Director: Legal Services (Ref No: LEGAL/2026)
The Free State Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs (FSDARDEA) is inviting suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Director: Legal Services. This senior management role is based at Glen, Free State, and offers an opportunity to provide strategic legal leadership, ensure legislative compliance, and manage legal risks across the Department.
Position Details
- Job Title: Director: Legal Services
- Reference Number: LEGAL/2026
- Location: Glen, Free State
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Salary: R1 317 384 per annum (Level 13), plus a competitive remuneration package, which may include:
- Government Employees Pension Fund
- 13th cheque
- Motor vehicle allowance
- Housing allowance
- Medical aid assistance
Closing Date: 07 August 2026
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- An appropriate NQF Level 7 qualification in Law, recognised by SAQA.
- Admission as an Attorney or Advocate.
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience at middle or senior management level in a legal environment.
- A valid Code B driver’s licence.
- A completed Nyukela SMS Pre-entry Certificate prior to appointment.
Key Knowledge and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Extensive knowledge of South African Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, Labour Law, Contract Law, Civil Litigation, Mediation, and interpretation of legislation.
- Strong understanding of the Constitution of South Africa and legislation applicable to the Public Service.
- Excellent legal drafting, policy interpretation, and advisory skills.
- Strategic leadership, financial management, programme management, change management, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
- Strong communication, problem-solving, coordination, and policy implementation skills.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Provide legal guidance and strategic support to the MEC, senior management, and departmental officials.
- Manage litigation and legal risk on behalf of the Department.
- Draft and review legal opinions, contracts, and agreements.
- Coordinate legislative review and legal reform initiatives.
- Ensure departmental compliance with national, international, and continental legal frameworks.
- Advise on Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and monitor compliance.
- Represent the Department in legal proceedings, including:
- Labour Court
- CCMA
- Bargaining Councils
- Civil and labour litigation
- Contribute to the Department’s strategic planning and Annual Performance Plan.
- Manage the Directorate’s budget, staff performance, training, mentoring, and resource allocation.
How to Apply
Applications must include:
- A completed new Z83 Application Form.
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Applications can be submitted:
- By Email: recruitment@dard.gov.za
- By Hand: Mrs S Hlekiso, Room 228, 2nd Floor, Admin Building, Glen
- By Post: Private Bag X02, Bloemfontein, 9301
Quote the reference number LEGAL/2026 on your application.
Closing Date: 07 August 2026
Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, ID, driver’s licence, service certificates, and any other supporting documentation before interviews. Background checks, security vetting, integrity assessments, and reference checks will form part of the recruitment process.
If you do not receive feedback within four months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.