PROFILE:
DR M.S PHERA
DIRECTOR-GENERAL
Dr Phera was born and raised in the Masilo township of Theunissen. He is a proud product of a small-town upbringing and brings with him a strong background in political and trade union activism. He entered the public service in July 1994 at the age of 21, beginning his career at entry level. As he advanced academically, he also developed organically and professionally within the ranks of public service, serving in both the Free State and the Northern Cape. In 2002, at the age of 28, he was appointed to his first senior management position and has since accumulated approximately 22 years of experience in senior and executive management service. Dr Phera, who has committed himself to the pursuit of authentic democratic governance, social justice and economic emancipation, previously served two brief stints as Acting Director-General before being appointed to a five-year term, commencing on 01 January 2026 and concluding on 31 December 2030. By profession, Dr Phera is an Advocate of the High Court, a Chartered Governance Professional, and a Chartered HR Professional, with current registration with the relevant professional bodies. He is an accomplished scholar in Governance and Law, holding qualifications that include a PhD, MA, LLM, LLB, and a BTech in Public Management, as well as several university-accredited diplomas.