Director: Business Intelligence, Economic Analysis and Econometrics

Requirements

• A Senior Certificate and an advanced diploma or undergraduate qualification (NQF level 7) in Economics / Econometrics / Business Analytics / or equivalent as recognised by SAQA.
• NQF level 8 in the same disciplines / Master’s degree will be an added advantage.
• Possess a minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience at a middle/senior managerial level within an economic research, model analysis and forecasting-related environment.
• Experience in managing a research unit, coordination of research work within an institution and among research stakeholders, gathering of research or intelligence to inform programme and policy design, hosting research events such as conferences/summits, creation of research partnerships with research institutions, development of a research agenda and management of a knowledge management hub.
• Knowledge of the Public Service Legislative Framework and Digital collaboration platforms, Econometrics / Econometrics.
• A compulsory pre-entry into the Senior Management Service Certificate from the National School of Government will be required before assumption of duty (https://thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entry-programme).
• Display competencies in Strategic Capability & Leadership, Financial Management, Problem Solving and Analysis, People Management and Empowerment, Client Orientation and Customer Focus, Change Management, Service Delivery Innovation and Communication.

Duties

• Set and drive the Small Business Development Portfolio research agenda to support sector economic analysis, policy development, and strategic decision- making, including the identification of priority research areas and alignment with national and departmental objectives.
• Lead and oversee economic research, modelling, forecasting, and scenario analysis through the application of advanced econometric methodologies and digital tools, including assessing the impact of policy options and economic shocks on growth, development indices (statistical indicators), and MSME sustainability.
• Produce and deliver high-quality research and business intelligence outputs, including publications, policy briefs, and analytical insights on MSME performance and sector trends, to inform evidence-based decision-making.
• Coordinate and manage MSME- focused research initiatives and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including academia, industry, and research institutions, to strengthen the research ecosystem and leverage collaborative insights.
• Provide strategic advisory services to senior management and policymakers by integrating data-driven insights and research evidence into policy, strategy, programme design, and decision-making processes.
• Manage knowledge systems and ensure effective dissemination of research and sector information, including the development and maintenance of a central research repository, the use of digital platforms (e.g., dashboards, portals, automated reporting systems), and enabling data accessibility and interoperability across stakeholders, including a centralised access point for MSMEs.
• Manage the Directorate’s operations and its financial, human, and physical resources in compliance with applicable legislation, governance frameworks, and public sector regulatory requirements.

How to apply

New to the Z83 form? Read the application guide.

Enquiries

Notes from the department

• Applications must quote the relevant reference number and consist of:
• A fully completed and signed Z83 form and a recent comprehensive CV.
• Submission of copies of qualifications, Identity document, and any other relevant documents will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
• All non-SA citizens will be required to submit proof of permanent residence in South Africa when shortlisted.
• Personnel suitability checks will be done during the selection process.
• Applicants could be required to provide consent for access to their social media accounts.
• Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
• If you have not been contacted within 1 month of the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
• In the pursuit of diversity and redress, appointments will be made in line with the DSBD EE Plan.
• 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.
• All shortlisted candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments.
• One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment.
• The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement within three months of appointment, as well as complete a financial interest declaration form within one month of appointment and annually thereafter.
• The Department reserves the right not to fill or withdraw any advertised post.
• Note: a new application for employment (Z83) form is applicable from 01 January 2021.
• The new form can be downloaded online at http://www.dpsa.gov.za/dpsa2g/vacancies.asp.