About the Role
The Department of Transport is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional for the position of Director: Aerotropolis Development based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This pivotal role involves providing strategic leadership in the implementation of the Durban Aerotropolis Master Plan and the KZN Regional Airport Strategy, ensuring the development of a thriving aviation industry that drives economic growth and community development. The successful candidate will not only oversee critical projects but will also play an essential part in enhancing the knowledge and skills within the Aerotropolis sector, making a tangible impact on the local and regional economy.
The role of Director: Aerotropolis Development is vital for fostering a robust transport and aviation framework, which is essential for connecting communities and businesses. By enhancing aerotropolis development, this position contributes significantly to job creation and sustainable urban planning, ultimately leading to a better quality of life for the residents of Pietermaritzburg and beyond. This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of transforming the aviation landscape in South Africa, promoting public service values while driving innovative economic solutions.
About the Department
The Department of Transport in KwaZulu-Natal is committed to creating a safe, efficient, and sustainable transport system that enhances mobility and accessibility for all citizens. Its mandate encompasses the planning, development, and management of transport infrastructure and services, with a focus on promoting economic growth and social development within the province. Working within this department means being part of a dedicated team that strives to improve the lives of South Africans by ensuring that transport systems are responsive to the needs of communities.
What You’ll Do
- Lead the implementation of the Durban Aerotropolis Master Plan and KZN Regional Airport Strategy.
- Provide strategic oversight for the development of Aerotropolis and the aviation industry.
- Advance knowledge and skills in aerotropolis development and aviation.
- Manage the Aerotropolis Development Administration, including risk and budget management.
- Supervise human resources within the Aerotropolis Development framework.
- Collaborate with various stakeholders to align funding and promote investment attraction.
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks and policies.
What You’ll Need
- A relevant Bachelor’s Degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Transport Economics, Economic Development, or related fields at NQF Level 7.
- A minimum of five years’ experience in a middle/senior managerial role within the Transport or Aviation sector.
- Postgraduate qualifications, such as a Master’s Degree, are highly advantageous.
- Completion of the Nyukela Certificate for entry into the Senior Management Service.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Strong knowledge of aerotropolis theory, urban planning, and economic development principles.
- Demonstrated leadership and management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels.
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.
