Chief Director: Research, Analysis and Knowledge Services at Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)

Requirements: 

• An appropriate Bachelor’s Degree (NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA) in Communication Sciences/ Journalism/ Media Studies/ Public Relations or An appropriate Bachelor’s Degree (NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA) in Communication Sciences/ Journalism/ Media Studies/ Public Relations plus a Certificate in research sciences OR An appropriate Bachelor’s Degree (NQF level 8 as recognised by SAQA in as Social Sciences/ Behavioural Sciences/ Political Sciences or related and equivalent qualification plus a Certificate in communication/ Journalism/ Public Relations/ Media Studies.
• Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience at Senior Management Service level experience in the integrated and optimal use of research on trends in media and perceptions for Cabinet, departments and clusters. Strong Financial and Human Resource Management skills. In-depth knowledge of policy formulation, implementation and monitoring. Extensive experience in research, monitoring and evaluation in communication sector will be an added advantage.
• Process Competencies: Knowledge Management, Service Delivery Innovation, Problem Solving and Analysis, Client Orientation and Customer Focus, Communication.

Competencies:

• Strategic leadership and capability; Financial management; Risk management; Corporate governance; Extensive knowledge of the Government Communication Policy; the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996; the Public Service Act of 1994 and Regulations; Public Administration Management Act of 2014; the Public Finance Management Act of 1999; and other relevant prescripts applicable in the communication sector, in the Public Service and for the entities reporting to the GCIS. Must have a valid driver’s license.

Duties: 

• Reporting to the Deputy Director-General: Content Processing and Dissemination the Chief Director will be responsible for Conducting research through independent service providers to assess how government should address the public’s information needs.
• Provide research input to the government communication strategy. Leading the integration of research and trends in media and opinion.
• Promoting improvements in government communication through the effective use of research. Enhancing reports from Government Communication Monitoring and Evaluation to establish routine and achieve buy-in from GCIS and external clients.
• Monitoring media coverage of issues affecting government and the country. Monitor and evaluate communication in government and assesses public perceptions in relation to government performance. Manage key messages, current affairs and communication strategies.
• Provide an analysis on how the media interprets government policies and programmes. Restructure the Information Centre for more effective knowledge management. Guide content and approve key messages, current affairs and communication content. Edit and approve draft current affairs.
• Manage the change towards integration and restructuring within the Chief Directorate to produce better quality work on time and relevant to the client. Inform decision making and proactive communication through regular, integrated and optimal use of research on trends in media and perceptions for Cabinet, departments, clusters, Manco and internal clients.