Food, Security & Agrarian Reform
Deputy Director-General: Food Security & Agrarian Reform
Pretoria, Gauteng | Government Role | Senior Management (SMS)
The South African government is offering a high-level leadership opportunity for an experienced professional to step into the role of Deputy Director-General: Food Security and Agrarian Reform. This is a powerful position where your decisions will directly impact food security, rural development, and agricultural transformation across the country 🇿🇦
Salary: R1,813,182 per annum (All-inclusive package)
Reference: 3/3/1/66/2025
Reference: 3/3/1/66/2025
About the Role
This executive role is designed for a strategic leader who is passionate about transforming agriculture, improving livelihoods, and ensuring sustainable food systems. You will lead national programmes, influence policy, and work closely with both local and international stakeholders
Key Requirements
To qualify for this senior position, you must have:
- An Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma (NQF Level 8) in Agricultural Studies or Agricultural Economics
- Completed the Pre-entry Certificate for SMS (via National School of Government)
- At least 8 years of senior management experience
- Strong knowledge of government legislation and policies
Key Knowledge Areas
KEY FACTOR: Government & Policy Expertise
A deep understanding of legislation such as the Public Finance Management Act, Labour Relations Act, and Public Service Act is essential.
KEY FACTOR: Global & Regional Awareness
Knowledge of organizations like SADC, the African Union, and the United Nations is crucial in shaping food security strategies.
KEY FACTOR: Food Security Systems
Understanding national food systems, rural development challenges, and agricultural production is key to success.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Develop national frameworks to promote household food security.
- Drive agrarian reform and support land redistribution programmes.
- Align departmental strategies with national priorities (MTSF)
Agricultural Development
- Improve production systems for subsistence and smallholder farmers.
- Provide infrastructure, inputs, and technical support.
- Strengthen agricultural value chains and sustainability.
Stakeholder & Partnership Management
- Collaborate with national and international partners.
- Build relationships with government entities and stakeholders.
- Support land reform beneficiaries with strategic guidance.
Policy Development & Implementation
- Develop and implement sector transformation strategies.
- Set norms and standards for extension and advisory services
- Monitor and evaluate programme effectiveness.
Financial & Resource Management
- Oversee development financing programmes.
- Allocate resources efficiently based on priorities.
- Ensure compliance with governance and financial regulations.
Key Factors for Success
KEY FACTOR: Strategic Leadership
You must be able to lead large-scale national programmes and inspire teams toward achieving long-term goals.
KEY FACTOR: Decision-Making & Problem Solving
Strong analytical thinking is required to address complex agricultural and economic challenges.
KEY FACTOR: Stakeholder Engagement
Building strong partnerships is essential for successful programme implementation.
KEY FACTOR: Communication Skills
Clear and effective communication is vital when dealing with government officials, stakeholders, and communities.
KEY FACTOR: Change Management
Driving transformation in the agricultural sector requires adaptability and innovation.
Skills & Competencies
- Financial management
- Programme & project management
- People management and empowerment
- Service delivery innovation
- Client orientation and customer focus
- Honesty, integrity, and accountability
Why This Role Matters
This is more than just a job—it’s a chance to shape the future of South Africa’s food systems. Your leadership will directly contribute to reducing poverty, improving nutrition, and empowering rural communities.
Additional Expectations
- Willingness to work extended hours
- Availability for travel, including international trips
- High level of responsibility and accountability
Ready to Lead Change?
If you’re a visionary leader with a passion for agriculture and national development, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Share this opportunity with experienced professionals who are ready to lead South Africa toward a more food-secure future!