DEPUTY DIRECTOR: CLUSTER PROGRAMME SUPPORT

Job Overview

The Department of Small Business Development is hiring a Deputy Director: Cluster Programme Support based in Pretoria. The role requires a Bachelor's Degree in Economics, Entrepreneurship, Development Studies, Business Management, or equivalent, alongside three years of technical experience in value chain analysis and clusters at a supervisory or managerial level. Responsibilities include developing industrial clusters, mobilising funding, conducting value chain analyses, promoting MSME participation, and managing sub-directorate operations.

Requirements & Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s Degree (NQF level 7) in Economics, Entrepreneurship, Development Studies, Business Management, or equivalent/related as recognised by SAQA.
• 3 years’ technical experience within the value chain analysis and clusters environment at a supervisory level or managerial (ASD) level.
• Proven competencies and skills in communication (verbal and written), Programme and Project Management, Financial Management, Service Delivery Innovation, Client orientation and customer focus, Problem solving and analysis.
• Skills in research and industry analysis.
• Knowledge of industrialisation and localisation.
• Thorough understanding of industrial clusters and Programme Management will be an added advantage.
• B/EB Driver’s license and Security Clearance of Secret will be considered as additional.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide support for the development of clusters for each product or industry as identified in the localisation framework or government strategy.
• Monitor that non-financial and financial support, market linkages, and other support are provided to cluster members.
• Mobilise funding and appoint cluster managers.
• Develop and implement cluster models, frameworks, and support mechanisms to enhance productivity, innovation, and competitiveness.
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on cluster programme performance against APP targets and strategic objectives.
• Promote localisation by strengthening local production capabilities and supplier development within clusters.
• Conduct sub-sector and value chain analyses to identify high-impact cluster opportunities aligned with national priorities.
• Assess industry value chains to determine MSME entry points and meaningful participation through procurement opportunities.
• Provide secretariat services to the Technical and Adjudication Committees.
• Communicate with stakeholders and provide regular feedback on programme implementation progress.
• Facilitate partnerships with government, private sector, and agencies to support cluster growth and sustainability.
• Provide technical guidance, advisory support, and capacity building to cluster participants.
• Ensure effective stakeholder engagement, communication, and coordination across programmes.
• Manage the operations and resources of the sub-Directorate in line with relevant prescripts.

Enquiries & Contact