DIRECTOR: PROVINCIAL FORENSIC SERVICES

This senior leadership position within the Western Cape Government’s Department of the Premier is responsible for directing the Provincial Forensic Services unit. The Director provides strategic management, expert advice and oversight to ensure that forensic investigations are carried out with integrity, legal compliance and methodological rigour. Operating within the broader public administration environment, the role requires a thorough understanding of constitutional, legal and institutional governance frameworks, as well as the ability to align forensic service delivery with provincial priorities and government outcomes. The position reports to the Chief Director and plays a critical part in supporting oversight structures and promoting sound governance across the province.

Candidates must hold an appropriate qualification at NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA, together with a minimum of five years’ experience at middle or senior managerial level. The role demands proven senior management expertise in legislation and governance, including a deep understanding of modern systems of public administration and the application of constitutional and legal frameworks within the Western Cape’s spatial information priorities. Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act, National and Provincial Treasury Regulations, labour relations legislation, and related financial prescripts and collective agreements is essential, as is the ability to ensure compliance, risk management and sound data governance. Strategic management skills, including policy development, planning, monitoring and evaluation, are also required. The successful candidate will demonstrate comprehensive experience in financial management, procurement and tendering processes, human resource management, and performance systems that drive accountability. Strong programme and project management abilities, operational and knowledge management expertise, and contextual awareness of global, regional and local political and socio-economic dynamics are equally important. Effective communication, thought leadership, persuasion, team-building, planning, and the capacity to manage ambiguity in rapidly changing environments are key personal competencies.

The Director’s duties are extensive. In line management, the post holder will drive the compilation and implementation of an annual reactive forensic services operational plan, contribute to the development and regular review of the Forensic Services Methodology and mandate, and implement a client relations strategy that promotes effective delivery of forensic services. The Director will provide oversight structures such as SCOPA and Audit Committees with relevant information, develop capacity-building interventions for the team, and review and approve the investigation approach, scope and legal compliance of all cases. This includes assessing each reported case to determine merit, supervising the execution of investigations, ensuring proper methodology and qualitative evidence, and reviewing final reports to confirm they are factual and based on the evidence evaluated.

Strategically, the Director defines the purpose, objectives, priorities and activities of the Directorate on a continual basis, drives the strategic planning process, and manages the development of strategic and business plans. The role involves continuously evaluating the Directorate’s performance, proactively reporting on delivery and emerging risks, and reallocating resources as needed. Regular reporting to the Chief Director on operational management matters is required, along with ensuring compliance with legislation and prescripts regarding record keeping and the use of resources. People management responsibilities include recruiting, developing and retaining staff, motivating and training employees, managing performance, overseeing workforce planning, and promoting sound labour relations. Financial management duties include participating in the budgeting process, assuming accountability for efficient and effective expenditure, and ensuring adherence to procurement, tender and contract management requirements. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo further selection processes as stipulated in the advertisement. This is a demanding and rewarding role for an experienced public sector leader seeking to make a significant impact on forensic governance and accountability in the Western Cape.