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South Africa’s DIRCO Is Hiring: Senior Chief Director Vacancies Open for 2026

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has opened applications for several high-level Chief Director positions within its Management Echelon. These vacancies offer experienced professionals an opportunity to shape South Africa’s foreign policy, global engagement, financial governance, and diplomatic training at the highest level.

With a competitive all-inclusive salary package of R1,494,900 per annum, these posts are ideal for seasoned senior managers looking to contribute to national and international development.

🔔 Closing Date: 27 February 2026

📍 Duty Station: Pretoria

Available Chief Director Positions at DIRCO

1. Chief Director: Foreign Service (Bilateral)

Branches:

• Africa, Asia & Middle East
• Europe & Americas

This role focuses on strengthening South Africa’s bilateral relations through political, economic, and cultural cooperation. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership, advise departmental executives on foreign policy, and support South African missions abroad.

Key Requirements:

• NQF Level 7 qualification in Political, Social, or Human Sciences
• Minimum 5 years’ experience at Senior Management level
• Strong knowledge of South African foreign policy and international diplomacy
• Nyukela Pre-Entry Certificate (SMS)

2. Chief Director: Foreign Service – Human Rights & Humanitarian Affairs

Branch: Global Governance and Continental Agenda

This position plays a critical role in advancing South Africa’s global human rights agenda and humanitarian engagement. It involves coordinating international and regional human rights processes and promoting democracy, rule of law, and good governance.

Key Requirements:

• Degree in Political Science, International Relations, or related field
• At least 5 years’ senior management experience in international relations
• In-depth knowledge of human rights frameworks and global governance
• Understanding of Agenda 2063 and the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals

3. Chief Director: Financial Management

Branch: Financial and Asset Management

This role is responsible for overseeing departmental budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). It supports both head office operations and South African missions abroad.

Key Requirements:

• NQF Level 7 qualification in Financial Management or related field
• 5+ years’ experience at senior management level
• Strong understanding of PFMA, Treasury Regulations, and financial systems
• Proven leadership and strategic planning skills

4. Chief Director: Foreign Service Training & International School

Branch: Diplomatic Training, Research & Development (DTRD)

This position leads the training and development of South Africa’s diplomatic corps. Responsibilities include overseeing diplomatic training programmes, foreign language instruction, accreditation systems, and library services.

Key Requirements:

• NQF Level 7 qualification or equivalent
• At least 5 years’ experience in senior management within training or diplomacy
• Knowledge of DIRCO policies, Foreign Service Act, and government processes
• Strong project management and leadership capabilities

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

• A new Z83 application form (effective 1 January 2021)
• A detailed CV
• Nyukela SMS Pre-Entry Certificate (for SMS posts)

📧 Applications must be emailed to the specific address listed for each post, with the post title quoted in the subject line to receive an acknowledgement.

⚠️ Late applications or submissions using the incorrect Z83 form will not be considered.

Important Notes for Applicants

• All shortlisted candidates will undergo security clearance, qualification verification, and pre-entry assessments
• Applicants must declare all boards served on in their CV
• Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

Why Consider a Career at DIRCO?

Working at DIRCO means being at the forefront of South Africa’s international relations, diplomacy, and global influence. These roles offer not only a competitive salary but also the chance to contribute meaningfully to national priorities, international cooperation, and global development.

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