Job Vacancies at The Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA)

Key outputs: 
Business Strategy Leadership and Governance of ICT: 

• To participate in developing the USAASA and USAF Strategy through providing technology input for the USAASA and USAF strategic planning processes 
• To define and develop digital transformation of USAASA and USAF as well as the objectives and goals in line with the business strategies of USAASA and USAF 
• To develop the technology business plans and 
• Annual Performance Plans (APP) that are aligned to the USAASA and USAF strategy and mandate and submitting the relevant input documentation required for the final approved plan. 
• Research and implement the latest technological innovation like IoT, Big Data, Cyber Security and AI among many to ensure USAASA becomes the leading edge organisation in closing the digital divide using emerging technologies in underserviced areas 
• To develop and implement IT Policies, processes and procedures required for the proper functioning of IT in order to protect USAASA and USAF information 
• To establish and sustain the IT Steering Committee to ensure that governance of ICT is aligned to King IV and to ensure that IT investments decisions are aligned to business needs and requirements 
• To communicate relevant APP and business plans with relevant employees through formal and informal information discussions and presentations annually and on an ongoing basis 
• Manage resources allocated to ICT to deliver the departmental objectives through defining required deliverables, standards and deadlines, allocating resources and communicating to staff annually and on an ongoing basis 
• Manage IT risks by identifying risks, developing a risk register, introducing mitigating strategies 
• Resolve challenges hindering or threatening the successful achievement of the departmental objectives through identifying the challenges, diagnosing the issues, addressing the issues 
• To ensure that cost effective ICT solutions are introduced to enable efficiency and effectiveness in the running of USAASA and USAF business
•  To ensure contracts and Service Level agreements (SLA’s) are developed, agreed upon, signed with all ICT Service Providers and to manage such contracts and SLA’s
•  Develop, manage and maintain the IT disaster management plan by defining disaster management practices, managing the implementation of these practices and reviewing the plan in line with needs of the business and good practices annually 
• To ensure that all legislative and compliance requirements are complied with and delivered to standard through ensuring that all annual reporting is completed according to defined standards on time 
• Manage the IT department performance by ensuring that all performance is aligned with the APP and Strategy and departmental objectives are delivered by the defined deadlines.  

Information Security Management: 

• Drive the implementation, support and maintenance of secure ICT hardware such as servers, firewalls, routers, and switches to ensure storage and communication of USAASA and USAF data and information to run the business on an ongoing basis 
• To implement and maintain ICT security systems and structures such as antivirus, monitoring, audit trailing and support tools to ensure secure data and information transfer and storage at all times 
• To implement and support CCTV and access control systems to ensure that USAASA assets are protected at times 
• To implement backup and disaster recovery systems in line with business strategies and policies by developing plans, allocating resources and tracking delivery on an ongoing basis 
• Implement corrective action to address identified systems security risks by identifying, developing an action plan and implementing by the agreed deadline 
•  Ensure that all systems security requirements are up to date and deliver required levels of performance (including but not limited to Virus protections systems, firewall etc.) by developing tracking and monitoring tools and managing utilisation of these and addressing non-compliance on an ongoing basis 
• Ensure that all software is licensed and up to date in order to achieve adequate security levels at all times by conducting audits and addressing issues within SLA  

Internal Business Process Management and Business Systems Support: 

• To ensure that USAASA business processes are reengineered and automated according to business appetite by engaging with business, developing amended and updated processes in line with business needs and implementing within agreed project deadlines 
• To manage the implementation and support of the defined institutionalised ERP system to automate USAASA / USAF business processes and integrate with other state entities to enable the implementation of defined USAASA/ USAF strategy by defined deadlines 
• To manage implementation, support and maintenance of the business systems including but not limited to Wide Area Network, Internet, Intranet, Telephone system, 3G APN, e-mail system, printing and Wi-Fi; that promote seamless communication to run the business of USAASA and USAF daily 
• Ensure that all internal IT systems are implemented according to defined and approved standards and methodologies such as the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and Project management principles within approved deadlines 

Manage correction of errors and development of system enhancements through: 

• Scoping the developing consequences with the service provider 
• Procuring development costs for error correction 
• Preparing and presenting motivations for error correction development costs 
• Contracting service providers for development to address errors and 
• Manage service provider delivery against development programme, specification and contract 
• Test enhancements 
• Coordinate user testing of enhancements and ensure appropriate signoff prior to implementation 
• Manage implementation 

External Business Process Management and Business Systems Support: 

• To manage the implementation, support and maintenance of all operational systems (including but not limited to ArcGIS, Rapid Deployment Connectivity etc.) to facilitate and enable the core business to properly plan and execute the implementation and rollout of Operational objectives on the Master Plan on an ongoing basis and by defined deadlines 
• Ensure that all external IT systems are implemented according to defined and approved standards and methodologies such as the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and Project management principles within approved deadlines  

Reporting:

• Develop and update reporting calendar for all areas of IT across the organisation monthly, quarterly and annually 
• Ensure that IT security, internal and external systems and IT projects and progress are reported on by gathering data, collating, making recommendations and findings and complying with reporting standards monthly, quarterly and annually 
•  Ensure that reporting tools that enable the accurate and automated pulling of reports that are required on a regular basis are built according to standard and within deadlines 
• Ensure that existing reports are reviewed for accuracy and consistency by conducting audits, evaluating reporting inputs and data monthly and managing maintenance as required 

Ensure that new reports or reporting tools are developed by managing that the following are being completed within the IT team: 

• Reviewing business reporting requirements, 
• Sourcing and analysing data from the system 
• Building reporting tools / reports or outsourcing for development by appointed service providers 
• Testing new reports / tools for accuracy, completeness and consistency and 
• Compiling and distributing reports as required 

Service Provider Management: 

• Develop list of approved and appropriate service providers to address systems needs annually and update monthly 
• Manage the selection and appointment of service providers for contractual support needs by checking compliance with the procurement procedure, tracking quality of service provider performance and addressing non-performance in line with the contract and service provider management policy as and when required 
• Develop and implement agreed service level agreements and contracts with Service Providers by following the relevant policies and procedures as and when required 
• Manage compliance with SLA’s and contracts by implementing Service Provider SLA monitoring tools and guidelines and measuring monthly 
• Receive invoices, check for accuracy against work / project plan completion and budget, approve or amend and submit for payment within SLA 
• Make recommendations on changing or maintaining of contracts by reporting on Service Provider performance and making recommendations annually or when contracts are up for renewal 
• Manage the service provider relationship optimally by establishing successful communication parameters, defining performance expectations and addressing non-performance proactively and in a constructive yet delivery focussed manner as and when required.  

Staff Management: 

• To build capacity within the team through developing skills and competencies, addressing development needs and providing coaching and mentoring support on an ongoing basis and in monthly individual performance discussions 
• To monitor, evaluate and manage the team performance through implementing the IT policies, implementing performance process and, when required, instituting compliant disciplinary action within the approved SLA and on an ongoing basis 
• To recruit quality team members to support the team and organisation and the achievement of its objectives and strategy through defining the role requirements, identifying critical competencies, testing for these competencies and appointing within the HR and EE policy guidelines as and when required 
• To build a cohesive, high performing team through motivating, guiding, coaching, mentoring and leading in a fair and consistent manner to deliver on the organisational performance and strategic requirements
•  Ensure the development and management of employees within the business unit 
•  Implement and maintain a relevant management approach to support effective business unit
•  Develop and sustain a culture of high performance, professionalism and integrity to support the overall quality of service delivery 
•  Ensure the control of budgeting and expenditure processes in line with strategic objectives and relevant legislation.
•  Ensure the effective utilization of all other resources (including information security, Assets, infrastructure, etc.) within business unit.
•  Ensure employment equity compliance 
•  Facilitate staff productivity and efficiency minimizing absenteeism and turnover figures. 

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Matric, bachelor’s degree or national diploma in Computer Science, Information Systems or Information Technology (NQF Level 7) as recognised by SAQA, or equivalent 
• System Development specialisation and IT Best Practice certificates in COBiT, ITIL, industry certification like in Project Management (PMBOK, PRINCE2 and IT Governance Cobit are preferred and an added advantage. 

Experience: (including relevant sector specific experience) 

• Minimum 5 to 7 years’ experience working in IT 
• Minimum 5 to 7 years IT Management experience engaging with users at all levels 
• 5 to 7 years internal and external IT system implementation and maintenance management experience is preferred 
• 3 years’ public sector experience is required. Experience in leading business transformation using digital technologies to improve customer experience. 

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Key outputs: 

• Develop, implement & maintain an integrated Governance, Risk and compliance service to increase the effectiveness of the Risk value chain
• Identify, evaluate, mitigate and monitor risks in terms of the framework
• Review financing strategies and provide advice on risks and governance issues
• Develop and manage the organisation risk register
• Undertake risk assessments to determine the Agency’s current exposure
• Evaluate the macro impact of risks arising from external environment and legislationEstablish an internal control framework for risk management
• Conduct performance monitoring & Compile departmental risk management reports 
• Review financing strategies & provide advice on risk and governance issues
• Implement and monitoring of governance systems and procedures 
• Liaise with Managers to develop & implement action plans for business units to manage operational risk effectively 
• Deliver monthly status reports
• Ensuring a consistent and transparent governance environment throughout the Agency
• Ensuring compliance with PFMA, thereby ensuring high standards of public accountability. 

Requirements:

• Degree or National Diploma at NQF level 7 in BCom qualification, Business Administration (Finance), Auditing. 
• Certificates or Post Graduate Diploma or Degree in Risk Management or related field will be an added advantage. 
• Registration with industry bodies will be an added advantage. 
• Minimum 3 - 6 years’ experience in Risk Management environment. 

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Key output: 

• Network Design, update and maintain the Agency’s IT Architecture (LANs, WANs, and wireless networks, including servers, routers, hubs, switches and other hardware); Integrate VOIP systems on the Agency network; Design and implement Server infrastructure; Monitors the server on a 24 hours basis; Make recommendation to management on the state of the ICT infrastructure; Lead network infrastructure projects and sub-projects in accordance with IT and project management frameworks and guidelines; Monitor and test network performance and provide network performance statistics and reports; Practice network asset management, including maintenance of network component inventory and related documentation and technical specifications information; Create and maintain documentation as it relates to network configuration, network mapping, processes, and service records; Practice network asset management, including maintenance of network component inventory and related documentation and technical specifications information; Provide 3rd line support.  

Systems Administration 

• Configuration and support of the Agency’s website and Intranet; Configuration of SharePoint system; and Maintenance, creation of users and management of Exchange 2010 and AD.  

Governance, Security and Planning 

• Assist in drafting of Standards, Policies to govern the IT function Involved in evaluation, planning, PoC, testing and implementation of various security related products such as representative on Microsoft Patch Council and role in patch management, approval, testing and distribution; Documentation of technical specifications and DR requirements; Ensure a project management approach to all activities is maintained; Provide technical assistance in the selection, configuration and maintenance of anti-virus, anti-spy ware, patch management and host-based protection of servers, workstations and network devices; Installation, configuration and support on anti-virus, software to protect the Agency’s data and systems; Plan design, implementation and support of new Technologies; Problem management; Backups of data and systems according to the approved Backup Policies and Procedures; Change management; Monitoring of events and alerts, as well as escalation and investigation around them; Perform root-cause analysis for all IT incidents and record on the Service Desk system; Develop, implement and maintain policies, procedures, and associated training plans for network administration, usage, and disaster recovery; Implement monitoring and improvement activities to ensure compliance with both internal security policies and applicable laws and regulations; Implement adequate IT security controls, processes and systems to ensure effective detection and management of IT security risks; Assume overall responsibility for setting policies, standards, procedures and guidelines to ensure the protection of the organization’s information technology assets such as data, information, software, and hardware; Conduct research on network products, services, protocols, and standards to remain abreast of developments in the security industry.  

Project Management 

• Delivery according to agreed project scope of work; Maintain high standard of project implementation; Follow up on users after projects were implemented; and ensure all assigned projects are completed within the Project SLA  

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies Required 

The incumbent must have the following competencies: 

• Experience with the following technologies: Thorough knowledge of Microsoft technologies, Windows Server 2008 or higher (design, Installation, configuration and admin), Active Directory and Exchange Server 2010 (design, Installation, configuration and admin), Disaster Recovery planning, implementation and testing, SharePoint, (Design, Installation, configuration and admin), Routers, Switches, (Design, Installation, configuration and admin), ISA/Forefront Firewalls, wireless technology, Thorough knowledge of VMware virtualization technology is essential, TCP/IP, DNS, DNS, WSUS and DHCP configuration, Knowledge of SAN devices (design, Installation, configuration and administration), Backup technologies, A good working knowledge of network vulnerability assessment and remediation, A good working knowledge of encryption mechanisms, Knowledge of Blade Server technologies; Must be able to stay abreast with latest ICT technologies and advice ICT and USAASA Management; Team player; Oral and written communication; Must be able to stay abreast of the latest IT technology; Knowledge of COBIT governance, ITIL service management, Project Management, SDLC, and Enterprise Architecture frameworks essential; Knowledge of Information Security Management and Risk Management; Code B driver’s license; and Willingness to work abnormal hours, including weekends and public holidays. 

Requirements:

• Matric
• National Diploma or Degree in IT (NQF level 7) 
• Specialization in Network Engineering or Computer Networking or Computer Software or computer Systems Engineering, enterprise architecture and IT Infrastructure management. 
• CompTIA A+ 
• A+, N+, and MCSE 2008 with AD 2008 and Exchange Server 2007 or higher 
• CCNA, CNE or IT related diploma will be advantageous 
• ITIL V3 and Cobit Essentials 
• Minimum of 4 to 7 years ICT experience, whereby at least 4 years is in the similar role. 

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Minimum Requirements:  

Relevant Qualifications 

• A National Diploma or Degree in Finance / Procurement Management / Supply Chain Management at NQF level 7. 
• Postgraduate qualification(s) will be added advantage. 

Relevant Experience 

• At least 5 years public sector SCM/procurement experience with 3 years in a similar senior management position as well as a strong experience in the implementation of the PPPFA, PFMA, Treasury Regulations, and B-BBEE Act requirements in line with Procurement compliance. 

Relevant Knowledge 

• Extensive knowledge of Supply Chain Management in public entities. 
• Proven track record of experience in the drafting, management, understanding and interpretation of procurement related best practices, prescripts, systems and processes, contracts, orders, and appointment letters. 
• Extensive knowledge of dealing with Treasury Regulations, contracts and contract management, PFMA, PPPFA and B-BBEE. 
• Extensive knowledge in analysing and interpreting relevant laws and regulations that governs SCM and procurement systems and processes. 
• Extensive knowledge of contract management, PFMA, National treasury requirements. 
• Sound knowledge of SAP ERP and/or similar procurement systems. 

Relevant Skills

• Quick learner with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, maintain focus and adapt to a variety of challenges. 
• Project management, problem-solving, analytical thinking, decision-making, and strategic leadership trades. 
• Ability to work independently or within a team, work efficiently under pressure, highly driven and energetic individual. 
• Organisation and administration skills with quick and innovative thinking. 
• Good communication and presentation skills (verbal and written). 
• Computer literate with extensive knowledge of MS 365 particularly excel, word, PowerPoint, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Teams. 
• Integrity and the ability to deal with confidential information. 
• Efficient with attention to detail. 
• Client service orientation. 

Key responsibilities: 

• Analysing and interpreting the organisational strategic plan to determine the future trends, strategic direction, financial and legal implications for the Supply Chain Management Unit. 
• Developing and reviewing procurement/SCM strategies, policies, procedures and practice notes in accordance with PFMA, Treasury Regulations and SCM Guidelines, to ensure efficient running of the procurement process. 
• Provide strategic leadership and direction to procurement administration and Supply Chain Management. 
• Ensuring compliance with National Treasury requirements, including inter alia PFMA, PPPFA, BBBEE, etc. 
• Ensuring strict compliance with the rules of procurement processes and supply chain management cycle, and compiling, maintaining and reporting on the level of compliance. 
• Daily management of incoming requests from end users ensuring timeous turn around. 
• Scrutinising terms of reference/specifications for compliance. 
• Checking completeness of documentation and compliance against Supply Chain Management principles & thresholds. 
• Requesting price quotations for goods, services and works required by client offices in accordance with approved TOR/Specifications. 
• Evaluating received quotations. 
• Enforcing compliance in terms of Supply Chain Management policies and prescripts. 
• Liaising with suppliers and managing internal and external customer/supplier relations. 
• Implementing effective document control and filing systems. 
• Compiling procurement reports and undertaking compliance monitoring checks. 
• Assisting in the identification and determination of irregular and fruitless and wasteful expenditure. 
• Developing and ensuring timely submission of procurement plans and related reports to the relevant structures and authorities. 
• Conducting regular monitoring and reporting on procurement plan, contract management, and compliance with laws and regulations. 
• Ensuring that the National Treasury approved databases (Central Supplier Database) are utilised effectively in the sourcing of quotations and that client expectations are met. 
• Providing support in maintaining effective systems and procedures for the procurement of goods and services. 
• Ensuring proper administration and record keeping of the supply chain management policies and processes, records and reports, as well as ensuring that all internal stakeholders understand and follow the required processes. 
• Compiling and reporting on all Supply Chain Management activities for internal and external stakeholders e.g. BBBEE spend, procurement compliance, contract spending etc. 
• Training staff on Supply Chain Management policies and procedures and enforcing adherence and compliance. 
• Performing evaluation of and reporting on service provider performance. 
• Identifying and implementing optimisation strategies for procurement. 
• Undertaking necessary administrative duties related to procurement activities and SCM committees. 
• Ensuring that supplier deliveries are in line with contract deliverables or obligations, e.g. price, quality, quantity, etc. 
• Holding suppliers accountable to agreements – price, quality, service, delivery times, etc. 
• Constantly scan environment for better suppliers, products, market trends, etc. 
• Leading the SCM team in executing best practices and measuring performance through agreed upon Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). 
• Ensuring good governance and compliance with proper administration, audit records, as well as legislative requirements. 
• Establishment and implementation of invoice, contracts, deviation, etc compliance checklists and registers. 
• Receiving and reviewing submitted tenders/proposals for SCM compliance against the requirements defined in the Terms of References or Calls for Proposals. 
• Conducting SCM compliance checks for contracts that have been awarded and contracts on the contracts register to ensure compliance with the SCM policy. 
• Leading administrative and supply chain management financial -year-end activities and responding to audit queries to ensure a clean administration.