Have you ever dreamed of working at the highest level of government? Right now, an incredible opportunity has opened up for qualified and passionate individuals: The Presidency Vacancies are available for 2025! If you are ready to shape the future of South Africa and work alongside the nation’s top leaders, keep reading — your next career move could be just a few steps away!
About the Presidency Vacancies
- Job Title: Head of Policy and Research Services
- Reference Number: PRS/PRES/2025
- Salary: R1 741 770 per annum (All-inclusive senior package)
- Location: Union Buildings, Pretoria
- Closing Date: 13 May 2025
Main Responsibilities
If selected for this position, your job will be crucial for shaping public policies and ensuring they are informed by evidence and research. Your tasks will include:
1. Policy Advice and Support
You will provide expert policy advice to the President, Deputy President, and their teams. Your work will help guide the country’s strategies and decision-making at the very highest level.
2. Government Policy Coordination
You’ll be coordinating activities within the Cabinet system and the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD) to ensure that policies and programs across different government departments are aligned.
3. Research Collaboration
You will work closely with:
- Senior government officials,
- Research institutions,
- Think tanks.
Your role will involve identifying research gaps and analyzing outcomes that influence national policies. You will recommend interventions that address key issues facing South Africa.
4. Technical Support
You will offer technical advice to various high-level government structures chaired by the President and Deputy President, helping to ensure sound decision-making.
5. Socio-Economic Impact Assessment
You will assess how proposed or existing policies affect the economy, society, and governance — ensuring that policies are sustainable and in the public’s best interest.
Requirements
Before you apply for this important role, make sure you meet the following minimum requirements:
Educational Qualifications
- Senior Certificate (Matric)
- Postgraduate Degree (or equivalent qualification) at NQF Level 8 as recognized by SAQA.
Work Experience
- At least 8 years of senior managerial experience in government, academia, research institutions, or the private sector.
Competencies Needed
You must demonstrate the following:
- Excellent Communication Skills: (Oral and written)
- Problem-Solving and Analysis: (Finding solutions to complex issues)
- Client Orientation and Customer Focus: (Serving the public with excellence)
- Service Delivery Innovation: (Bringing new ideas to improve government services)
- Knowledge Management: (Collecting and using knowledge effectively)
- Financial Management: (Handling budgets and government funds responsibly)
- Strategic Leadership: (Guiding teams towards achieving big-picture goals)
- Stakeholder Management: (Working well with others)
- People Empowerment: (Leading, mentoring, and developing staff)
- Change Management: (Helping organizations adapt to new realities)
Knowledge Base
You must have strong knowledge of:
- The Public Service Regulatory Framework,
- Government policies and strategies,
- Research methodologies,
- Monitoring and evaluation tools,
- Assessment and review techniques.
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How to Apply
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Submit only two documents:
- A Completed and Signed Z83 Form (Available at public service departments or online: DPSA Z83 Form).
- A Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Step 2: Submit Your Application
You can apply by:
- Post:
The Presidency, Private Bag x1000, Pretoria, 0001 - Hand Delivery:
Government Avenue, Union Buildings, Pretoria - Email:
applications@presidency.gov.za
(Subject line must only contain PRS/PRES/2025, no spaces.)
Important:
Only shortlisted candidates will be asked later to submit certified copies of:
- Identity Document
- Grade 12 Certificate
- Highest qualification(s)
- Driver’s license (if required)
Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA.
Special Notes to Applicants
- No Late Applications: Applications must be submitted before the closing date of 13 May 2025.
- Automatic Acknowledgment: You’ll receive an auto-response email acknowledging receipt.
- No Feedback Means Unsuccessful: If you don’t hear back within 3 months after the closing date, your application was not successful.
- Background Checks: Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, including reviewing social media profiles.
- Honesty is Critical: You must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary, or other investigations.
- Security Clearance: Successful candidates must pass Top Secret security checks.
- SMS Pre-entry Course: Shortlisted SMS candidates must complete the NSG SMS Pre-entry Programme.
- Financial Disclosure: Successful candidates must disclose their financial interests.
The opportunity to work at The Presidency is more than just a career move — it is a commitment to serve your country at the highest level with integrity, innovation, and passion. As a Head of Policy and Research Services, you will have the unique chance to shape national policies, influence government decisions, and contribute to South Africa’s growth and transformation.
