Deputy Director: Births and Deaths – Lead Critical Civic Services in South Africa

The Department of Home Affairs is inviting qualified and experienced professionals to apply for the position of Deputy Director: Births and Deaths (Ref No: HRMC 11/26/2). This role is based at Head Office in Tshwane and sits within the Sub-Directorate responsible for one of the most essential services in government — the registration of births and deaths.

This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about public service, operational excellence, and improving service delivery systems that directly impact citizens’ lives. From ensuring accurate population records to supporting digital transformation, this role carries both responsibility and national importance.

Salary and Benefits

Salary Range: R1,059,105 – R1,247,574 per annum
Level: 12 (All-inclusive remuneration package)

This package reflects the seniority of the role and includes benefits aligned with public service guidelines.

Key Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Educational Qualifications

An undergraduate qualification (NQF Level 6) in one of the following:
- Business Management
- Public Management
- Public Administration
- Operations Management
- Customer Services Management

Experience

A minimum of three (3) years’ experience at the Assistant Director (Junior Management) level

Knowledge

Strong understanding of:
- Departmental legislation and prescripts
- Public Service legislation and regulatory frameworks
Familiarity with civic services operations, particularly birth and death registration processes

Additional Requirements

Valid driver’s license (advantageous)
Willingness to travel and work extended hours when required

Core Skills and Competencies

The ideal candidate must demonstrate a well-rounded set of professional and leadership skills, including:

Service delivery innovation
Client orientation and customer focus
People management and empowerment
Financial management
Strategic planning and manpower forecasting
Project management and decision-making
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Analytical thinking and problem-solving
Conflict management and negotiation skills
Presentation and facilitation skills
Computer literacy and report writing
High levels of honesty, integrity, and professionalism

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Deputy Director: Births and Deaths will oversee operations, ensure compliance, and drive improvements in the registration system.

Operations Management: Births and Death Registration

Oversee the processing of birth and death registration applications across all service platforms.
Ensure compliance with approved frameworks, service standards, and operational procedures.
Monitor the accuracy and completeness of records, identifying and correcting errors or inconsistencies.
Manage late registrations of births and deaths in line with legislative requirements.

Records and Systems Management

Oversee pre-modification and modification processes for birth registration records.
Ensure effective management of digital systems and automated platforms, including Command Centre operations.
Maintain data quality and system integrity across all platforms.
Support digital transformation initiatives to modernize service delivery.

Document and Process Management

Manage projects related to document management and record rectification services.
Ensure efficient processing of Funeral Undertaker designations.
Develop and maintain a reliable database for registered Funeral Undertakers.

Governance and Compliance

Ensure adherence to policies, procedures, and legislative frameworks.
Identify and escalate irregularities or suspected fraud to relevant authorities.
Promote accountability and compliance within the unit.

Stakeholder Engagement

Engage with internal and external stakeholders to improve service delivery.
Support intergovernmental relations and collaboration.
Facilitate communication between departments and service points.

Risk Management and Quality Assurance

Monitor and manage risks associated with registration processes.
Ensure quality assurance standards are met across all operations.
Implement corrective actions where necessary.

Resource and Team Management

Manage human, financial, and physical resources within the unit.
Provide coaching and guidance to staff on best practices and compliance.
Promote a culture of accountability, performance, and continuous improvement.

Key Factors for Success

KEY FACTOR: Operational Excellence

The ability to manage complex registration processes efficiently and accurately is essential for maintaining reliable national records.

KEY FACTOR: Leadership and Team Development

Strong leadership skills are required to guide, motivate, and develop staff while ensuring high performance and compliance.

KEY FACTOR: Governance and Compliance

A deep understanding of legislation and the ability to enforce compliance ensure integrity in all operations.

KEY FACTOR: Digital Transformation and Innovation

Embracing and driving digital solutions will improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance service delivery.

KEY FACTOR: Stakeholder Engagement

Building strong relationships with stakeholders ensures collaboration, trust, and improved service outcomes.

KEY FACTOR: Risk and Quality Management

Proactively identifying risks and maintaining quality standards is critical to preventing errors and ensuring public confidence.

Application Process

Applicants must submit their applications through one of the following channels:

Online via the Department of Home Affairs eRecruitment system
Email submission to: civicsrecruitment@dha.gov.za

All applications must comply with the official Directions to Applicants, including submission of a completed Z83 form and a detailed CV.

Enquiries

Contact Person: Mr J. Modipa
Telephone: 012 406 4243

Final Thoughts

This role is more than just a management position — it is an opportunity to contribute to one of the most critical functions of government. Accurate birth and death registration underpins national planning, identity management, and access to essential services.

As Deputy Director, you will play a key role in ensuring that these systems operate efficiently, transparently, and in line with modern digital standards. If you are a results-driven professional with strong leadership skills and a commitment to public service, this position offers a rewarding and impactful career path.