Director: Agriculture Inputs Control – Lead Science, Safety & Innovation

Pretoria, Gauteng | Agricultural Production, Biosecurity & Natural Resources Management | Senior Management (Level 13)

Are you a science-driven leader with a passion for agriculture, regulation, and innovation? This is your opportunity to step into a powerful role as Director: Agriculture Inputs Control, where your expertise will shape the safety, quality, and regulation of agricultural inputs across South Africa 🇿🇦

From fertilizers and animal feeds to pest control products, your leadership will ensure that everything used in agriculture meets the highest standards—protecting farmers, consumers, and the environment.

Salary: R1,266,714 per annum (All-inclusive package)
Reference: 3/3/1/73/2025
Closing Date: 14 April 2025

About the Role

This senior leadership position focuses on regulating and managing agricultural inputs, ensuring compliance with national laws and international standards. You’ll lead a team of professionals, oversee scientific evaluations, and guide policy development that directly impacts food safety and agricultural productivity.

This is more than just a job—it’s a role where science meets policy and leadership drives impact.

Key Requirements

To qualify for this role, you must meet the following:

Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in Agriculture
Registered with the South African Council for Scientific Professions as a Professional Natural Scientist
Completed Pre-entry Certificate for SMS (National School of Government)
Minimum 5 years’ experience at the middle or senior management level

Key Knowledge Areas

KEY FACTOR: Legislative & Regulatory Expertise

You must have strong knowledge of public service legislation, including the Public Finance Management Act and Labour Relations Act.

KEY FACTOR: Agricultural Inputs Knowledge

Deep understanding of fertilizers, farm feeds, agricultural remedies, and stock remedies (Act No. 36 of 1947) is essential.

KEY FACTOR: International Standards

Familiarity with global regulations and registration processes ensures South Africa remains aligned with international best practices.

KEY FACTOR: Scientific & Research Knowledge

Understanding scientific principles, product development, and risk assessment is critical for making informed decisions.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Development & Regulation

Develop and implement policies, strategies, and legislation for agricultural inputs.
Ensure continuous review and improvement of regulations.
Align national standards with international requirements.

Compliance & Monitoring

Ensure compliance with the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies, and Stock Remedies Act.
Monitor adherence to regulations and enforce standards.
Provide regulatory interpretations and technical advice.

Scientific Evaluation & Risk Assessment

Oversee scientific data analysis and product evaluations.
Conduct risk assessments to ensure product safety and effectiveness.
Interpret scientific reports and guide decision-making.

Registration & Administration

Manage registration processes for agricultural inputs.
Ensure efficient and transparent systems for approvals.
Oversee tariff setting and revenue collection.

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships

Build relationships with industry stakeholders, NGOs, and government departments.
Facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Represent South Africa in national and international forums.

Operational & Resource Management

Develop and implement operational plans.
Manage budgets and allocate resources effectively.
Monitor performance and ensure delivery on targets.

Key Factors for Success

KEY FACTOR: Strategic Leadership

You must guide the directorate with vision, ensuring alignment with national priorities and global standards.

KEY FACTOR: Analytical Thinking

Strong problem-solving skills are essential for handling complex scientific and regulatory challenges.

KEY FACTOR: Stakeholder Collaboration

Success depends on building strong partnerships across sectors.

KEY FACTOR: Communication Skills

Clear communication is vital when dealing with technical information and diverse audiences.

KEY FACTOR: Change Management

Adapting to new technologies, policies, and global trends is key to staying ahead.

Essential Skills & Competencies

Financial management
Programme and project management
Knowledge management
Service delivery innovation
People management and empowerment
Client orientation and customer focus
Integrity, honesty, and accountability

Why This Role Matters

Agricultural inputs are the backbone of food production. This role ensures that:

Farmers use safe and effective products
Consumers receive safe, high-quality food
The environment is protected through proper regulation
The agricultural sector remains competitive globally

Your leadership will directly influence food safety, agricultural productivity, and economic growth.

Additional Expectations

Willingness to work extended hours
Availability for local and international travel
Ability to manage high-level responsibilities

Enquiries & Applications

Contact: Mr M Mudzunga – (012) 319 6502

Apply via:

Hand delivery: 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria
Email: DAICrecruit73@nda.gov.za

Ready to Lead with Impact?

If you’re a visionary leader with strong scientific expertise and a passion for agriculture, this is your chance to make a real difference.

Share this opportunity with professionals who are ready to shape the future of agriculture in South Africa!