REGIONAL DIRECTOR: WEST COAST

This position offers an opportunity to lead social development services across the West Coast region as a Regional Director within the Western Cape Department of Social Development. Operating at a senior management level, the role is responsible for the strategic and operational direction of the directorate, ensuring that the department’s mandate is delivered effectively to communities, families, and vulnerable groups. The Regional Director provides leadership across multiple functional areas, including families and children programmes, special programmes, social crime prevention, restorative services, victim empowerment, substance abuse support, and community development. The role also oversees district business planning, stakeholder management, and corporate services at a regional level, making it a central coordination point between national and provincial priorities and frontline service delivery units.

Candidates must hold an appropriate NQF 7 or higher qualification recognised by SAQA, together with at least five years of relevant experience at middle or senior management level. A key requirement is the successful completion of the Certificate for entry into the Senior Management Service, also known as the Nyukela Pre-Entry Programme, before appointment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate extensive knowledge of applicable policies and procedures, management principles, and the educational environment, as well as core competencies in strategic capability and leadership, people management, programme and project management, financial management, and change management. Strong skills in problem solving, budgeting, communication, facilitation, and strategic thinking are essential, along with the ability to interpret and apply relevant policies.

The duties are wide-ranging and include line management of the directorate’s strategic planning processes, continuous review of objectives and priorities, and evaluation of regional performance against predetermined standards. The Regional Director reports regularly to the Chief Director and the Head of Department on operational management support and matters of substantial importance. People management responsibilities involve recruiting appropriate staff, motivating and guiding employees, managing performance and rewards, promoting sound labour relations, and maintaining discipline. Financial management duties include preparing annual and adjustment budgets, controlling expenditure, ensuring adherence to tender and procurement procedures, managing contracts, overseeing assets, and implementing risk management measures. The role also requires fostering innovation, ensuring compliance with legislation, and maintaining proper records of the directorate’s activities and resources.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend interviews and must submit vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe. They will also undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine suitability based on technical and generic requirements, and an integrity assessment focusing on ethical conduct. This is a demanding but rewarding leadership position for a seasoned public sector manager committed to transforming lives through effective social development delivery.