DIRECTOR: FORESTRY SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL SERVICES

Reference: FOM41/2026. Salary: R1 317 384 per annum, (all-inclusive salary package). Requirements: An undergraduate qualification in Forestry or relevant qualification (NQF7) within the related field as recognised by SAQA. A minimum of five (5) years’ experience at a middle/senior management level. Experience in Research and Forestry Management or related field. Successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-entry Programme as endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG) must be submitted prior to appointment. All shortlisted candidates, including SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments. One must be a practical exercise, and the other must be an Integrity (Ethical Conduct) Assessment. All shortlisted candidates for SMS posts will be subjected to a technical exercise and interview. Following the technical exercise and interview, a maximum of three (3) SMS candidates will undergo psychometric assessments to assess cognitive capabilities, behavioural preferences, emotional intelligence, and integrity. Extensive knowledge of the National Forestry Act, 84 of 1998 (NFA), the National Veld & Forestry Fire Act, 101 of 1998 (NVFFA) and the Management of State Forests Act, 128 of 1992. Understanding of law enforcement legislation and relevant regulations. Understanding and knowledge of spatial and non-spatial information systems. Knowledge and understanding of relevant national legislation and international agreements and commitments including their impact. Knowledge and understanding of international laws, agreements, and commitments pertaining to Forestry Management. Leadership Management. Programme and Project Management. Knowledge Management. People Management and Empowerment. Financial Management. Sound Research, Analytical, Organising, Planning, and Presentation skills. Interpersonal Skills. Computer literacy. Good communication skills (Verbal and written). Ability to work with difficult persons and to resolve conflict. Ability to work under pressure and long hours. Duties: Manage forestry research, development, and innovation in the sector. Ensure that the research function keeps up with the world trends. Manages the research function and funding. Manage the development of national norms and standards for sustainable forest management. Manage the development of principles, criteria, Indicators, and Standards for Sustainable Forest Management (SFM). Ensure provision of scientific forest management guidelines, best practices, and assistance to the Branch and broader forestry sector. Manage the provision of specialist technical advice and support to the Branch and other relevant stakeholders. Manage the provision of forestry subject inputs towards integrated environmental management. Facilitate and monitor the implementation, maintenance, and improvement of sustainable forestry management business processes. Provision of strategic forestry information and knowledge to support policy development and decision- making. Ensure compliance with the national and international forestry reporting requirements. Coordinate and manage spatial and non-spatial information gathering, processing, and analysis. Co-ordinate regional Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and processes for gathering data and mapping. Maintain a comprehensive GIS database for the region with maps and environmental data. Oversee the development of GIS reports, for further action. Government vacancy from Public Service Vacancy Circular 29 of 2026.