JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

SUMMARY OF JOB POSTS LISTED

Are you a visionary public sector leader ready to shape South Africa’s social development agenda?
The Department of Social Development (DSD) invites exceptional, results-driven professionals to apply for the prestigious role of Director-General: Social Development.

This is a rare opportunity to serve at the highest executive level of government, providing strategic leadership that directly impacts the lives of millions of South Africans. The position is offered on a five-year fixed-term contract, based at the DSD Head Office in Pretoria.

Why This Opportunity Matters

As Director-General, you will:

• Drive national social development priorities

• Lead a complex, high-impact government department

• Advise and support the Executive Authority

• Influence policy, governance, and service delivery at a national level

Position Overview

• Title: Director-General: Social Development

• Reference: A1/2026

• Location: Pretoria – HSRC Building

• Contract: Five-year fixed-term

Competitive Executive Package

The successful candidate will receive an all-inclusive annual remuneration package of R2 352 642, plus a 10% non-pensionable Head of Department allowance.
This package includes pension benefits and a flexible portion structured in accordance with government regulations.

Who Should Apply

This role is suited to senior executives who bring:

• A postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8) in Public Administration, Social Sciences, or Public Management

• 10+ years of senior management experience in the public sector

• Expert knowledge of:

  • South Africa’s constitutional and legislative framework

  • Public Service and financial management legislation (PFMA, Treasury Regulations)

  • Social assistance policies and frameworks

  • National Development Plan (NDP)

  • POPIA, PAIA, and corporate governance principles (King IV)

Leadership Profile

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with:

• Proven executive leadership and governance capability

• Strong financial, programme, and change management skills

• Excellent people management and stakeholder engagement abilities

• Decisive leadership, negotiation, and communication skills

• A track record of ethical leadership, accountability, and innovation

• The ability to lead transformation in a dynamic public service environment

Your Key Role

You will be responsible for:

• Leading the strategic direction and administration of the Department

• Ensuring effective implementation of the Department’s constitutional mandate

• Strengthening partnerships across government and with key stakeholders

• Supporting oversight of public entities and regulatory bodies

• Acting as the primary link between the Executive Authority and the Department

How to Apply

Submit the following documents:

• A completed and signed Z83 form (effective from 1 January 2021)

• A comprehensive CV detailing experience and responsibilities

• Two contactable referees

Shortlisted candidates will be required to present certified qualifications and supporting documents during the interview process. Completion of the SMS Pre-Entry Programme (National School of Government) is mandatory for SMS posts.

Submission Details

📮 Postal Address:
Director-General
Department of Social Development
Private Bag X901
Pretoria, 0001

📍 Physical Address: HSRC Building, 134 Pretorius Street, Pretoria
📧 Email Applications: eRecruit.DG123@dsd.gov.za
👤 Attention: Mr S Boshielo

Closing Date

🗓 13 February 2026

Late applications will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not been contacted within three months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Enquiries

For further details, please contact:
Mr XA Brukwe
☎ (012) 312-7654 / 7866

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