DEPUTY DIRECTOR EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Job Overview

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is hiring a Deputy Director for Employee Health and Wellness based in Pretoria (R932 292 per annum). The role requires an NQF Level 7 qualification in HR, Social Work, Psychology, or Public Health, relevant professional registration, and 3-5 years of junior managerial experience. Responsibilities include managing the EHW strategy, implementing wellness programmes, overseeing EAP services, stakeholder management, and resource budgeting. Candidates must apply online using the new Z83 form.

Requirements & Qualifications

• An Undergraduate Bachelor’s Degree / Advanced Diploma qualification (NQF Level 7) in Human Resource Management / Social Work / Psychology / Occupational Health / Public Health as recognized by SAQA.
• Registration with statutory bodies like South African Council for Social Services Council Professions (SACSSP) as a social worker, or Health Professions Council of South Africa as registered counsellor/ clinical psychologist.
• 3–5 years’ experience at Junior Managerial level (ASD) in Employee Health and Wellness environment.
• Knowledge of Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, Batho Pele Principles, DPSA Employee Health and Wellness Strategic Framework, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and HIV & AIDS and TB management policies.
• Skills in Programme and project management, financial management, communication, interpersonal relations, presentation, analytical thinking, facilitation, policy development, strategic planning, and problem-solving.
• Willingness to work irregular hours and travel extensively.
• A valid driver’s licence is essential.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage the development and implementation of Employee Health and Wellness Strategy and Programmes.
• Lead the development and review of the EHW Strategy aligned to departmental strategic objectives.
• Oversee the implementation of EHW programmes including wellness, HIV & AIDS, TB, and mental health.
• Ensure alignment with DPSA EHW Strategic Framework and other relevant prescripts.
• Develop annual implementation plans and monitor programme delivery.
• Integrate EHW initiatives with broader HR and organisational development strategies.
• Identify emerging wellness risks and design appropriate interventions.
• Manage Employee Wellness and Health Promotion Programmes, including health screenings and awareness campaigns.
• Ensure provision of Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) services and promote mental health and psychosocial support initiatives.
• Monitor utilisation and effectiveness of wellness services and coordinate wellness events.
• Ensure confidentiality and ethical standards in employee support services.
• Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks for EHW programmes, track performance, and compile reports.
• Provide strategic advice to management on EHW matters and liaise with internal and external stakeholders.
• Represent the Department in EHW forums and committees.
• Facilitate awareness and capacity-building initiatives for managers and employees.
• Manage all resources of the unit, supervise support staff, and develop and manage the EH&W budget.

Enquiries & Contact