DEPUTY DIRECTOR: WOODLANDS AND INDIGENOUS FOREST MANAGEMENT

Job Overview

The Department requires a Deputy Director for Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management based in the Eastern Cape. Candidates must hold an NQF 6 qualification in Forestry or Environmental Science with at least 5 years of relevant experience, including 3 years in a managerial role. Responsibilities include developing forest management policies, monitoring regional program implementation, ensuring compliance with environmental legislation such as the National Forest Act, and managing human and financial resources.

Requirements & Qualifications

• National Diploma (NQF 6) in Forestry / Environmental Science / Environmental Management or relevant qualification recognised by SAQA.
• A minimum of five (5) years’ experience in Indigenous Forest / Commercial Forest or related field.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience at an entry/junior managerial level (Assistant Director level or equivalent).
• Ability to interpret and apply National Forest Act 1998 (Act 84 of 1998), National Veld and Forest Fire Act 1998 (Act 101 of 1998), NEMA, NEMBA, Public Service Act, PFMA, and Labour Relations Act.
• Knowledge of Project Management and People Management / Leadership.
• Planning, Organizing, Facilitation, Negotiation, and Problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal, presentation, awareness raising, and report writing).
• Ability to interpret regulations and develop policy.
• A valid driving license and willingness to travel.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage and develop policies, norms, standards, tools, and procedures for sustainable management of indigenous forests and woodlands.
• Monitor the implementation of policies, strategies, and programmes by the regions (WIFM).
• Manage conservation planning and compliance with national and international biodiversity management frameworks.
• Determine relative conservation and socio-economic values of forest patches as well as threats.
• Develop, maintain, and implement Regional Forest Management plans and subordinate plans (forest rehabilitation, environmental rehabilitation, species conservation, sustainable harvesting management, waste management, fire management and protection, infrastructure management, cultural site management).
• Ensure Ecological Forest monitoring and conduct national Principle, Criteria, Indicators and Standards (PCI&S) audits.
• Ensure Integrated Environment plan for indigenous forest and resources of the Sub directorate (Physical, Human & Financial resources).
• Analyse the impact of environmental assessments and ensure compliance with environmental legislation, especially NFA and NVFFA.
• Manage achievements of the Regional Annual Plan of Operation.
• Develop and provide forest management guidelines, norms, and best practices to WIFM regions.
• Evaluate and monitor performance, appraise employees, and manage discipline.

Enquiries & Contact