Chief Information Officer

Chief Information Officer
Chief Information Officer (CIO) – Ref No: B/A1/2025
Directorate CHIEF : Information Technology and Related Personnel
Salary: R1 436 022 per annum. This inclusive remuneration package consists of a basic salary, the state’s contribution to the Government Employees Pension Fund, and a flexible portion that may be structured in terms of the applicable rules. The successful candidate will be required to enter into a performance agreement and sign an employment contract.
Centre: HSRC Building, Pretoria
Job Requirements for Chief Information Officer
Minimum Qualifications:
A qualification at NQF Level 7 as recognized by SAQA in one of the following fields:
- Computer Science
- Computer Information Systems
- IT Management
- Database Administration
Experience:
- A minimum of five (5) years’ experience at a senior management level.
- Proven track record in managing IT systems and infrastructure in a complex environment.
- Demonstrated experience in leading large-scale IT transformation initiatives.
Knowledge and Expertise Required: FOR Chief Information Officer
- Strong understanding of Public Service regulatory frameworks such as:
- Minimum Information Security Standards (MISS)
- Minimum Interoperability Standards (MIOS)
- Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA)
- State Information Technology Agency Act (SITA ACT)
- Corporate Support ICT Framework
- Knowledge of government digital strategies and e-governance initiatives.
- Sound understanding of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and Treasury Regulations.
- Extensive knowledge of IT governance and risk management principles.
- Familiarity with cloud computing, cybersecurity, and emerging digital technologies.
- Understanding of data analytics and its role in improving government service delivery.
also see: Corporate Communication Position Overview
Core Competencies:
- Programme and project management
- People management and empowerment
- Financial management
- Policy development and formulation
- Strategic capability and leadership
- Change management
- Interpersonal and stakeholder management
- Knowledge management
- Problem-solving and analysis
- Statistical and data analysis
- Service delivery innovation
Personal Attributes:
- Pragmatic approach to problem-solving
- Ability to work effectively under pressure
- Strong leadership and decision-making skills
- Ability to harness IT, Information Systems, and Information Management to solve business challenges while managing costs and risks
- Adaptability to technological advancements and changes in the IT landscape
Key Responsibilities:
1. Managing Information and Knowledge Management Services
- Oversee the effective use of IT solutions to facilitate knowledge management within the department.
- Implement and maintain knowledge-sharing platforms to enhance operational efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with data governance policies and regulatory frameworks.
- Establish policies and guidelines for data protection and information security.
- Promote a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the IT team.
2. Overseeing IT Operations and Infrastructure Management
- Supervise the administration, maintenance, and security of IT systems.
- Develop and implement IT policies and procedures that support organizational objectives.
- Ensure alignment of IT operations with the department’s strategic goals.
- Monitor and evaluate IT performance and service delivery to ensure optimal efficiency.
- Lead efforts to modernize IT infrastructure, including cloud-based solutions and cybersecurity measures.
3. Designing and Developing IT Systems
- Manage the planning, design, and implementation of new IT solutions to improve operational efficiency.
- Ensure scalability, security, and sustainability of IT systems.
- Evaluate emerging technologies for potential adoption.
- Provide technical guidance and support for system integration and development projects.
- Establish quality assurance measures to ensure system reliability and user satisfaction.
4. Managing Departmental Technology Programmes and Projects
- Lead the execution of key IT projects from initiation to completion.
- Ensure project delivery within scope, budget, and timeline constraints.
- Implement risk mitigation strategies for IT projects.
- Oversee project governance and ensure compliance with industry best practices.
- Foster collaboration between IT and other departments to align technology initiatives with business objectives.
5. Stakeholder and Service Provider Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with IT vendors and service providers.
- Oversee service-level agreements (SLAs) to ensure the quality and timeliness of services rendered.
- Foster partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance the department’s IT capabilities.
- Engage with government agencies and external organizations to promote digital transformation.
- Represent the department in forums and committees related to IT governance and policy development.
6. Budget, Human Resources, and Performance Management
- Ensure effective utilization of financial and human resources within the directorate.
- Develop and manage the chief directorate’s budget in alignment with the department’s financial regulations.
- Monitor and report on directorate performance against set targets.
- Lead workforce planning and talent development initiatives to strengthen IT competencies.
- Implement succession planning strategies to ensure continuity of leadership in the IT division.
7. Ensuring Compliance and IT Governance
- Implement IT governance frameworks to enhance accountability and decision-making.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements.
- Establish internal controls and risk management strategies for IT operations.
- Conduct regular IT audits to identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to standards.
- Promote ethical and responsible use of technology within the department.
8. Driving Innovation and Digital Transformation
- Champion digital transformation initiatives to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
- Encourage innovation in IT solutions to address emerging challenges in public administration.
- Explore automation and artificial intelligence to improve productivity and decision-making.
- Lead initiatives for smart government solutions and e-government services.
- Stay abreast of technological advancements and provide strategic recommendations for adoption.
9. Cybersecurity and Risk Management
- Develop and implement cybersecurity strategies to protect sensitive government data.
- Conduct security assessments and vulnerability testing to mitigate cyber threats.
- Promote awareness and training on cybersecurity best practices.
- Collaborate with law enforcement and cybersecurity agencies to enhance national IT security.
- Establish incident response protocols to address security breaches effectively.
10. Reporting and Performance Monitoring
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure IT effectiveness.
- Provide regular reports on IT performance and strategic initiatives.
- Conduct periodic reviews and evaluations of IT projects and policies.
- Develop dashboards and reporting tools for real-time monitoring of IT operations.
- Ensure transparency and accountability in IT decision-making and resource allocation.
Application Process and Enquiries:
Interested candidates meeting the above requirements are encouraged to apply. For any enquiries, please contact Ms. L Oliphant at Tel No: (012) 312-7654.
Closing Date: [Specify the Closing Date]
The Department is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from individuals who will contribute to a representative workforce. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Additional Information:
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Lead strategic planning for IT initiatives in alignment with government objectives.
- Develop long-term IT roadmaps to ensure technological sustainability.
- Engage in continuous professional development to stay updated on IT trends.
- Promote an inclusive and diverse work environment within the IT division.
- Foster a culture of excellence and accountability in IT service delivery.
This role presents an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader to drive digital transformation and innovation in government IT operations. If you are a visionary IT professional with a passion for public service, we encourage you to apply.
