Assistant Director: Traditional Institutional Management (Customary Initiation)

About the role

The Department of Co-Operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Gauteng) is hiring an Assistant Director: Traditional Institutional Management (Customary Initiation) in Traditional Institutional Management, based in Johannesburg. This is a permanent post, paying R487,197 a year. How to apply: Applications should be submitted strictly online at https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za/Public/Jobs.aspx For attention: Human Capital management Reference number to quote: REFS/057052 Closing date: 09 November 2026 Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV.

Responsibilities

• The incumbent will be expected to coordinate and support the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC): Develop and annually review Terms of Reference, coordinate stakeholder identification and appointment, facilitate quarterly meetings, minute proceedings, track resolutions, develop annual implementation plans, facilitate induction and training of PICC members.
• Provide administrative support to the PICC: Develop systems for processing applications received, approved, and rejected, communicate PICC decisions to applicants, prepare seasonal provincial statistical reports, manage fatalities emanating from initiation schools in line with legislative prescripts.
• Develop provincial policy and legislation on customary initiation: Draft provincial policy, consult stakeholders, coordinate legislative processes for province-specific legislation, facilitate EXCO approval and State Law Advisor pre-certification, ensure referral of the Bill to the Gauteng Provincial Legislature.
• Facilitate training, awareness, and stakeholder support: Develop concept documents for training and awareness programmes, coordinate annual training for PICC, Provincial Initiation Monitoring Teams, traditional surgeons, and principals, conduct community awareness programmes, coordinate printed communication materials (pamphlets, posters), facilitate media statements, press briefings and interviews before and after initiation seasons.

Requirements

• Matric plus NQF level 6/National Diploma in Development Studies or a relevant SAQA-recognised qualification.
• At least 3–5 years’ experience working with the institution of Traditional and Khoi San leadership and/or within the customary initiation environment.
• A Certificate of Competency, issued by a recognised Senior Traditional Leader, as a male or female initiate, will be an added advantage.
• Competency:
• Knowledge of the Customary Initiation Act
• No. 2 of 2021
• Policy guidelines and legislative processes
• The institution of Traditional Leadership
• Customary initiation practices and the PFMA and Public Service regulatory frameworks
• Skills and Competencies:
• Excellent communication and report writing
• Conflict handling and interpersonal skills
• Organising and time management
• Problem solving and project management
• Computer literacy and stakeholder coordination and facilitation
• A valid driver’s licence and South African citizenship are compulsory