DPSA Circular vacancies
Department of Economic Development

Director: Smme & Cooperative Support

Salary or stipendR1 317 384 per annum (Level 13), all-inclusive package

The Department of Economic Development is looking for a Director: Smme & Cooperative Support. This is a permanent role based in Gauteng.

Umnotho House Johannesburg

Source: DPSA Circular 39 of 2026Post 39/281, page 211

Reference number
REFS/057143
Appointment
Permanent
Province
Gauteng
Job level
13
Centre
Umnotho House Johannesburg

What you will need

  • NQF Level 7 in Economics/Development Studies / Business Management / Public Administration / Public Management qualifications Nyukela Certificate for entry into SMS (Senior Management Service) from the National School of Government submitted prior to appointment.
  • Code 8/10.

Experience

A minimum of 5 years’ experience at middle/ senior management level in SMMEs and Co-operatives environment.

Key responsibilities

  • Develop the SMME development strategy for the GCR economy.
  • Lead and report on the implementation of the SMME development strategy across the province.
  • Align SMME and Co-operative policies with broader economic development strategies.
  • Champion the implementation of the Township Economic Development Act.
  • Identify priority sectors for targeted support and investment.
  • Develop incentive schemes to stimulate entrepreneurship and co- operative formation.
  • Integrate policies with local economic development (LED) initiatives.
  • Foster linkages between SMMEs, Co-operatives, and value chains.
  • Measure economic impact through job creation, income generation, and productivity.
  • Use data analytics to refine strategies and scale successful interventions.
  • Conduct needs assessment to identify the specific non-financial support services required by SMMEs and Co-operatives.
  • Develop strategic partnerships with government agencies, private sector entities, and non-profit services for SMMEs and Co-operatives organisations to deliver a diverse range of support services.
  • Create a centralised platform that provides easy access to information and resources related to non-financial support services.
  • Implement targeted training programmes and workshops focusing on business management, marketing, legal compliance, and other relevant areas.
  • Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system to assess the impact of support services and refine them based on feedback and performance data.
  • Launch outreach and awareness campaigns using multiple communication channels to ensure SMMEs and Co-operatives are informed about available support services.
  • Leverage government grants, private sector investment, and donor funding to ensure sustainable financial support for incubators.
  • Engage industry professionals and successful entrepreneurs to mentor and advise incubated SMMEs and Co-operatives.
  • Offer targeted training, workshops, and seminars on business planning, marketing, compliance, and financial literacy.
  • Track performance and growth of incubated enterprises to tailor support and improve incubator effectiveness.
  • Facilitate networks among incubators to exchange best practices, share resources, and replicate successful models.
  • Lead 212 outreach programmes to identify and support emerging community enterprises.
  • Provide localised training tailored to rural and underserved areas.
  • Establish community enterprise hubs for shared resources and collaboration.
  • Promote youth and women participation in enterprise development.
  • Facilitate partnerships with local municipalities and development agencies.
  • Support community-led sustainability initiatives.
  • Track social impact metrics to guide future interventions.
  • Strengthen evidence-based decision-making and innovation.
  • Partner with universities and think tanks to conduct sector studies, impact assessments, and policy research.
  • Create platforms for SMMEs and Co-operatives to connect with investors, suppliers, and customers.
  • Use surveys, interviews, or focus groups to understand stakeholder needs and improve engagement strategies.
  • Partner with government departments, NGOs, and private sector entities to pool resources and align efforts.
  • Perform strategic and operational planning.
  • Oversee the administrative support functions.
  • Perform people management functions.
  • Perform financial management functions.
  • Perform asset management functions.

Additional details

  • Grade: Provincial

How to apply

  • Enquiries: Siphiwe Nhlapho/Lebohang Molefe at 066 196 6890/079 803 5373
  • Telephone: 066 196 6890, 079 803 5373

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