuring Sustainable Tourism Framework. Familiarity with the National Tourism Statistics Plan, Tourism Growth Partnership Plan, and tourism concepts and definitions is also essential. Applicants should be skilled in both quantitative and qualitative data analysis tools, data management, and statistical techniques, and must demonstrate a sound understanding of the tourism sector. Additional competencies include people management, programme and project management, financial management, performance management, stakeholder management, and strong report-writing and coordination abilities. A valid driver’s licence is required, although candidates with disabilities that prevent them from driving are still eligible for consideration.

The core duties of the Deputy Director involve overseeing and conducting comprehensive analyses of tourism statistics and information to identify trends and patterns across tourism-related industries. This includes developing monthly, quarterly, and annual tourism performance reports for both internal and external stakeholders. The role also entails identifying new sources of tourism statistics and new indicators to monitor sector performance in line with international standards. A key responsibility is establishing and maintaining a centralised statistics repository, ensuring it is regularly updated and accessible, and managing data licences related to tourism statistics. The post holder will support the development of plans and strategies aimed at ensuring the availability of reliable and accurate tourism statistics, identify programmes and projects to achieve this, and monitor the implementation of those strategies. Furthermore, the Deputy Director coordinates the dissemination of tourism statistics and information, selects appropriate platforms for communication, and engages regularly with key stakeholders on statistical matters.

In line with the department’s employment equity targets, applications are particularly encouraged from Coloured Male and White Male candidates, as well as from youth and people with disabilities. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled statistician with supervisory experience and a passion for the tourism sector to contribute to national data systems that inform policy and sector growth. The closing date and application procedures are provided with the official vacancy notice, and interested candidates must ensure their applications are submitted timeously.