DIRECTOR: MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned senior manager to lead municipal infrastructure oversight within the Western Cape Government’s Department of Local Government. As the Director: Municipal Infrastructure, you will be responsible for steering the department’s efforts to support and monitor municipalities across the province, ensuring that infrastructure planning, maintenance, development, and budgeting are executed effectively and sustainably. The role sits at a strategic level within the provincial local government sphere, requiring close collaboration with municipal officials, district and metro structures, and other stakeholders to foster integrated, long-term infrastructure solutions that align with municipal budgets and joint planning processes.

To be considered for this demanding leadership role, applicants must possess a relevant qualification at NQF level 7, as recognised by SAQA, coupled with at least five years of experience at middle or senior management level. The role demands a robust set of competencies, including strategic capability and leadership, project and programme management, change management, people management and empowerment, and financial management. These skills are essential for providing credible direction and support to municipalities, as well as for managing the internal teams and resources of the department.

The core duties of the Director are multifaceted and centre on improving municipal infrastructure governance and service delivery. You will be tasked with monitoring municipal infrastructure planning, maintenance, development, and budgeting, while also facilitating long-term planning and funding approaches that take into account municipal fiscal realities and the need for a joint district and metro approach. A significant part of the role involves supporting municipalities with full life-cycle asset planning, including the development of frameworks, policies, and systems. You will also provide professional and technical support to municipalities regarding the implementation of the Municipal Capital Budget, and ensure that municipal performance is monitored effectively. In addition to these technical functions, the Director is responsible for strategic management, including change management, as well as financial and people management within the unit, ensuring that the department’s objectives are met efficiently and in line with provincial priorities.

Shortlisted candidates should be prepared for a rigorous selection process. This includes attending interviews on a date determined by the department, submitting duly completed and signed vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe, and undertaking two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise focused on technical and generic suitability, and another integrity assessment relating to ethical conduct. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department. Furthermore, by applying, candidates consent to the Western Cape Government contacting previous employers for reference checks, which will include enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. This is a high-impact role for a leader committed to improving municipal infrastructure outcomes and driving positive change within local government.