REGIONAL HEAD: INCARCERATIONS, CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION

This senior leadership position within the Department of Correctional Services is responsible for directing and overseeing all correctional operations across the Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West region. As the Regional Head for Incarcerations, Corrections and Rehabilitation, the incumbent will be accountable for ensuring that the region fulfils its core mandate of providing a safe, secure and humane environment for the public, personnel and all persons legally entrusted to the care of the department. The role sits at the heart of the criminal justice system, requiring a strategic leader who can translate national policy into effective regional implementation while managing complex operational realities.

The successful candidate must possess an undergraduate qualification at NQF level 7 in Behavioural Science or a related field, recognised by SAQA, and must hold a certificate for entry into the Senior Management Services obtained from the National School of Government. A minimum of five years’ experience at middle or senior managerial level is required, along with an active security clearance, computer literacy and a valid driver’s licence. The role demands deep knowledge of the South African Criminal Justice System and the architecture of Correctional Services, as well as a thorough understanding of public service policy and the legislative framework governing the sector, including the Public Service Act, the Public Finance Management Act and, critically, the Correctional Services Act 111 of 1998 as amended.

Key duties include managing healthcare services and incarceration management to ensure the wellbeing and safety of inmates, as well as overseeing self-sufficiency and sustainability programmes that support rehabilitation and reintegration. The Regional Head will also be responsible for the management of human resources, finances, assets and performance information, ensuring that the region operates efficiently, transparently and in line with departmental standards. This requires strong strategic capability and leadership, policy development skills, and proficiency in project and programme management. The role also demands competencies in transformation and change management, client orientation, problem solving, service delivery innovation, decision making and financial management. The incumbent must demonstrate people management and empowerment, integrity, honesty, confidentiality and sound interpersonal relations. Additional personal attributes include assertiveness, diplomacy, tact, networking ability, and the capacity to influence and make an impact across a wide range of stakeholders.

This is an OSD-graded senior management post, and appointment will be made under the Correctional Services Act. The position is based in the region covering Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West, and the successful candidate will be expected to travel as required. Given the sensitive nature of the work, the ability to handle confidential information and maintain the highest ethical standards is essential. This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced corrections or public service executive seeking to make a meaningful contribution to the rehabilitation and safe custody of offenders at a regional level.