Personal Assistant Vacancy at the Western Cape (x1 post)

The Western Cape Government’s Department of Agriculture is inviting applications for a Personal Assistant: Financial Management position based in Elsenburg, Stellenbosch. This permanent position offers an excellent opportunity for qualified individuals to contribute to the strategic and day-to-day operations of the Director’s office. If you have the required qualifications and experience, this role could be the ideal fit for you.

Personal Assistant Job Overview

• Position Title: Personal Assistant: Financial Management
• Reference Number: AGR 61/2024
• Tracking Number: WCG241127-9
• Location: Elsenburg, Stellenbosch, Western Cape
• Job Type: Permanent
• Salary: R308,154 per annum (Salary level 7)
• Closing Date: 27 January 2025
• Contact for Enquiries:
  Mr. Clint Starling
  Phone: (021) 808 5161
  Email: Clint.Starling@westerncape.gov.za

Purpose of the Personal Assistant Job

The Personal Assistant will support the Office of the Director: Financial Management in both strategic and daily tasks. This includes rendering secretarial support, managing the Director’s schedule, and handling administrative responsibilities under tight deadlines. Candidates must be willing to work irregular hours when necessary and thrive under pressure.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Qualifications:
   • Grade 12 (Senior Certificate) or equivalent qualification.
   • An accredited secretarial diploma and/or administrative qualification at NQF Level 5 (or higher).
   • Higher tertiary qualifications are advantageous.
2. Experience:
   • A minimum of three years providing support services to a senior manager.
3. Other Requirements:
   • A valid Code B or higher driver’s licence.
   • For persons with disabilities, reasonable transport access will be considered.
   • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications.

Recommendations

Candidates with the following additional qualifications or traits are highly recommended:

• A strong willingness to work outside regular hours when required.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and decision-making skills.
• A proven ability to manage diverse stakeholders efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

1. Secretarial and Reception Support:
   • Managing calls, emails, and correspondence.
   • Scheduling appointments and coordinating meetings.
2. Administrative Duties:
   • Filing, record-keeping, and managing departmental documentation.
   • Preparing agendas and taking minutes for meetings.
3. Budget Administration Support:
   • Assisting in financial documentation and budget management.
   • Monitoring and processing payment requisitions as needed.
4. Policy and Prescript Application:
   • Ensuring adherence to Public Service and departmental prescripts.
   • Guiding team members on best practices in compliance.

Required Competencies

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Knowledge of public sector regulations, financial management principles, and human resource management processes.
• Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal abilities for liaising with a diverse range of people.
  • Effective written and verbal communication.
  • Advanced computer literacy, especially in Microsoft Office tools.
  • Organizational and time-management capabilities.

Tip: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Government Jobs in South Africa

Why Apply for This Role?

This position provides a unique opportunity to work closely with senior management in a dynamic governmental department. It is perfect for candidates seeking career growth in administration and financial management within the public sector.

Remuneration and Benefits

The position offers a salary of R308,154 per annum at Salary Level 7. Additional benefits such as medical assistance, housing subsidies, and pension contributions are provided as per applicable policies.

Recommended for you: From Personal Details to References: Building a Professional CV in 7 Easy Steps

How to Apply

Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date of 27 January 2025. Late applications will not be considered. By applying, you consent to employment reference checks, including disciplinary records.

Click here to apply

Important Notes for Applicants

• Verification Process: Shortlisted candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process, including:
  • Criminal record vetting.
  • Document verification.
  • Practical assessments and competency tests.
• Application Assistance:
  For technical support with online applications, contact 086 137 0214 during office hours (08:00–16:00).
  For position-related queries, contact Mr. Clint Starling.
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EE): The selection process will align with the employment equity targets of the department.

Read more: Top Certifications to Boost Your CV in 2025

The Personal Assistant: Financial Management (Ref No. AGR 61/2024) position at the Western Cape Government offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the Department of Agriculture. With competitive remuneration, career growth potential, and the chance to work in a supportive and professional environment, this role is ideal for organized and proactive individuals with the required qualifications and experience.