Government Job Opportunity: Assistant Director – People Policy

Career Opportunity: Assistant Director – People Policy (Western Cape Government)

The Department of the Premier within the Western Cape Government is looking for a highly skilled professional to join its team as an Assistant Director: People Policy. This permanent position offers an exciting opportunity to lead the development, implementation, and ongoing refinement of evidence-based HR policies that ensure compliance and support workforce optimization.

Job Overview

• Closing Date: March 24, 2025
• Reference Number: WCG241018-1
• Tracking Number: DOTP 23/2025
• Job Title: Assistant Director – People Policy
• Department: Department of the Premier
• Job Type: Permanent
• Location: Cape Town CBD, Western Cape, South Africa
• Enquiries: Ms. L Reutener – [email protected]

Role Purpose

The successful candidate will develop, implement, and maintain HR policies that are aligned with legislative requirements and strategic workforce needs. This role involves policy research, stakeholder engagement, governance oversight, and data-driven decision-making.

Minimum Requirements

• Educational Qualification:
  • A three-year B-Degree (or higher qualification) in Industrial Psychology, Labour Law, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • A minimum of five years’ experience in policy research, development, drafting, and implementation within large organizations or the public sector.
• Preferred Qualifications & Additional Requirements:
  • Strong labour law application, policy interpretation, and compliance expertise.
  • Proven ability to draft well-reasoned advisory notes and conduct in-depth policy analysis.
  • Proficiency in HR systems, business intelligence, and data visualization.
  • Experience in academic research or published work.
  • A valid Code B driver’s license.
  • Candidates with disabilities who have reasonable access to transport are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• HR Policy Development & Implementation:
  • Lead the design, drafting, and execution of HR policies that align with labour legislation and public service regulations.
  • Ensure policies are future-oriented, adaptable, and responsive to organizational needs.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Advisory Services:
  • Provide expert policy advice to senior leadership and key stakeholders.
  • Facilitate cross-departmental collaboration to ensure seamless implementation of policies.
• Governance, Compliance & Quality Assurance:
  • Ensure that all policies comply with legal and regulatory frameworks.
  • Conduct regular policy reviews and updates to maintain alignment with best practices.
• Data-Driven Decision-Making:
  • Utilize qualitative and quantitative research to guide policy development.
  • Anticipate workforce trends and adjust policies accordingly.
• Operational & Team Management:
  • Oversee daily operations, employee management, and budget planning for the policy division.
  • Provide mentorship and leadership to ensure a high-performance team environment.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Labour Law & Regulatory Knowledge:
  • Strong expertise in public service regulations, compliance, and governance principles.
• Research & Analytical Skills:
  • Ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research for evidence-based policy-making.
• Technical & Digital Proficiency:
  • Advanced skills in MS Office Suite, including Excel for data analysis.
  • Knowledge of HR information systems and business intelligence tools.
• Communication & Advisory Expertise:
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills for drafting reports and policy documents.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement and negotiation abilities.
• Strategic & Independent Thinking:
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Salary & Benefits

• Annual Salary: R444,036 – R532,602 (Salary Level 9)
• Additional Benefits:
  • Medical assistance
  • Housing assistance
  • Pension fund contributions
  • Other service benefits as per government employment regulations

Application Process & Important Notes

• Screening & Selection Process:
  • Shortlisted candidates must undergo criminal record checks, competency assessments, and practical evaluations.
  • Interviews will be scheduled at the discretion of the department.
• Reference Checks:
  • By applying, candidates consent to employment reference checks, including inquiries related to disciplinary records and previous employment history.
• Technical Support for Online Applications:
  • Available Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 16:00
  • Contact 0861 370 214 for assistance
• Application Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date, as late applications will not be considered.

This role is an excellent opportunity for professionals passionate about HR policy, governance, and data-driven workforce management. If you have the technical skills, legal expertise, and leadership experience needed to shape policy frameworks, apply today!