CHIEF DIRECTOR: AGRICULTURE REGULATORY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

CHIEF DIRECTOR: AGRICULTURE REGULATORY AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

REFERENCE NUMBER: LDARD 1/11/2025 (X1 Post)
SALARY: R1 494 900 per annum (Level 14)
PACKAGE: All-inclusive remuneration package, structured in accordance with the applicable Public Service rules and guidelines
CENTRE: Head Office, Polokwane

NOTE:
This is a re-advertisement. Candidates who previously applied for this post are encouraged to re-apply should they remain interested.

PURPOSE OF THE POST

The Department seeks to appoint a suitably qualified, experienced, and strategic senior manager to serve as Chief Director: Agriculture Regulatory and Technology Development. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing executive leadership, strategic direction, and oversight in the development, coordination, and implementation of agricultural regulatory frameworks, research programmes, technology development initiatives, veterinary services, and agricultural education and training programmes.

The position plays a critical role in advancing agricultural innovation, sustainability, and compliance with statutory and policy mandates while supporting rural development and food security objectives within the Province.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

The incumbent will be expected to provide high-level strategic leadership and direction within the Chief Directorate and ensure the effective execution of departmental mandates. The key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Strategic Leadership and Policy Development

   • Provide strategic leadership in the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of agricultural policies, strategies, and programmes within the Chief Directorate.

   • Ensure alignment of departmental initiatives with national and provincial agricultural priorities, legislation, and policy frameworks.

   • Advise executive management and political principals on matters relating to agricultural regulation, research, technology development, and innovation.

2. Agricultural Research and Technology Development (Animal Production)

   • Manage and coordinate agricultural research and technology development services relating to animal production and livestock development.

   • Promote innovation, best practices, and sustainable approaches in animal health, breeding, and production systems.

   • Strengthen partnerships with research institutions, academic bodies, and industry stakeholders to enhance research outcomes.

3. Agricultural Research and Technology Development (Crop Production)

   • Oversee and coordinate crop research programmes, technology development initiatives, and extension support aimed at improving productivity, sustainability, and climate resilience.

   • Ensure the adoption and dissemination of modern agricultural technologies and best practices among stakeholders and beneficiaries.

4. Veterinary Services Management

   • Manage and coordinate the provision of veterinary services to ensure animal health, disease prevention, food safety, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

   • Ensure effective implementation of veterinary legislation, policies, and standards in line with national and international obligations.

5. Agricultural Education and Training

   • Manage and coordinate agricultural education and training programmes, ensuring alignment with sector skills needs and national qualification frameworks.

   • Promote capacity building, skills development, and professional growth within the agricultural sector.

6. Resource Management and Governance

   • Manage and utilize financial, human, and physical resources in compliance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Public Service Act, and other applicable legislation.

   • Ensure sound financial planning, budgeting, expenditure control, and reporting within the Chief Directorate.

   • Promote good governance, risk management, and accountability.

REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 certificate.

• An appropriate undergraduate/bachelor’s degree (NQF Level 7) in Agriculture or a relevant equivalent qualification recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

• A minimum of five (5) years’ experience at a senior managerial level within the agriculture sector.

• A valid driver’s licence (with exception of persons with disabilities).

• Proof of completion of the Senior Management Service (SMS) Pre-entry Certificate must be submitted prior to appointment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

The successful candidate must demonstrate the following:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of the legislative and regulatory framework governing the Public Service.

• In-depth knowledge of agricultural research, technology development, and innovation systems.

• Understanding of the Agricultural Education and Training (AET) environment.

• Proven experience and thorough understanding of the agriculture and rural development sector.

Core and Process Competencies:

• Strategic capability and leadership

• People management and empowerment

• Programme and project management

• Financial management

• Change management

• Knowledge management

• Service delivery innovation

• Problem-solving and analytical skills

• Client orientation and customer focus

• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)

ENQUIRIES

For further information regarding this post, please contact:

• Ms M.M. Modiba – Tel: (015) 294 3170

• Ms R.L. Mothapo – Tel: (015) 294 3235

• Ms M.A. Kgobe – Tel: (015) 294 3347