About the Role
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions to join their Pretoria Head Office. This pivotal role is not just about managing cases; it’s about safeguarding justice in South Africa. The successful candidate will play an essential part in leading and guiding teams of prosecutors, ensuring that the mandate of the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs (SOCA) unit is executed with integrity and professionalism. Your contributions will directly impact the lives of individuals and communities, making this an incredibly rewarding position in the public service sector.
As the Deputy Director, you will be based in the vibrant city of Pretoria, where the heart of South Africa’s legal system beats. You’ll work closely with various stakeholders, fostering partnerships that enhance the effectiveness of the criminal justice system. This role matters immensely to the community, as it aims to uphold the law, support victims of gender-based violence, and ensure that offenders are prosecuted appropriately. Your leadership and expertise will be vital in driving public awareness campaigns and training sessions that educate and empower communities.
About the Department
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is dedicated to ensuring that justice is served in South Africa. Its mission is to lead the prosecution of criminal cases while promoting a fair and effective criminal justice system. Working at the NPA means being part of a team that strives to protect the rights of victims and hold offenders accountable. The NPA plays a critical role in reinforcing the rule of law and enhancing public safety, making it an impactful workplace for those passionate about justice and social change.
What You’ll Do
- Manage portfolios assigned by the Special Director and oversee the operations of the SOCA unit.
- Liaise with and manage relevant stakeholders, enhancing collaboration within the criminal justice system.
- Train and guide cluster managers, prosecutors, and stakeholders in matters relating to the SOCA mandate.
- Provide guidance on investigations and represent the NPA in prosecuting cases as required.
- Review case dockets and documents to make informed decisions regarding criminal proceedings.
- Prepare and appear in court for appeals and reviews as instructed by the Special Director.
- Strategically lead the implementation of unit strategies while ensuring operational efficiency.
- Oversee resource allocation to align with strategic objectives and ensure compliance with governance standards.
- Compile reports and maintain quality control of statistics related to the SOCA mandate.
- Initiate public awareness campaigns and training sessions to enhance community involvement.
What You’ll Need
- An LLB degree or equivalent legal qualification for serving prosecutors.
- A minimum of 10 years’ post-qualification legal experience in criminal law litigation.
- Right of appearance as per the NPA Act, 32 of 1998, along with admission as an Attorney/Advocate.
- Strong advocacy and legal drafting skills, with extensive knowledge of the Criminal Procedure Act and gender-based violence legislation.
- Experience in middle management, including project management and administration skills.
- Excellent interpersonal, analytical, presentation, and communication skills.
- Familiarity with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and financial management practices.
- A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively, with positive security clearance.
How to Apply
Please follow the application instructions below to submit your application.
Requirements
An LLB.For serving prosecutors seeking promotion any appropriate legal qualification.
At least 10 years' post qualification legal experience in criminal law litigation.
(Regional and/or High court experience will be an advantage).
Right of appearance as contemplated in section 25(2) of the NPA Act, 32 of 1998.
Admission as an Attorney/Advocate is a pre-requisite.
Demonstrable competency in acting Independently, Professionally, Accountable and with Credibility.
Good advocacy and legal drafting skills.
Extensive knowledge of the Criminal Procedure Act and gender-based violence legislation.
(Completed GBVF training courses).
Demonstrable Knowledge and expertise of the GBVF mandate of the SOCA unit in the areas of Domestic Violence, Sexual Offences, Child Justice, Maintenance, Trafficking in Persons & all other GBV matters generally is required.
Good interpersonal, analytical, presentation and communication skills.
Seven (7) years middle management experience which includes administration and Project management skills.
Knowledge and application of GBV legislation, regulations and policies.
Knowledge of Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and financial management skills.
Good planning skills, including administrative, organizational and Project management skills.
Skills in public awareness initiatives and stakeholder management.
Skills in research, development and presentation of training material in related fields.
Knowledge of strategic planning and operational implementation of initiatives.
Good verbal, communication and presentation skills.
Knowledge of the Labour Relations Act and disciplinary process.
Knowledge of international legislation and protocols will be added advantage, and the candidate must be prepared and able to travel extensively.
Positive Security Clearance.
Computer Literacy and knowledge of programs in Ms Word & Teams, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint is mandatory.
A Valid driver's licence.
Job Duties
Manage the portfolios assigned by the Special Director.Liaison and management of relevant stakeholders.
Manage, train and guide SOCA cluster managers, prosecutors and stakeholders in respect of all matters relating to the SOCA mandate.
Provide prosecutor guided investigations and prosecute cases when requested to do so by the Special Director.
Study case dockets and other documents relating to SOCA mandate, representations and to make and review decisions with regard to the institution of criminal proceedings.
Prepare cases for court, appear in appeals and reviews on the instruction of the SDPP.
Prepare legal opinions.
Strategically lead and implement the strategies of the unit and ensure operational implementation.
Oversee resources and align them to strategic objectives.
Development, performance management and assessment of staff members.
Deal with representations and complaints.
Ensure that a high standard of professional work is being carried out.
Promote partner integration, community involvement and customer satisfaction in conjunction with partners in the criminal justice system.
Initiate and coordinate public awareness campaigns and related training sessions.
Assist in budget planning and donor funding management.
Represent the NPA on SOCA mandate related matters with the media or any other platform on request of the SDPP.
Quality control of statistics and performance management in relation to SOCA mandate.
Compile reports as and when requested or required by the SOCA mandate for submission.
Ensure good governance and compliance.
Perform any other task the SDPP deems to be necessary
