Policy and Planning Manager Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Plans, develops, organises, directs, controls and coordinates policy advice and strategic planning within organisations.
What does a Policy and Planning Manager do?
A Policy and Planning Manager leads the development of policies and strategic plans that guide an organisation’s priorities and decisions. The role involves coordinating planning activities, organising input from relevant teams, directing the policy-development process and helping ensure that advice and plans are aligned across the organisation. Possible areas of focus include corporate planning, public policy, planning and development, policy development and strategic planning.
Specialisations
How to become a Policy and Planning Manager in South Africa
- Build a foundation in subjects such as Business Studies, Economics, Accounting, English, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, depending on your interests and school options.
- Consider the Further Education and Training Certificate: Generic Management: Planning and Scheduling Techniques (SAQA ID 83988, NQF Level 4, 150 credits) as a relevant training pathway.
- Develop practical experience in administration, planning, policy support, coordination or organisational management.
- Take on increasing responsibility for planning activities, coordinating people and preparing policy or strategic-planning information. Relevant education can support entry into the field, but management roles commonly also involve workplace progression and responsibility.
- Confirm current qualification, provider and assessment details with SAQA or an accredited provider, and check role-specific expectations with potential employers.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
This career suits people interested in how organisations set priorities, develop policies and coordinate action. Preparation should combine management education with strong writing, planning and coordination abilities. Since this is a management career, progression through relevant workplace responsibilities may be as important as formal education when moving into a managerial role.
Useful school subjects
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Accounting
- English
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
Skills that may help
- Strategic planning
- Policy development
- Organising and coordinating activities
- Written communication
- Policy analysis
- Decision-making
- Leadership
- Time management