Ethekwini Municipality is Seeking a Deputy Head for Pollution Control & Risk Management

Ethekwini Municipality is offering a permanent, full-time position for a Deputy Head of Pollution Control & Risk Management within the Health Department. The position, located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, offers an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader passionate about environmental health and pollution control. The closing date for applications is February 21, 2025.

Job Purpose: The Deputy Head will be responsible for the strategic planning, development, implementation, and monitoring of policies, projects, and programs related to Pollution Control and Risk Management. The role involves coordinating efforts to ensure effective pollution control, waste management, food safety management, and occupational health and safety systems, all while supporting broader environmental objectives in line with national and international standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the coordination and provision of specialized services in pollution control, food safety management, and quality assurance.
• Lead the preparation of business plans for securing funding from provincial, national, and international governments.
• Review, draft, and comment on relevant legislation and bylaws affecting pollution control and health.
• Engage regularly with communities, non-governmental organizations, and industries to foster collaborative partnerships.
• Formulate and drive the strategic direction of the Pollution Control and Risk Management section.
• Implement and maintain effective occupational health and safety systems within the department.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant regulations and codes concerning pollution control.
• Manage personnel functions and coordinate staff training programs.
• Oversee the financial management of the section, ensuring resource allocation is aligned with strategic goals.
• Promote integrated pollution control and waste management in line with the National White Paper on Pollution Control.
• Facilitate collaboration with multiple stakeholders to achieve best practices in pollution control and environmental health.

Core Competencies: To succeed in this position, the following competencies are essential:

• Strong organizational awareness and the ability to manage and allocate resources effectively.
• Advanced financial management skills to oversee the budget for the section.
• Excellent planning and organizational capabilities to implement long-term strategies.
• Conceptual thinking, enabling the formulation of new ideas and solutions for complex issues.
• Strategic development and implementation skills to guide the department’s future direction.
• In-depth knowledge of environmental pollution control and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills for both internal and external stakeholders.
• A service delivery orientation to ensure the department’s goals are met effectively.
• Strong action and outcome orientation to drive results in challenging environments.
• Ability to influence and set direction for the team and stakeholders.

Essential Requirements: The ideal candidate must meet the following essential qualifications and experience:

• A Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) in Environmental Science, Environmental Health, Environmental Management, or a related field.
• A Peace Officer certificate (or the ability to obtain it within six months of appointment).
• Certified Environmental Management Inspector.
• Registered with a relevant professional body.
• A valid motor vehicle driving license.
• At least 9 years of relevant experience at a management level, with a minimum of 4 years at Senior Management level.
• Proficiency in computer literacy.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in strategic leadership within the environmental health or pollution control sectors.
• Expertise in managing complex programs with multi-stakeholder collaboration.

Benefits:

• Housing Subsidy
• Annual Leave
• Medical Aid
• Locomotion Allowances
• Pension Fund
• Negotiable Remuneration
• 13th Cheque

How to Apply: For more information about this exciting opportunity, candidates are encouraged to contact Human Capital at 031 311 3630 or 031 322 8725. This is a great opportunity for an experienced leader in environmental health and pollution control to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic public service role.

Please Note: The Deputy Head will report directly to the Head of Health and will play a pivotal role in enhancing the municipality’s commitment to environmental sustainability, public health, and safety.