JOB DESCRIPTION: DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT / MEMBER OF THE PROVINCIAL LEGISLATURE

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1 JOB DESCRIPTION: DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT / MEMBER OF THE PROVINCIAL LEGISLATURE This job description should be read with the Democratic Alliance Code for Public Representatives and the Values, Attitudes and Behaviours Statement for DA Public Representatives. JOB TITLE Member of Parliament Member of Provincial Legislature INTRODUCTION The role of Democratic Alliance Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Provincial Legislatures (MPLs) are set out in this job description. MPs and MPLs (MP/Ls) are elected representatives of all the people in their allocated area. The job has five key results areas: To fulfil party political duties and represent local voter and community interests To champion and implement Democratic Alliance policy To provide political leadership, support and guidance to Councillors and DA members in an allocated area To participate in learning & development and performance management processes To (where in office) fulfil agreed executive functions The MP/L job description has many areas. These areas are set out in detail in this document. It is clearly impossible to fulfil all the requirements of the job description to the fullest extent on a continuous basis. So, to give MPs and MPLs specific focus and to manage workload, each MP/L agrees a set of annual objectives (aligned with this job description) with leadership. This is called the Performance Development Management System (PDMS) annual review. Within this, specific objectives will be shaped for MP/Ls based on local needs and individual circumstances. This notwithstanding, an MP or MPL is expected to work lengthy hours and over weekends and public holidays. REPORTING There are different spheres of government and party structure. MP/Ls are responsible for being clear on their leadership structure and who they report to. MP/Ls report to the Caucus Leadership in respect of Legislative duties. All MP/Ls report to the Regional, Provincial and Federal Leadership in respect of Constituency and Party Political Duties. Leader: Helen Zille Chairperson: Wilmot James MP 1

2 JOB OBJECTIVE To promote the principles, policies, and brand of the Democratic Alliance within the relevant Legislature and the Community by: Spearheading efforts of the Party to gain office Representing local interests and needs within legislative and oversight processes Demonstrating that the Democratic Alliance is the best option for excellent government Representing the DA to the voters in an effective, responsive and visible manner, both in Parliament/Legislature and in his or her constituency Being for the people and with the people PERSONALITY TRAITS Democratic Alliance MP/MPLs are expected to exhibit flexibility, perseverance, loyalty, discretion, team work, moral courage and integrity. 2

3 DETAILED KEY RESULTS AREAS: Fulfil Party Political Duties: Develop Positive Personal and Party Profile Develop Local Knowledge Develop Strong Relationships & Networks Fundraising and Contributions Elections, Campaigns & Recruitment Helping Voters and the Community Develop Positive Personal and Party Profile: MP/Ls are responsible for developing a positive identity both publicly and personally. This includes within the Party, the Constituency, the Province and Nationally as an individual, and as a member of the Democratic Alliance. Specifically: Driving local issues to improve the local community Promoting case studies of the DA making a positive difference Develop a strong, positive reputation for the DA Establish a strong personal reputation for sharing the DA vision Develop the trust of party members, leaders, officials and citizens Present a positive image to the community Be a law-abiding role model Develop Local Knowledge: MP/Ls are the DA s in a Constituency. They need to develop, demonstrate, and apply local knowledge. This needs to be shared with other spheres of government, where needed. It is an MP/L s responsibility to develop excellent knowledge of the Constituency and to have a deep understanding of: Local citizen issues, concerns and priorities Local communities civil society groups and their agendas / priorities Relevant Provincial and Local government, including policies, rules & procedures Constituency plans and how to lead and participate in their development Relevant Provincial and local municipality functions & services, and how well they perform Local DA branch and constituency operations and people The local opposition parties (their people and policies) How to access and apply provincial legislation and relevant municipal by-laws Develop Strong Relationships & Networks: MP/Ls should develop strong relationships within the caucus, the party, the Constituency, the Province and the municipalities in their area. MP/Ls need to develop excellent relationships with their local networks..mp/ls also need do this in in any portfolios they are aligned to. Specifically, MP/Ls should: Develop excellent local networks Develop strong relationships with local contacts, advisors and experts Develop networks between government spheres & party structures Align to and support Caucus spokespersons - sharing information Share contacts and networks with DA peers Share information best practices (e.g. inter-caucus best practice) MP/Ls also need build networks aligned to any portfolios they are assigned to. Specifically this would entail: Develop excellent networks of experts in the portfolio subject Develop strong relationships with portfolio contacts, advisors and experts Develop networks between government spheres & party structures Align to and support Caucus spokespersons - sharing information Share contacts and networks with DA peers 3

4 Share information best practices (e.g. inter-caucus best practice) Fundraising and Contributions: The Democratic Alliance depends upon fundraising activities for its continued existence and growth. The more funds that are raised, the more budget is available to support excellent Party operations. MP/Ls need to look for appropriate opportunities to raise funds, including: Paying candidates fees and party contributions 1 Organising and supporting fundraising events and campaigns Nurturing DA supporters who may be prepared to donate Notifying fundraising teams where donors need leadership contact Complying with the DA fundraising policies and procedures Soliciting donations when requested by Fund Raising Department Elections, Campaigns & Recruitment: Successful election campaigns and activist recruitment are vital to growing the Democratic Alliance. MP/Ls must take part and encourage participation in all branch, constituency, regional, provincial or national campaigns and activities, including: Participating as required in by-elections and national election campaigns Canvassing voters to solicit ongoing and new support for the DA Distributing pamphlets and newsletters where necessary Growing DA voter support and strong DA Branches Recruiting and mentoring new members, candidates and activists Suggesting activities to people so that they get more involved Speaking at events, public meetings and on radio as required Supporting and organizing DA leadership events Visiting and / or inspecting local institutions and organizations Holding regular information tables Playing a leading role in planning and delivering the constituency and Provincial strategic plans and business plan Blue blitz/ blue wave activities Helping Voters and the Community: Whether in opposition, or in office, the Democratic Alliance is there to champion and support individuals in their relationship with government. It is an MP/L s duty to be for and with the community - attending conscientiously to voter queries and community representations. This includes: Being accessible to voters in person, by telephone, Providing accurate and timely feedback to queries & representations Actively pursuing issues raised by individuals and groups Reporting back to the community (via meetings, newsletters, etc.) Ensuring voter & community information is recorded in party systems Attending relevant community meetings such as civic and rate payers organizations, religious and sporting bodies and action groups when required or invited 1 Fees and Contributions are detailed in the Regulations for the Nomination of Candidates and in the DA s Financial Policy as amended from time to time 4

5 Champion Democratic Alliance Policy: Create an Open, Opportunity Society for All Know and Abide by Constitutions Understand Government, legislative and oversight processes Champion the DA s National and Provincial Manifesto Champion DA policy in portfolio or standing committees Provide effective oversight of government Where in government, participate in planning Create an Open, Opportunity Society for All: The Democratic Alliance is committed to creating an open, opportunity society for all. It is essential that MP/Ls understand, share and support this vision. Members of the DA share the same core liberal democratic beliefs. It is an MP/L s responsibility to understand and communicate this vision for the future, including: Be clear on what an Open, Opportunity Society for All means Passionately share this vision within your local community Understand how the vision translates into political policies Help others within and beyond the DA understand Identify and provide help where the vision is misunderstood Know and Abide by Constitutions: DA MP/Ls operate and exercise freedom of speech within the democratic processes of government. This requires familiarity with relevant constitutions, legislation, policies, and processes. It is an MP/L s responsibility to have a working knowledge of the South African government and party structures and to abide by their rules. This includes understanding and abiding by: The South African Constitution (esp. Chapter 7) South African Governing Structures & Processes The DA Federal Constitution The Relevant DA Provincial Constitution The DA Party Governing Structures & Processes The DA Values, Attitudes and Behaviour for Public Representatives The DA Code of Conduct for Public Representatives The DA Regulations for the Nominations of Candidates The DA MP/L Job Description Understand Government: MP/Ls operate specifically at National or Provincial government level. So it is essential that DA MP/Ls are well versed in the relevant government functions. It is an MP/L s responsibility to develop an awareness of the scope of national and provincial responsibilities. MP/Ls must understand legislation and accepted policy relevant to their portfolios. In addition, MP/Ls should have an understanding of the provisions of: The Constitution of South Africa The Electoral Act 73 of 1998 The PFMA The rules of the legislature Powers and privileges of Parliament Act PAIA PAJA Money Bills Amendment Procedure and Related Matters Act of

6 Champion the DA National Manifesto: DA policy defines an approach to delivering excellent government. This is described in the National Manifesto. It is an MP/L s responsibility to promote these policies and, where the DA has won office, to implement and govern according to them. This includes: Understanding the DA National Manifesto Knowing what other party policies are and how they differ from the DA Being able to give a compelling case for why DA policy is best Champion DA policy in portfolio committees: It is the responsibility of the MP/L to develop an expert subject knowledge in all areas covered by his/her portfolio. This includes: Developing a sound knowledge of the public policy in respect of the portfolio, relevant legislation and debates in the relevant committee/s Developing a sound knowledge of the status management of the portfolio department and the challenges of delivery Understanding and contributing to the development of DA policy positions relating to the portfolio Developing networks with stakeholders Developing networks between government spheres & party structures Actively drive relevant issues in the media Provide effective oversight of government: All DA MP/Ls need to contribute to effective oversight of government. This includes: Critically examining the government s management of the relevant ministry, department and other associated bodies with a view to identifying corruption and mismanagement Monitoring the government s implementation of policy and legislation with a view to identifying shortcomings Visiting relevant government installations to provide the DA with an on-the-ground assessment of government service delivery Submitting appropriate questions in Parliament or the Legislature Participating in Portfolio/Standing Committee Meetings and oversight visits In government: Participate in Planning: Understanding the relevant government planning and budgeting processes and ensure these processes are aligned with DA policy It is a responsibility of an MP/L to understand how government policy and plans are formulated and approved. This will help to ensure healthy party and public participation in creating appropriate approaches. This includes understanding how to access information on current policies and knowing how to source support for clarification on policy issues. Understanding the budget presented to Parliament or the legislature and how money is spent Understanding the service levels achieved in the Province or country, and in the relevant portfolio Understanding the process for creating legislation Understanding how to challenge policies and submit Private Members Bills Participating in Learning, Development and Performance Management In opposition: Understanding the relevant government planning and budgeting processes, using these to challenge the governing party and promote DA policy. 6

7 Provide Political Leadership: Lead, support and guide teams of Councillors, DA members and activists: The MP/L is the political head of a Constituency. This function requires a commitment to: Ensuring that all DA public representatives and members in the Constituency are familiar with the DA s philosophy, Brand and Communications Guide, policies and political strategic objectives Taking responsibility for political activities and the political messaging in the Constituency Constantly assessing the political developments and being able to speak authoritatively to Da members on the DA s position and response Mentoring of Councillors and other office-bearers in the Constituency Providing collegial oversight of work done by DA Councillors in the Constituency, whether in opposition or in government. This role must take into account that Councils are an independent and distinctive sphere of government. Taking responsibility for political developments in the Constituency, and drive these issues in Parliament and the legislature Providing the link to raise issues of concern in Councils within the Constituency, whether the DA is in opposition or in government Contributing to the development of Councillors and DA members Providing leadership in all party campaigns, by-elections and general elections 7

8 Leadership and development: Excellent Attendance & Participation Participation within the PDMS Process Learning, Development & Training Leadership and People Management Living our Values, Attitudes and Behaviours Attendance & Participation: Attending political meetings and performing well is central to an MP/L s performance. It is a duty to attend the meetings of all party or government structures the MP/MPLs belong to and are expected at. Structures may include the Party, Provincial, Regional, Constituency, Ward, Community, Caucus, Legislature, and other relevant bodies you are a delegate or representative for. MP/Ls should: Be very clear on the meetings he/she is expected to attend Play a proactive role - ask questions that elicit original, useful insight If representing a group, provide timely informative debriefing Escalate issues efficiently and objectively to whips or leadership Frame motions and statements that drive the DA agenda 2 Study agendas and briefing papers in advance of meetings Provide robust, constructive challenge to opposing parties, if needed Deliver articulate, persuasive speeches when required Execute any actions decided during the meeting efficiently Learning, Development & Training: The Democratic Alliance believes that everyone should strive for excellence and personal development. To support this MP/Ls participate in an annual Performance Development and Management System (PDMS). Additionally, target setting helps leadership shape their specific role. MP/Ls are responsible for proactively participating within this process and leading the project in their Constituency. This involves jointly setting and reviewing objectives and targets with Provincial, Regional and caucus leadership on an annual basis.mp/ls are responsible for keeping up with changes and for developing their skills and abilities. It is an MP/L s responsibility to take a proactive approach to learning and development, including: Attending training and learning events when nominated Identifying personal development needs from PDMS reviews Maintaining a record of training and a personal development plan Taking a proactive and motivated approach to personal development Meeting targets to the satisfaction of leadership Taking development points objectively 'Going the extra mile' to deliver with excellence Spearheading the PDMS process in the Constituency Meeting the process timetable and deadlines Using feedback to create opportunities to grow Setting appropriate targets to support the Constituency and Provincial Strategic Plans Using honest feedback to assist Councillors to grow and identifying development needs Actively participating in incapacity performance management programmes 2 Seek or follow guidance from the relevant Whip or Spokesperson if unclear on the approach 8

9 Values, Attitudes and Behaviours: The Democratic Alliance has defined values, attitudes and behaviours that are central to its culture and identity. It is the responsibility of all MP/Ls to endorse and demonstrate the values, attitudes and behaviours of the Democratic Alliance (integrity, striving for excellence, accountability, teamwork, embracing diversity and dedication to the cause). This includes: Knowing and living the DA values, attitudes and behaviours Encouraging others to adopt values, attitudes and behaviours Rewarding positive behaviour both informally, and formally Advertising DA values, attitudes and behaviours beyond the Party Providing leadership to the Councillors and members within their Constituency 9

10 FULFIL Executive Functions Executive MP/Ls 3 Good Citizen Relations & Communication Delivery of Basic Services Plans & Budgets Aligned to Policy Performance Management and Reporting Assets & Infrastructure Excellent Project & Programme Delivery Well Managed Staff and Agencies Strong Municipal Back Office Processes Effective Media & Communication of Successes Citizens and Communication: It is an MP/L s responsibility to ensure that the legislature engages effectively with citizens where the Democratic Alliance is in office. This includes: Ensuring a strong citizen service process for managing interactions Ensuring excellent municipal communication with citizens Establishing a citizen charter with a commitment to service levels Ensuring there is a functional and updated website Ensuring citizen access to appropriate information Service Delivery: The Democratic Alliance is committed to prioritising resources to achieve strong basic service delivery. This is central to proving that the Democratic Alliance is the party in South Africa that governs best. When in elected office responsibilities include: Relentlessly driving improved basic service delivery Prioritising budget allocation on basic service delivery Managing down service delivery back logs Plans, Budgets and Policy: Executive MP/Ls need to make sure they participate in a focused and strategic way on implementing DA Policy. This involves understanding and leading the municipal IDP planning and budgeting processes. It is a responsibility to: Ensure that the relevant Budget Balances Ensure Strategic Plans and Budgets are aligned to DA Policy Timely publication of quality mandatory plans and budgets Eliminating and reducing unfunded mandates Ensure effective public contributions to planning cycles Ensure quality policies and procedures, aligned to DA policy Performance Management and Reporting: Transparency and openness are core values of the Democratic Alliance. It is a responsibility to ensure that where the Democratic Alliance is in office there is rapid, accurate and objective reporting to ensure that resources are made available in areas of difficulty, decisions are effective and swift - and that opportunities are recognised and taken. This includes responsibility for: Timely and accurate reporting to Provincial & National government Accurate financial accounting and a punctual annual close Ensuring or working towards a clean Audit Participation in DA Government Monitoring and Evaluation Ensuring an effective performance management system and team Ensuring appropriate committee / governing structure 3 Executive Management responsibilities only apply directly where the DA is in office, and are the overall responsibility of the Premier or President, who may cascade responsibilities in the form of PDMS objectives to Members of the Cabinet or other MP/Ls within the Caucus, as is appropriate 10

11 Assets & Infrastructure: The assets, infrastructure and systems within government departments are critical to the successful delivery of relevant functions. They need to be maintained and managed. It is a responsibility to: Ensure strong management of assets and infrastructure Ensure there is an accurate asset register Take an active interest in maintenance of assets & infrastructure Ensure robust procurement and investment processes are in place Ensure the government and its departments have an IT strategy Project & Programme Delivery: Government Departments are constantly running programmes, projects and other initiatives. It is a responsibility to make sure that there is effective delivery management in place, and that initiatives are demonstrably aligned to DA policy, appropriately funded and managed by quality project managers. This includes: Ensuring adequate oversight of departmental programmes and projects Ensure controls are in place for appropriate approval of new initiatives Ensuring processes are in place to manage failing initiatives Staff and Agencies: The performance of legislature staff and contracted agencies underpins government success. The DA is committed to the high integrity management of people. It is a responsibility to ensure that a government department has an effective workforce, including: Ensuring that performance contracts are in place with senior staff Ensuring appropriate HR policies and procedures are in place Encouraging staff job satisfaction and good morale Ensuring vacancies, skills and resource levels are managed effectively Driving awareness and management of absence and attendance levels Ensuring effective staff performance management is in place Back Office Processes: Effective and efficient back office processes are essential to cost reduction and the smooth running of a government. It is a responsibility to ensure back-office processes within departments work efficiently, including: Proactively ensuring that processes are managed and improving Demonstrating a commitment to excellence in financial management Understanding core financial processes (AP, AR, Procurement, etc.) Media & Communication: It is essential that we communicate our success stories. Executive MP/Ls are responsible for seeking opportunities in the media and in the wider community for positive communication about the performance of their legislature. This includes: Developing effective channels with the party media team Citing objective, accurate and factual success stories Ensuring a Premier or Presidential communication support resource is in place (Approved by the Federal Executive on 19 April 2013) 11