Job Opportunity: Council Liaison Specialist at the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality

The City of Johannesburg, a bustling metropolitan area located in the heart of Gauteng Province, is widely recognized as Africa’s economic powerhouse. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a uniquely African character, Johannesburg stands as a global city poised for further development. The municipality is currently seeking a qualified and motivated individual to join its team as a Council Liaison Specialist on a contractual basis. This role involves crucial facilitation and management responsibilities, ensuring seamless communication and efficient operations between the city legislature, the Department, and the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC).

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for this position, candidates must possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Educational Qualifications:
  • Matric (Grade 12) certificate.
  • National Diploma in Political Science, Public Administration, or a related field (NQF Level 6) or an equivalent qualification.
• Experience:
  • 3 to 4 years of relevant work experience, with at least 2 years in a professional role.
  • Prior experience and understanding of Legislature or Council operations are essential.
• Additional Requirements:
  • A valid driver’s license is mandatory.

Primary Function of the Role

The Council Liaison Specialist serves as a strategic facilitator, developing and directing communication links between the legislature, the MMC, and the Department. The primary objective is to ensure smooth interactions and proactive relationship management to support the effective governance and service delivery of the city.

Key Responsibilities and Performance Areas

The successful candidate will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities aimed at optimizing operations and ensuring effective liaison management:

1. Project Planning and Business Optimization:
   • Execute project planning activities to guide the business unit’s overall planning process.
   • Implement strategies to optimize processes, enhancing efficiency and outcomes within the unit.
2. Council Liaison Management:
   • Facilitate communication and ensure that interactions between the MMC, the department, and the legislature are productive and well-coordinated.
   • Manage and maintain relationships proactively to resolve issues before they escalate.
3. Asset and Resource Management:
   • Oversee and manage the unit’s assets and resources, ensuring optimal use and control.
4. Governance and Risk Management:
   • Execute tasks that uphold governance standards and minimize risks, ensuring compliance with all relevant policies and regulations.
5. Monitoring and Reporting:
   • Track and report on the performance of the Directorate, providing regular updates and ensuring transparency in operations.
6. Administrative Functions:
   • Handle general administrative duties, including record-keeping and generating comprehensive reports.

Competencies and Skills

The ideal candidate should possess the following competencies to excel in the role:

1. Communication Skills:
   • Strong oral and written communication abilities, with meticulous attention to detail.
2. Coordination and Interpersonal Skills:
   • Exceptional interpersonal skills for effective team collaboration.
   • Ability to coordinate activities efficiently and manage relationships.
3. Negotiation and Networking:
   • Ability to build and maintain networks and negotiate effectively with various stakeholders.
4. Emotional Intelligence:
   • Proficient in conflict management and able to demonstrate emotional intelligence in high-pressure situations.
5. Project Management:
   • Skilled in planning, organizing, and executing projects with precision.
6. Planning and Organization:
   • Capable of managing multiple priorities with a strategic and organized approach.

Application Process

Interested candidates must follow the application process outlined by the City of Johannesburg:

• Documentation:
  • Complete the prescribed application form, ensuring all sections are accurately filled.
  • Attach a detailed CV, including your qualifications, competencies, and experience.
  • Note that only shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide certified copies of qualifications and other supporting documents at a later stage.
• Submission:
  • Applications can be submitted via the municipality’s official channels. Specific submission details should be obtained directly from the City’s recruitment office or their official website.

Important Information:

• Only applicants who submit complete and accurate documentation will be considered.
• Incomplete or late applications will be disqualified.
• If you do not hear back from the City of Johannesburg within three months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.