Director: Communications & Marketing Services – Pietermaritzburg – Department Of Communications & Marketing Services

Director: Communications & Marketing Services in Pietermaritzburg, government job in South Africa

Published 13 October 2026
Closing Date 23 October 2026
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Communications & Marketing Services is seeking a dedicated Director to lead their efforts from the head office located in Pietermaritzburg. This pivotal role involves managing internal and external communications, along with crafting effective marketing and communication campaigns that resonate with the community. By fostering robust stakeholder and community liaisons, the Director will play a crucial part in advancing the public service mission and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and represented.

The significance of this role extends beyond typical job functions. It directly influences how the Department engages with the community, enhancing transparency and trust. This position is essential for shaping public perception and facilitating meaningful dialogue between the government and its citizens, making it a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about public service in South Africa.

About the Department

The Department of Communications & Marketing Services is dedicated to enhancing the flow of information between the government and the public. Its mission revolves around effective communication and strategic marketing, ensuring that citizens are well-informed and engaged with government initiatives. Working in this department means contributing to a vital aspect of public service that empowers communities, promotes understanding, and builds a stronger society.

What You’ll Do

  • Oversee the development and execution of internal and external communication strategies
  • Manage marketing and communication campaigns to promote departmental initiatives
  • Facilitate stakeholder engagement and community relations
  • Develop and implement policies to streamline communication efforts
  • Ensure effective management of resources within the office of the Directorate

What You’ll Need

  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or Journalism (NQF level 7)
  • A minimum of five years of relevant experience at Middle/Senior Managerial level
  • Completion of the Nyukela Certificate for entry into the SMS (Senior Management Service) before appointment
  • A valid driver’s license
  • Advanced knowledge of government communication systems and frameworks
  • Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with a focus on communication and negotiation

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 Communications, Marketing, Public Relations or Journalism at NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA.

A Postgraduate Degree in Communication and extensive experience will serve as an added advantage A minimum of five years relevant experience at Middle / Senior Managerial level in a Communications, Marketing, Public Relations or Journalism environment Completion of Nyukela Certificate for entry into the SMS (Senior Management Service) before appointment A valid driver’s licence.

Skills, Training, And Competencies: The successful candidate must have advanced knowledge of Government communication systems and frameworks, including GCIS guidelines, Media relations, marketing, branding, and public relations principles, Strategic communication and reputation management, Crisis communication and media response management, and Policy development and strategic planning processes.

Knowledge of the Electronic Communications Act, Broadcasting Act, Independent Communications Authority of South Africa Act, functioning of National, Provincial and Local Government, structure and functioning of the Department, Parliamentary protocol processes, linkages with government clusters, Media and Marketing industry, cross-cultural knowledge, client relations, Public Outreach.

Demonstrable understanding of media technology, creative and graphic design, and broadcast technology.

•Conceptualization and presentation of cutting-edge communication and marketing proposals.

Demonstrate knowledge of effective communication strategies between the public sector and media.

Working knowledge of electronic media such as computers, photography and video.

Knowledge of formulation, interpretation and application of government policies aimed at effective delivery.

Knowledge of the National Development Plan (NDP) and Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS).

Knowledge and understanding of the Public Service regulatory framework, e.

g.

, Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Public Service Act, PFMA, Treasury Regulations, Public Service Regulations, Labour Relations Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Skills Development Act, Service Delivery Frameworks (Batho Pele Principles).

Skills: Strategic leadership and management, Communication skills (verbal and written), Presentation and public speaking skills, Media engagement and negotiation skills, Analytical thinking and problem-solving, Research and information analysis, Stakeholder management and networking, Interpersonal relations and diplomacy, Financial and project management, Report writing and presentation skills, Conflict management and decision-making, Planning, organizing, and time management, Computer literacy and digital communication skills, Content development and editing skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, Excellent leadership skills, Ability to interpret and apply policy, Presentation skills, Negotiation skills, Assertiveness skills, Coaching and mentoring skills, good planning and organizational skills, Well-developed analytical and research Skills.

The successful candidate must demonstrate integrity and ethical conduct with a strong commitment to ethical principles and professional standards.

Job Duties

Manage Internal and External Communications.

Manage Marketing and Communication Campaigns.

Manage Stakeholder and Community Liaison.

Ensure the development and implementation of policies.

Ensure effective management of the resources of the office of the Directorate.

Salary

R1 317 384 - R1 551 807 per annum (Level 13), (all-inclusive salary package to be structured under the rules of SMS)

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: Mr BS Ntuli at 060 569 2315