Director: Special Programmes Ref No: 07/2025

Director: Special Programmes Ref No: 07/2025

The Free State Office of the Premier invites applications from dynamic and visionary leaders for the role of Director: Special Programmes. This position plays a central role in driving transformation and equity across government through the coordination of strategic policies, commemorative events, and special interventions that uplift vulnerable and designated groups.

As the champion of special programmes across the province, the successful candidate will shape inclusive policies, manage transversal projects, and ensure alignment with national imperatives and provincial growth strategies. This is a leadership opportunity for professionals with experience in social development, transformation programmes, and high-impact public service delivery.

Job Overview:

• Job Title: Director: Special Programmes
• Company: Free State Office of the Premier
• Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
• Reference Number: 07/2025
• Salary: R1 266 714 per annum (Level 13, all-inclusive SMS package)

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Policy Development & Monitoring

• Develop and update transversal provincial strategies and policies relating to special programmes (e.g., youth, women, persons with disabilities, older persons, LGBTQI+, etc.)

• Maintain a comprehensive database of relevant policies from international, national, and provincial sources

• Identify and address gaps in current policy frameworks; initiate development of new strategies

• Assist line departments in customising and aligning departmental policies with overarching provincial frameworks

• Ensure alignment of special programme strategies with:

  • National priorities

  • Free State Growth and Development Plan (FSGDP)

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Institutional Support

• Establish relevant monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, including performance indicators and reporting tools

• Set up appropriate structures to enhance implementation and compliance at local and provincial government levels

• Report on the implementation of special programmes across departments

• Deliver presentations to key provincial decision-making structures, including EXCO and FOHOD

Programme Implementation & Events Coordination

• Coordinate provincial commemorative events and campaigns linked to national or Premier-assigned priorities (e.g., Women’s Month, Disability Rights Awareness Month, Youth Month)

• Manage strategic special projects as assigned by the Premier

• Oversee implementation of special programme initiatives within the Office of the Premier

• Customise and operationalise relevant special programme policies for the Premier’s Office

Directorate & Resource Management

• Oversee the Special Programmes Directorate, ensuring optimal resource allocation, financial accountability, and high-performance culture

• Manage the directorate’s budget, human resources, and strategic planning

• Ensure staff performance management, job descriptions, training, and development plans are in place

• Provide strategic advice and mentorship to team members

Minimum Requirements:

• A NQF Level 7 qualification (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) as recognised by SAQA

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience at middle or senior management level in a similar policy or programme coordination environment

• SMS Pre-entry Certificate is mandatory prior to appointment
  *(Details: NSG SMS Course)

• Proven experience in:

  • Developing and implementing turnaround strategies

  • Budgeting and financial management

  • Project management and intergovernmental coordination

• In-depth knowledge of:

  • Legislation and public policies relevant to special programmes

  • Monitoring & evaluation systems, reporting frameworks, and performance indicators

  • Strategic planning, transformation, and inclusive governance

Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic and analytical thinking

• High-level interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills

• Organising, planning and facilitation

• Leadership and people management

• Policy analysis and presentation skills

• Ability to operate in multi-stakeholder environments with sensitivity and tact

Benefits:

• Inclusive remuneration package (Level 13): R1 266 714 p.a.
  (Includes pension contribution, flexible remuneration, 13th cheque option, housing and car allowances, medical aid assistance)

• Performance agreement to be signed within 3 months of appointment

• Participation in strategic provincial decision-making forums and high-level policy work

Application Instructions:

• Closing Date: 12 September 2025 at 16:00

• Applications must be submitted using the New Z83 form (obtainable from any government department or DPSA website)

• Include only a detailed CV with your application
  (Certified copies of qualifications and ID will be requested from shortlisted candidates only)

• Submit applications by:

  Hand Delivery:
  Room 7, Ground Floor, O.R. Tambo House, Bloemfontein
  Attention: Mr. Thabo Tsotetsi / Ms. Leanne Terblanche

  Email:
  recruitment@fspremier.gov.za
  (Use Ref No: 07/2025 in the subject line)

Enquiries:

Dr. MP Mokalobe
Deputy Director General: Provincial Policy Planning and Coordination

 079 882 0300

Additional Notes:

• All shortlisted candidates will undergo a technical competency assessment

• Following interviews, recommended candidates must complete the DPSA SMS competency assessment

• The department reserves the right not to fill the post

• Equity targets will be applied in line with departmental policy

• People with disabilities and members of designated groups are encouraged to apply

• If you do not hear from the department within 4 months, please consider your application unsuccessful

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