Job Title: Director General
Grade: PPDA 1
Location: PPDA Offices, Lilongwe
Reporting To: Chairperson of the PPDA Authority
Supervision Exercised: All Directors and Heads of Departments within the Authority.
2. PURPOSE OF THE JOB
To manage the day-to-day operations of the Authority and ensure that performance targets agreed with the Board are achieved through specific performance targets with key directorate staff.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Management
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake the day-to-day management, supervision, and guidance of all Directorates through their respective Heads, exercising authority and leadership to ensure the achievement of results-oriented objectives.
- Develop, nurture, and manage a well-trained and motivated workforce to plan, implement, operate, and independently manage the delivery of public procurement services to PPDA’s clients and stakeholders.
- Initiate and/or participate in the formulation of appropriate strategic, organizational, and management structures to assure optimal efficiency in serving PPDA’s clients and stakeholders.
- Ensure the Authority has an appropriate and up-to-date management information system and technology to prepare annual public procurement institutional performance reports for advice to Government on mid-term and long-term policy formulation.
- Advise the Board and key stakeholders on policies, regulations, and desk instructions that may be needed to further the objectives of the PPDA.
- Liaise and conduct routine contacts with appropriate Government agencies to discuss, secure advice, guidance, authorization, and/or decisions on PPDA’s matters of strategic importance.
- Represent PPDA at local and international meetings, seminars, and conferences on subjects relating to Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets.
- Ensure strict compliance with the PPDA Act and its regulations, oversee the enforcement of procurement integrity, and manage the administrative review process in accordance with Part XI of the Act.
- In accordance with Part IV of the Act, ensure the proper management of the funds and property of the Authority and oversee the efficient collection of levies and fees.
- Provide comprehensive secretariat and advisory services to the Authority Board.
- Perform any other duties assigned from time to time by the Authority.
Requirements
- A minimum qualification of a Master’s Degree and a Bachelor’s Degree, obtained from an education institution accredited or recognized under the National Council for Higher Education Act, in one of the following fields:
Supply Chain Management
Finance
Economics
Engineering
Accountancy
Commerce
Law
Administration - Must be a paid-up member of CIPS/MIPS or any related professional body.
- A minimum of ten (10) years’ proven managerial experience at senior/executive management level.
- Demonstrable expertise and work experience in procurement.
- Must not hold a political office.
- Must have a clean record of professional integrity and no history of debarment or disciplinary action.
- Strategic management; strong analytical and organizational skills; ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
- Good knowledge of Malawi Government’s Public Finance policies and strategies, especially as they relate to management of funds, property, and disposal of assets.
- Thorough knowledge of audit and compliance procedures and guidelines.
- Strong interpersonal, leadership, and negotiation skills with the ability to lead, coach, and develop employees.
- Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written).
- Computer literacy and ability to work effectively with modern information and communication technology.
How to Apply
A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Certified copies of academic and professional certificates.
Names and contact details of at least three (3) traceable referees.
Applications should be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked:
“APPLICATION FOR DIRECTOR GENERAL – PPDA”
and addressed to:
The Comptroller of Statutory Corporations
P.O. Box 30061
Capital City, Lilongwe 3.
Closing Date: 24th July, 2026.
Only shortlisted applicants will be acknowledged.
PPDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, nationality, ethnic or social origin, disability, property, birth, marital or other status or family responsibilities.
About the Company
The Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Authority (PPDA) stands as a vital statutory body in Malawi, established under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Act of 2017. Its core mandate involves regulating, monitoring, and overseeing all public procurement and asset disposal processes across the country. The PPDA diligently works to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency in how public funds are utilized by various procuring and disposing entities in Malawi. Through its comprehensive oversight and capacity-building initiatives, the Authority plays a crucial role in fostering good governance and promoting fair competition within the Malawian public sector.
Ensuring transparency and efficiency in Malawi's public procurement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and experience required for the Director General role at the PPDA in Malawi?
Candidates typically need a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Business Administration, Public Policy, Law, or Economics from a recognized institution. Extensive senior management experience, preferably within public sector procurement or regulatory bodies in Malawi, is crucial for this high-level position. Professional certifications in procurement or project management are also highly advantageous and often expected.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of a Director General at the PPDA in Malawi?
Day-to-day involves strategic oversight of national public procurement policies, ensuring compliance, and managing a large team responsible for regulatory enforcement. Key challenges include navigating complex legal frameworks, addressing public scrutiny, and driving reforms to enhance transparency and efficiency in procurement processes across various government entities. Engaging with stakeholders and reporting to the Authority's Board are also critical aspects.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a Director General within a regulatory body like the PPDA in Malawi?
The work culture is generally formal, professional, and highly focused on governance, compliance, and public service delivery. Expectations include strong ethical leadership, accountability, strategic thinking, and the ability to operate effectively within a sometimes bureaucratic public sector environment while upholding national integrity. Building strong relationships with government ministries and agencies, as well as the private sector, is paramount.
What realistic career progression or growth paths are available after serving as Director General of the PPDA in Malawi?
After this esteemed role, individuals often transition to high-level consultancy roles for international organizations focused on governance, public finance management, or anti-corruption initiatives. Other paths include board positions in public or private sector entities, or advisory roles to government on policy and regulatory matters within Malawi or the region. This position is generally considered a pinnacle in public service regulatory careers.
What kind of benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can one expect as Director General of a parastatal like the PPDA in Malawi?
The Director General position typically comes with a comprehensive benefits package, including substantial annual leave, robust medical aid coverage for the incumbent and their immediate family, and a generous contributory pension scheme. Other potential benefits might include an official vehicle, housing allowance, and professional development opportunities, reflecting the seniority of the role. These packages are designed to attract highly qualified and experienced professionals to public service.
How should one approach the application process for such a high-level role in Malawi, and what do employers typically look for?
Applications usually require a detailed curriculum vitae, a compelling cover letter outlining strategic vision for public procurement in Malawi, and often proof of relevant academic qualifications and extensive experience. Employers seek demonstrable leadership, unimpeachable integrity, a deep understanding of public procurement law, and a proven track record of successful regulatory oversight and institutional development. Networking within relevant government and parastatal circles can also be beneficial in understanding the sector's needs.