Department of Agriculture Director: International Trade Promotions Vacancy 2026 | Stipend: R1,317,384 per annum

Opportunity Overview

The Department of Agriculture is seeking a highly experienced individual to fill the role of Director for International Trade Promotions. This is a crucial Senior Management Services (SMS) position within the International Trade Promotions Directorate, based in Pretoria.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to South Africa's agricultural trade and international relations, working at a senior managerial level to drive economic research, policy development, and trade agreements. Applicants who previously applied for this position are encouraged to reapply.

Minimum Requirements

• Successful completion of the Pre-entry Certificate for SMS, as endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG).
• A Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in Agricultural Economics, Trade, or Development Economics.
• A minimum of 5 years' experience at a middle or senior managerial level in Agricultural economics, Agricultural trade, or International trade.

Job Related Knowledge:

• Sound understanding of relevant legislation and regulations governing the Public Service, including the Public Financial Management Act, Treasury Regulations, Public Service Act, and Labour Relations Act.
• Knowledge of Government policies and priorities related to Agriculture.
• Understanding of the Government’s international relations policy framework, including its vision for international forums and the Intergovernmental Relations framework.
• Knowledge and understanding of the agricultural sector, Public Administration, and various structures and programmes such as SADC, NEPAD, AU, and UN.
• Understanding of relevant regional conventions and protocols, and diplomatic protocol.
• Knowledge and understanding of the White Paper on the Transformation of the Public Service (Batho Pele principles).

Job Related Skills:

• Financial management.
• Strategic Capability and Leadership.
• Programme and Project Management.
• Knowledge management.
• Service Delivery Innovation.
• Problem Solving and Analysis.
• People management and Empowerment.
• Client Orientation and Customer Focus.
• Communication skills.
• Demonstrated Honesty and Integrity.
• Change management.
• Ability to work extended hours.
• Willingness to travel, including international travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage economic research and provide regular policy briefs to management.
• Conduct research on economic issues and disseminate research findings through technical reports and briefing documents.
• Compile, analyse, and report data to explain economic phenomena and forecast market trends.
• Formulate recommendations, policies, or plans to guide Department of Agriculture interventions.
• Monitor international trends on agricultural commodity markets and provide briefs to management.
• Manage the development of international relations and trade policies (bilateral and multilateral) related to agriculture.
• Manage the analysis and development of policies and provide advice on bilateral trade.
• Manage the analysis and development of policies and provide advice on multilateral trade.
• Provide inputs with regards to the signing of trade agreements.
• Provide necessary documentation for stakeholders.

How to Apply

To apply for this opportunity, please submit your application via email to:

• Email Address: DITPrecruit58@nda.gov.za

Please ensure your application reaches the Department of Agriculture by the closing date.

• Closing Date: August 7, 2026
• Reference Number: 3/3/1/58/2026