JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
SUMMARY OF JOB POSTS LISTED
Department of Tourism Opens Applications
The South African Department of Tourism has announced two high-level executive vacancies aimed at strengthening leadership within the country’s tourism sector and corporate management environment. The department is inviting suitably qualified and experienced professionals to apply for the positions of Deputy Director-General: Tourism Research, Policy and International Relations and Deputy Director-General: Corporate Management.
Applications close on 01 June 2026 at 16:30, and late submissions will not be considered.
Executive Opportunities in South Africa’s Tourism Sector
The Department of Tourism says the appointments form part of its commitment to promoting representivity, transformation, and institutional excellence within government. Both positions are based in Pretoria and offer an all-inclusive remuneration package of R1 813 182 per annum.
These senior executive roles are intended for visionary leaders capable of driving strategic transformation, governance, innovation, and policy development within one of South Africa’s key economic sectors.
Deputy Director-General: Tourism Research, Policy and International Relations
Reference Number: DT 30/2026
The department describes this role as central to shaping South Africa’s tourism future through research, policy development, international cooperation, and stakeholder partnerships.
The successful candidate will report directly to the Director-General and serve on the department’s strategic management team.
Key Responsibilities
The appointed executive will be responsible for:
- Leading tourism research and knowledge management initiatives
- Overseeing national tourism policy and strategy development
- Managing international tourism relations and bilateral engagements
- Coordinating stakeholder partnerships and sector collaboration
- Monitoring and evaluating departmental programmes
- Supporting tourism diplomacy and African regional integration
- Managing branch governance, performance, budgets, and risk management
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must possess:
- A SAQA-recognised NQF Level 8 postgraduate qualification in Tourism, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field
- At least 8 years’ experience at senior managerial level
- Strong leadership, policy, governance, and stakeholder management skills
- Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and Treasury Regulations
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical abilities
A Master’s Degree or PhD will be considered advantageous.
The department also requires candidates to complete the SMS Pre-Entry Programme before appointment.
Deputy Director-General: Corporate Management
Reference Number: DT31/2026
The Department of Tourism is also recruiting a Deputy Director-General to lead its corporate management branch and strengthen internal governance systems, digital transformation, human resources, and organisational performance.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will oversee:
- Strategic planning and implementation systems
- Human resource management and labour relations
- ICT and digital transformation initiatives
- Legal and governance support services
- Internal controls and risk management
- Facilities, security, and office support services
- Service delivery improvement programmes
The role also involves managing branch budgets and ensuring compliance with government regulations and policies.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must have:
- A SAQA-recognised NQF Level 8 qualification
- A minimum of 8 years’ senior management experience
- Strong strategic leadership and governance expertise
- Experience in public policy and corporate services
- Skills in organisational development, innovation, and change management
As with the previous post, completion of the SMS Pre-Entry Programme is compulsory before appointment.
Important Application Instructions
The Department of Tourism has emphasised that applicants must carefully follow all application guidelines to avoid disqualification.
Applicants are required to submit:
- A completed and signed new Z83 application form
- An updated comprehensive CV
Applications must be submitted as a single PDF document via email or delivered by hand to the department.
Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents.
Application Email Addresses
- Deputy Director-General: Tourism Research, Policy and International Relations
Email: Recruitment30@tourism.gov.za - Deputy Director-General: Corporate Management
Email: Recruitment31@tourism.gov.za
Selection and Screening Process
Shortlisted candidates will undergo:
- Practical competency assessments
- Integrity and ethical conduct evaluations
- Criminal record and qualification verification
- Employment and citizenship checks
Candidates applying for Senior Management Service (SMS) positions may also be subjected to psychometric assessments.
The department noted that appointments remain subject to security clearance and the signing of performance agreements.
Closing Date Reminder
Interested applicants have until 01 June 2026 at 16:30 to submit their applications.
The Department of Tourism reserves the right not to fill the advertised positions.
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