About the Organisation
The CGSO is an Industry Ombud Scheme accredited in terms of section 82 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2008 (CPA). It is responsible for implementing the Consumer Goods and Services Industry Code of Conduct (CGCSI Code) that applies to the consumer goods and services industry. The CGSI Code was promulgated by Minister of Trade and Industry on the 29th of April 2015. As a result, it is compulsory for qualifying participants to subscribe to the CGSO and comply with CGSI Code.
The CGSO is responsible for providing alternative dispute resolution services as envisaged in section 70(1) of the CPA. In addition, it is required to offer guidance to participants in the industry as to the implementation of and compliance with the CGCSI Code as well as fair business practices to be followed when operating within the industry.
About the Job
The Consumer Body Representative serves as a Non-Executive Board Member of the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO), providing strategic oversight and governance while representing consumer interests. The role contributes to the promotion of consumer rights, consumer protection, and fair business practices within the consumer goods and services sector. Board members provide leadership on governance, risk, ethics, compliance, and stakeholder engagement, while helping to ensure that the CGSO fulfils its mandate as an independent dispute resolution body in accordance with the Consumer Protection Act and the Consumer Goods and Services Industry Code of Conduct.
Key Responsibilities
Perform all such things that may be authorised and required from time to time to promote the principal objects of the Company, including but not limited to the maintenance of the reputation of the Company;
Appoint and assess the performance of the Ombudsman and the CEO in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Conduct, and any approved key performance indicators (KPI);
Act as the focal point for and custodian of corporate governance by managing its relationship with management, the participants and other stakeholders of the Company along sound corporate governance principles;
Provide effective leadership on an ethical foundation;
Ensure that the Company is and is seen to be a responsible corporate citizen by having regard to not only the financial aspects of the business of the Company, but also the impact that business operations have on the environment and the society within which it operates;
Ensure that the Company’s ethics are managed effectively;
Ensure that the Company has an effective and independent audit committee;
Be responsible for the governance of risk;
Be responsible for information and technology governance;
Ensure that the Company complies with applicable laws and considers adherence to non-binding rules and standards;
Ensure that there is an effective risk-based internal audit;
Appreciate that stakeholder’s perceptions affect the Company’s reputation;
Ensure the integrity of the Company’s external reports, particularly the integrated report;
Commence business rescue proceedings as soon as the Company is financially distressed; and
The Board should do everything necessary to fulfil its role set out above.
Requirements
Demonstrate a strong commitment to consumer protection and the promotion of consumer rights.
Represent, or have represented, a recognised consumer organisation, consumer advocacy group, civil society organisation, or similar body that advocates for consumers and their rights.
Have extensive experience in consumer-related matters, including consumer education, advocacy, policy development.
Possess a sound understanding of consumer protection legislation and regulatory frameworks, particularly the Consumer Protection Act, 2008 (CPA).
Have knowledge of consumer issues affecting the consumer goods and services industry.
Demonstrate strong leadership, governance, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Have a strategic mindset and experience serving in senior leadership positions and/or as a Non-Executive Director.
Have knowledge and expertise in corporate governance principles, including the King V Report on Corporate Governance and directors’ fiduciary responsibilities
To apply
Candidates applying for this role must be willing to commit time and participate in all 4 quarterly board meetings and 3 committee meetings (where applicable).
To apply, email your application (completed AA bio form, one page motivation letter and updated CV) [all in MS Word format]) by Friday, 10th July 2026 to melissa@actionappointments.co.za
