Deputy Director: Cluster Programme Support REF NO: DD CPS at Department of Small Business Development

REQUIREMENTS :

• A Bachelor’s Degree (NQF level 7) in Economics / Entrepreneurship / Development Studies or Business Management or equivalent / related as recognised by SAQA. 3 years’ technical experience within the value chain analysis and clusters environment at a supervisory level / managerial (ASD) level.
• Have proven competencies and skills in: Communication (verbal and written), Programme and Project Management, Financial Management, Service Delivery Innovation Client orientation and customer focus, Problem solving and analysis and Service Delivery Innovation.
• Skills in research and industry analysis. Knowledge of industrialisation and localisation, Thorough understanding of industrial clusters (for example, the importance of getting stakeholders to work together using the triple-helix approach) and Knowledge of Programme Management will be an added advantage. B/EB Driver’s license and Security Clearance of Secret will be considered as additional. 

DUTIES :

• Provide support for the development of clusters for each product or industry as identified in the localisation framework or any other government strategy promoting industrialisation and localisation. Monitor that non-financial and financial support as well as market linkages and other types of support are provided to the cluster member. Mobilise funding and appointment of the cluster manager.
• Develop and implement cluster models, frameworks and support mechanisms to enhance productivity, innovation and competitiveness. Monitor, evaluate and report on cluster programme performance against APP targets and strategic objectives. Promote localisation by strengthening local production capabilities and supplier development within clusters.
• Conduct sub-sector and value chain analyses to identify high-impact cluster opportunities aligned with national priorities, while assessing industry value chains to determine MSME entry points and meaningful participation through access to procurement opportunities. Provide secretariat services to the Technical and Adjudication Committees.
• Communicate with stakeholders and provide regular feedback in respect of programme implementation progress: Written draft general (basic to complex) correspondence such as response letters, emails, status reports, presentations, memos, and submissions. Verbal: Give detailed/comprehensive/ in depth advice on procedural and technical related matters in respect of cluster programme support.
• Facilitate partnerships with government, private sector and agencies to support cluster growth and sustainability. Provide technical guidance, advisory support and capacity building to cluster participants. Ensure effective stakeholder engagement, communication and coordination across programmes. Manage the operations and resources of the sub-Directorate in line with the relevant prescripts.