About the Role
The Department of Transport is seeking a passionate and strategic individual for the position of Director: Aerotropolis Development, based in the vibrant city of Pietermaritzburg. This vital role plays a crucial part in shaping the future of urban and regional development in KwaZulu-Natal. As a Director, you will lead initiatives that focus on the implementation of the Durban Aerotropolis Master Plan and the KZN Regional Airport Strategy, making a significant impact on economic growth and community development. Your efforts will contribute towards establishing the region as a key player in the aviation and logistics sectors, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
In this role, you will not only oversee the strategic vision for the Aerotropolis but will also manage a team dedicated to advancing knowledge and skills in the aviation industry. Your leadership will foster collaboration across various sectors, ensuring the effective execution of plans that drive economic opportunities and sustainable development. This is not just a job; it’s a chance to be part of a transformative journey that benefits the entire community.
About the Department
The Department of Transport is committed to the development and maintenance of a sustainable transport infrastructure that supports economic growth and social development. With a focus on improving connectivity and mobility, the department plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for all South Africans. Working here provides an opportunity to contribute to impactful projects while engaging with innovative approaches to transport solutions.
What You’ll Do
- Provide strategic leadership for implementing the Durban Aerotropolis Master Plan and KZN Regional Airport Strategy.
- Oversee the development of Aerotropolis, ensuring alignment with economic growth and community development goals.
- Manage the Aerotropolis Development Administration, including risk management and budgeting processes.
- Supervise human resources within the team, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
- Offer technical and economic support to advance knowledge and skills in the Aerotropolis and aviation sectors.
What You’ll Need
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Transport Economics, Economic Development, or a related field at NQF Level 7 (as recognised by SAQA).
- Minimum of five years of experience at a Middle/Senior Managerial level in the Transport or Aviation sector.
- Strong knowledge of Aerotropolis theory and its application in economic growth.
- Proven skills in strategic leadership, problem-solving, financial management, and project management.
- A valid driver’s license and completion of the Nyukela Certificate for entry into Senior Management Service upon appointment.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.
Requirements
An appropriate Bachelor’s Degree in Urban or Regional Planning / Transport Economics / Economic Development / Economics / Policy Development / Engineering (Civil, infrastructure), or Transport Logistics at NQF Level 7 as recognised by SAQA.Postgraduate qualifications (highly advantageous) - Master’s Degree in Urban Planning, Economic Development, Economics, Business Administration/ Business Management.
A minimum of five years of experience at a Middle/Senior Managerial level in the Transport and/or Aviation Sector.
Completion of Nyukela Certificate for entry into the SMS (Senior Management Service) upon appointment; A valid driver’s licence.
Skills, Training, and Competencies: The successful candidate must demonstrate in-depth knowledge and understanding of Aerotropolis theory, including how airports become economic growth engines that link logistics, commerce, planning, and community development.
Advanced knowledge of Aerotropolis and airport city development strategy, global value chains, Aerotropolis connectivity, business development, and investment attraction around airports.
Knowledge of Urban planning and spatial development, including land-use planning, master planning frameworks, and sustainability principles.
Economic development principles, including job creation strategies, investment attraction, economic modelling, and regional competitiveness.
Public-private partnerships (PPP) and infrastructure financing, including how government and private investors align funding and risk.
Transport logistics and connectivity planning with intermodal transport (air, road, rail) and logistics infrastructure.
Policy, regulatory, and governance frameworks.
Strong Knowledge of the KZN Integrated Aerotropolis Strategy, Durban Aerotropolis Master Plan, KZN Regional Airport Strategy; basic understanding of the South African Civil Aviation Authority Regulations (SACAA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO); Knowledge and understanding of the regulatory framework for the Public Service, e.
g.
, the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, the Public Service Act, the PFMA, Treasury Regulations, the Public Service Regulations, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the Labour Relations Act, Skills Development Act, Service Delivery Frameworks, policies, and strategies relevant to Aerotropolis development (e.
g.
National Airports Development Plan, Bilateral Agreements).
Skills: Strategic leadership and management Skills.
Strategic capability and leadership, problem-solving, and analysis; financial & budgetary management, administration, people management, risk management, corporate planning, decision-making; Creative, analytical & innovative thinking, Computer literacy, good report-writing, negotiation, verbal and written communication, research, basic driving, presentation, project management, and ability to communicate at all levels, including Provincial Departments, Senior Management, and Private Sector Organizations.
