HEAD: PROJECT DEVELOPMENT

This is a senior management role within the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements, based in Sandton, and offered on a five-year fixed contract. The position sits within the Project Development and Compliance directorate and is responsible for providing strategic direction to the Project Development Programme. The successful candidate will shape operating models that guide the development, compliance, and evaluation of infrastructure projects that are strategically viable. The role is central to ensuring that projects move through the full lifecycle—from initiation and business case development, through feasibility assessment and funding sustainability, to monitoring, evaluation, and contract management—ultimately reaching the point of bankability. In addition, the Head of Project Development will oversee projects identified for alternative funding, ensuring that planning and budgeting for provincial infrastructure projects are coordinated and aligned. The position also carries responsibility for promoting good governance, sound ethical compliance, and effective management of resources within the business unit.

Applicants must be registered with a relevant professional body, specifically the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) or the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP). A valid driver’s licence is required, as is the SMS Pre-Entry Certificate (Nyukela). Because this is a Senior Management Service post, the successful completion of the Public Service Senior Management Leadership Programme, endorsed by the National School of Government, is required prior to appointment. Candidates with foreign qualifications must have them evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), and it is the applicant’s responsibility to arrange this.

The duties are broad and strategic, encompassing oversight of project initiation, business case development, feasibility assessments, and sustainability for project funding. The role also includes monitoring and evaluation, contract management, and ensuring that projects are bankable. The post holder will manage resources and ensure that the business unit operates with integrity and in line with governance frameworks. This is a demanding leadership position that requires both technical expertise and the ability to manage complex infrastructure programmes.

The department promotes equal opportunity and affirmative action, with preference given to appointable applicants from underrepresented designated groups in line with the departmental equity plan. Candidates whose appointment will advance representativity in terms of race, disability, youth, and gender will receive preference, and Whites, Indians, Coloureds, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All shortlisted candidates, including SMS applicants, will undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment. Shortlisted SMS candidates will also face a technical exercise and interview, after which up to three candidates may undergo psychometric assessments covering cognitive abilities, behavioural preferences, emotional intelligence, and integrity. A generic management competency assessment may also be required. Applications must be submitted online, accompanied by a new Z83 form and a comprehensive CV; certified copies of qualifications, identity documents, and driver’s licences are only required from shortlisted candidates. Correspondence is limited to shortlisted applicants, and those not contacted within three months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment.