ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: BILATERAL RELATIONS

Department of Sport, Arts and Culture

Reference number: DSAC-15/09/2026 (X2 POSTS)
Salary: R487 197 per annum (Level 09)
Centre: Pretoria
Province: Gauteng
Closing date: 5 October 2026
Circular: No 34 of 2026

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Requirements

Senior Certificate/Matric Certificate /Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent qualification; Minimum three-year National Diploma (NQF level 6) / Degree (NQF level 7) as recognised by SAQA in International Relations/ Political Science/ / International Law/ Diplomatic studies or any relevant qualification; 2-3 years relevant experience at least 2 years as an Officer in international relations, diplomacy, bilateral cooperation, intergovernmental relations, or any relevant environment; Knowledge of Public Service Regulations; Knowledge and understanding of international relations and diplomacy; Knowledge and understanding of Bilateral and multilateral cooperation processes and protocols; Knowledge of government policies and international cooperation frameworks; Research and policy analysis; Stakeholder and relationship management; Project and programme coordination; Negotiation and facilitation skills; Planning and organisiting skills; Communication and interpersonal relations; Computer literacy; Ability to work under pressure; Ability to Interact with other officials from other countries; Adapts to changing demands and conditions; Diplomacy, tact, and cultural sensitivity.

Duties

The purpose of this post is to facilitate and strengthen bilateral cooperation programmes and agreements with partner countries in support of the departmental priorities; Facilitate the implementation of bilateral agreements to strengthen cooperation and achieve tangible outcomes-Coordinate and facilitate bilateral engagements, including preparatory meetings and follow-ups with designated partner countries; Maintain relationships with foreign governments, embassies, commissions, and international partners; Negotiate, draft, conclude, and renew bilateral agreements and cooperation frameworks; Implement and coordinate agreements, programmes, and action plans; Ensure alignment of bilateral agreements with national cultural diplomacy and international relations frameworks; Monitor and track bilateral engagements and programme delivery status; Enhance and strengthen bilateral cooperation in sport, arts, culture and heritage to advance South Africans interest and cultural diplomacy-Facilitate implementation of signed agreements, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), and action plans; Monitor, evaluate, and report on progress against bilateral commitments and deliverables; Provide technical and administrative support during negotiations and review processes; Maintain a centralised database and records system for all international agreements and cooperation instruments; Ensure compliance with approved protocols, governance frameworks, and international obligations; Prepare implementation progress reports and updates for relevant stakeholders; Strengthen and maintain cordial relations between the Department and its bilateral partners-Coordinate the preparation of official documentation, including Ministerial submissions, DG submissions, briefing notes, reports, and correspondence; Facilitate internal coordination between branches and line function managers to ensure policy and operational alignment; Engage with relevant stakeholders; Coordinate participation of departmental officials and cultural practitioners in international programmes; Facilitate international travel arrangements; Assist with intergovernmental and multilateral coordination; Maintain stakeholder engagement records and communication logs; Conduct research, policy analysis, and international scanning-Conduct research on international trends, cultural diplomacy practices, and policy developments; Analyse political, economic, social, and sector-specific developments affecting bilateral relations; Prepare country profiles, policy briefs, and strategic analyses; Identify opportunities for international collaboration and partnerships; Benchmark departmental programmes against international best practice; Provide evidence-based input for negotiation and strategic decision-making; Manage international events, delegations, and protocol processes-Coordinate bilateral meetings, official visits, conferences, workshops, cultural exchanges, and international forums; Organise and facilitate incoming and outgoing international delegations; Manage logistical and programme arrangements for official visits; Support protocol and diplomatic engagement processes; Liaise with protocol units, DIRCO, embassies, and hosting institutions to ensure seamless execution of engagements; Compile post-event reports and evaluation summaries.

Where to send your application

Applicants must use this link below to access DSAC E-Recruitment System https://erecruit.dsac.gov.za/public/login_test.php Hand delivery: Sealed envelope addressed to Chief Director: Human Resource Management and Development, Sechaba House, 202 Madiba Street, Pretoria Central. Postal mail to The Chief Director: Human Resource Management and Development, Private Bag X897, Pretoria, 0001.

Enquiries

Mr J Mogashoa Tel No: (012) 441 3095

Taken from Public Service Vacancy Circular 34 of 2026, published by the Department of Public Service and Administration on 18 September 2026. Open the PDF to check this post against the original. Last checked 18 September 2026.

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