Regional Skills Advisor (KwaZulu-Natal)

The Regional Skills Advisor position, based in KwaZulu-Natal, is a fixed-term contract role that runs until 2030, focused on managing and supporting skills development initiatives within the chemical sector at both provincial and national levels. This role sits within the broader framework of the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority, commonly known as CHIETA, and acts as a crucial bridge between the authority and companies operating in the chemical industry. The advisor is expected to drive the strategic goals of skills development, ensuring that training programmes and funding mechanisms align with the needs of the sector and with national skills development priorities.

Candidates applying for this position must possess an NQF Level 7 qualification in one of several fields, including finance, project management, public administration, business administration, human resource management or development, or ODETDP. Alongside this academic foundation, a minimum of three to five years of practical work experience in a skills development or human resource development environment is required. A background within a SETA, the chemical industry, engineering, or an artisan trade would be considered an advantage. Additionally, applicants must hold a valid driver's licence, specifically Code EB, and have access to a reliable vehicle, as the role demands travel away from home on a regular basis. Advanced skills in MS Excel and other MS Office applications are essential, as is the ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a hybrid work setting.

The core duties of the Regional Skills Advisor include managing skills development activities within assigned organisations, providing advice to stakeholders on CHIETA's mandatory and discretionary grant processes, and handling the administration of Workplace Skills Plans and Annual Training Reports. The position also involves identifying and recruiting new companies within the chemical sector, thereby expanding the reach of skills development programmes. The advisor is responsible for conducting capacity-building workshops for Skills Development Facilitators and other industry stakeholders, as well as evaluating the progress of discretionary grant-funded training initiatives. Beyond these direct training functions, the role requires maintaining accurate quality management system records, tracking project milestones and memoranda of agreement, and preparing financial reports. The advisor must also perform due diligence on grant applicants and generate payment requests for discretionary grants, combining strategic industry engagement with meticulous financial and compliance oversight. This is a demanding yet rewarding position that requires a self-motivated individual who can operate effectively both independently and as part of a broader team, while navigating the complexities of the chemical sector's skills development landscape.