DIRECTOR–SPECIALNEEDS

This senior management position reports to the Chief Directorate: Integrated Social Welfare within the North West Department of Social Development’s Provincial Office in Mahikeng. The Director for Special Needs is responsible for providing strategic leadership, direction and oversight across the continuum of care and support services for persons with special needs, including the transformation of residential care facilities and the strengthening of community-based alternatives. The role plays a critical part in ensuring vulnerable groups receive quality, rights-based services in line with national policy frameworks, legislative prescripts and departmental strategic objectives. As a director-level appointment, the incumbent is expected to operate within the Public Finance Management Act, the Public Service Act and Regulations, and all policy instruments governing the social development environment, while driving innovation, service delivery excellence and good governance.

Applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate and a bachelor’s degree at NQF Level 7 recognised by SAQA in Social Sciences, Public Administration or Public Management. A minimum of 5 to 10 years of proven experience in the relevant field is required, of which at least 5 years must be at middle management level. A valid driver’s licence is required, as is the pre-entry certificate for the Senior Management Service, commonly known as the Nyukela Certificate. The ideal candidate will demonstrate in-depth knowledge of corporate services management in the public service, policy formulation, project management, labour relations, change management, financial management, and programme and project management. On the competency front, the position demands strategic capability, strong leadership and people management skills, sound financial acumen, excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities, client orientation, effective communication, honesty and integrity, knowledge management, networking, presentation and computer proficiency, and a thorough insight into public sector policy frameworks.

In terms of duties, the Director will manage the transformation of residential care and support services, facilitate the provision of community-based care and support services, and oversee the implementation of capacity-building programmes. The role further requires monitoring and evaluating programme implementation across coordinating structures, establishing and ensuring the funding registration of non-profit organisations in accordance with the Older Persons Act, and developing and enforcing quality assurance programme guidelines. The successful candidate will be expected to sign a performance agreement within three months of appointment, in line with SMS practice. The remuneration is an all-inclusive package at Level 13, comprising a basic salary, pension fund contribution, medical aid contribution and a flexible portion. This is a demanding strategic position suitable for experienced public service leaders who are committed to improving social welfare outcomes for all residents of the North West Province.