Job Profile
Job Title:
Head of Department: Department of Social Development – Free State
Reference: HOD: SD
Duration: 5-Year Fixed-Term Contract
Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
Remuneration:
Salary Level: SMS Level 15
Package: R1,741,770 per annum (All-inclusive remuneration package)
Additional Benefits:
10% Non-Pensionable Head of Department Allowance
Flexible portion of the package can be structured (e.g., 13th cheque, car allowance, housing, and medical aid)
Government’s contribution to the Government Employees Pension Fund
Purpose of the Role:
To provide strategic leadership, effective governance, and operational oversight for the Department of Social Development in the Free State. As the Accounting Officer, the Head of Department (HOD) will ensure performance-driven service delivery aligned with national and provincial priorities while maintaining compliance with relevant legislative frameworks.
Key Responsibilities:
Serve as the Accounting Officer in terms of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
Provide strategic leadership and oversight over all departmental programmes and operations
Align departmental strategy with the political vision of the MEC and Executive Council
Drive transformation, representativity, and reform in line with public service policies
Promote sound human resource practices, training and development, and labour relations
Oversee financial, human, physical, and information resource management
Implement and monitor performance-based systems, annual targets, and departmental priorities
Ensure compliance with legislative, governance, and regulatory requirements
Provide policy advice and strategic support to the MEC and Executive Council
Represent the Department in interdepartmental and provincial technical committees
Foster partnerships with stakeholders and ensure service delivery excellence
Serve as the Department’s Chief Information Officer
Minimum Requirements:
A Postgraduate Qualification (NQF Level 8) as recognized by SAQA
10 years’ experience at a senior management level
Successful completion of the SMS Pre-Entry Certificate (compulsory for appointment; available at NSG Website)
Proven track record in strategic leadership, service delivery improvement, and public sector transformation
Valid security clearance (Top Secret) or willingness to undergo screening
Competency assessment (DPSA SMS Competency Framework) required for shortlisted candidates
Core Competencies:
Strategic Capability and Leadership
Programme and Project Management
Financial Management
Change Management
People Management and Empowerment
Knowledge Management
Policy Formulation and Analysis
Service Delivery Innovation
Communication and Stakeholder Relations
Governance, Risk, and Compliance Management
Reporting Line:
Reports directly to the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Social Development.
Key Relationships:
MEC and Executive Council
Premier’s Office
Other Provincial Departments and Municipalities
National Department of Social Development
Community and Civil Society Organizations
Public Service Commission and Audit Bodies
Enquiries:
Dr. M. Phera
Deputy Director General: Corporate Administration and Coordination
📞 Tel: 082 331 5188
📧 Email: molefinyana.phera@fspremier.gov.za
Applications:
Applications must be submitted on the prescribed Z83 form, available from any Public Service Department. The form must be completed in full and signed by the applicant.
Only a comprehensive CV must accompany the application (certified copies will be requested from shortlisted candidates).
Applications must be sent to:
Contact Person: Ms. Ruth Sefali
Physical Address: Room 406, OR Tambo House, St Andrew Street, Bloemfontein, 9301
Email Address: ruth.sefali@fspremier.gov.za
Closing Date: 22 April 2025 @ 16:00
Note: If you have not been contacted within four months of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Related: Drive Impact. Lead Innovation. Apply Now: Head of Department – DESTEA | Closes 22 April 2025