Policy and Planning Manager

Highly relevant tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Developing, implementing and monitoring strategic plans, programs, policies, processes, systems and procedures to achieve goals, objectives and work standards;
• Developing, implementing, administering and participating in policy research and analysis;
• Coordinating the implementation of policies and practices;
• Establishing activity measures and measurements of accountability;
• Overseeing and participating in the development of policy documents and reports;
• Consulting with and providing expert advice to government officials and Board Members on policy, program and legislative issues;
• Representing the organization in negotiations, and at conventions, seminars, public hearings and forums convened to discuss policy issues.

Additional tasks may include:

• Developing policies, providing advice and information concerning areas of government and corporate policy and planning;
• Coordinating policy formulation and review, including evaluation of policy options;
• Overseeing implementation of organizational directives and policies;
• Providing briefings concerning policy and planning issues to Government Ministers or Board Members;
• Preparing discussion papers on policy and planning options;
• Drafting, or coordinating and supervising the drafting of, ministerial correspondence and requests for information or policy rulings.

Policy and Planning Managers are employed by governments and other large organizations to direct the creation of new policies and strategic plans. They lead teams of people in creating and maintaining a cohesive set of policies that reflect the organization’s needs and practices. Policy and Planning Managers are strategic thinkers and draw on their extensive experience to craft influential policy.

Policy and Planning Managers in a business context: 

Normally this type of employment is in well-established companies at a senior managerial level. For example, Strategic Planning Managers lead their organisation’s overall strategic planning effort. They consult with senior Managers to analyse past performance and determine the organisation’s best way forward, such as in the management of mergers and acquisitions and the direction of the company’s research and development. 

They must be able to conduct forecasting, helping senior leaders determine the best opportunities for growth within the business. Strategic Planning Managers usually require many years of business experience, as well as strong interpersonal skills as they interact regularly with customers, suppliers, company executives, Engineers, business professionals, law professionals, and potential partner companies. Experience in marketing and sales may be preferred. Strategic Planning Managers usually have a large number of direct reports, providing guidance and leadership to these employees. 

Applicants nominating this managerial occupation must submit an organizational chart. An organizational chart should include:

• The company letterhead,
• Your job position, and
• The job positions of your superiors and subordinates, as well as,
• All positions reporting to your immediate supervisor and to your direct subordinates.

If you are unable to obtain an organisational chart from your employer, please provide a statutory declaration outlining the required information and the reasons why this information cannot be provided.