Deputy Director: Population Policy And Strategy – Pretoria – Department Of Social Development

Deputy Director: Population Policy and Strategy in Pretoria for the Department of Social Development, a meaningful government job in South Africa

Published 19 October 2026
Closing Date Closed
Location
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Social Development is seeking a dedicated individual for the role of Deputy Director: Population Policy and Strategy, based in Pretoria. This position plays a crucial part in shaping and managing the population policies that directly impact the lives of South Africans. By developing, reviewing, and monitoring these critical strategies, you will help ensure that the needs of the community are met, fostering a more equitable society.

As a Deputy Director, your contributions will be vital in coordinating South Africa’s international strategy on population and development. You will work closely with various stakeholders to enhance partnerships and collaborations, ensuring that population policies are implemented effectively. This role is not just about policy; it’s about making a tangible difference in the public service sector and improving the quality of life for citizens across the nation.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development is dedicated to promoting social change and development that uplifts communities and empowers individuals. Its mission is to provide social services that ensure the well-being of all South Africans, particularly the most vulnerable. Working within this department means being part of a team that values integrity, inclusivity, and the commitment to service excellence, making it a fulfilling environment for professionals who are passionate about social impact.

What You’ll Do

  • Develop and manage population policies, strategies, and frameworks.
  • Oversee the implementation and evaluation of South Africa’s international population and development strategy.
  • Establish monitoring and evaluation systems related to population policy.
  • Coordinate stakeholder engagements and collaborative efforts to enhance population policy effectiveness.
  • Manage human resources following established policies and performance management standards.

What You’ll Need

  • A qualification at NQF level 7 in Population Studies, Demography, or Social Sciences.
  • 3-5 years of experience in a junior management role within the population and development sector.
  • In-depth knowledge of the South African Constitution, Social Development sector, and relevant legislation.
  • Strong understanding of government monitoring and evaluation practices.
  • Proven competencies in project management, stakeholder engagement, and policy analysis.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.

Requirements

A qualification at NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA in Population Studies/ Demography Studies or Social Sciences PLUS 3-5 years’ experience in junior management level in population and development environment.

Knowledge and understanding of Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.

Knowledge and understanding of the Social Development sector.

Knowledge and understanding of the Public Service Act and Regulations.

Knowledge and understanding of the South African Population Policy.

Knowledge and understanding of the PAJA, POPIA and PAIA.

Knowledge of Population and Development Policy and legislations.

Knowledge of government monitoring and evaluation.

Knowledge of Quality Control Methods.

Competencies needed: Programme and project management skills.

Information and Knowledge management skills.

People management and empowerment skills.

Problem solving and change management skills.

Policy analysis and development skills.

Client orientation and customer focus.

Service delivery innovation skills.

Financial management skills.

Communication (verbal and written) skills.

Report writing skills.

Computer literacy.

Stakeholder management skills.

Planning and coordination skills.

Presentation and facilitation skills.

Research, monitoring and evaluation skills.

Attributes: Good interpersonal relation.

Ability to work under pressure.

Innovative and creative.

Ability to work in a team and independently.

Adaptability.

Emotional intelligence.

Independent thinker.

Cost consciousness.

Honesty, reliability and integrity.

Assertiveness.

Job Duties

Develop, manage, review, and monitor the implementation of population policy, strategies, plans, and frameworks.

Coordinate and manage the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of South Africa’s international strategy on population and development.

Develop and manage monitoring and evaluation systems in relation to population policy.

Coordinate the engagements, collaboration, and partnerships with various stakeholders.

Manage human resource in line with human resource management, labour relations and human resource development & performance management policies.

Salary

R932 292 per annum. This inclusive remuneration package consists of a basic salary, the states’ contribution to the Government Employees Pension Fund and a flexible portion that may be structured i.t.o. the applicable rules.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered. Do not submit duplicate applications. If applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications for each post. Due to high volumes, the Department will not acknowledge receipt of applications. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not heard from us within 3 months, please consider your application to be unsuccessful. Should, during any stage of the recruitment process, a moratorium be placed on the filling of posts or the Department is affected by any process such as, but not limited to, restructuring or reorganisation of posts, the Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process and re-advertise the post at any time in the future. Important: DOA is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting representivity and affirmative action. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates. The Department reserves the right not to fill vacancies. By applying you consent to the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to be available for assessments and interviews at a date and time as determined by the Department. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, security vetting and reference checks (including social media profiles). Applications must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary or any other allegations or investigations. Successful candidates must pass security clearance, sign an employment contract, sign an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests. All applicants are required to declare any conflict or perceived conflict of interest, to disclose memberships of Boards and directorships that they may be associated with. Failure to disclose relevant information may result in disqualification or termination. OTHER POSTS For Enquiries: Ms T Gumbeni Tel No: (012) 312-7924