Dr VJ Mthembu assumed duties as the Municipal Manager of Amajuba District Municipality at the beginning of January 2007. He has been a Director of Corporate Services at Um khanyakude District Municipality. He worked for the government and the private sector for a number of years before joining the Local Government. He has worked for the Department of Post and Telecommunications, Richards Bay Minerals, Standard Bank, University of Zululand, Department of Education and Umkhanyakude District Municipality.

Dr Mthembu holds a number of Diplomas that he obtained from various institutions and he also studied at the University of Zululand and Durban Westville. He has an extensive experience in management. His qualifications coupled with managerial experience make him a valuable asset to Amajuba District Municipality.

As a person who studied Local Government and Politics as well as a Performance Management Specialist, his point of departure is clear. He has mentioned that he will concentrate on the following in order to improve service delivery in the district:

• will make an enabling environment for Local Economic Development
• improve communication between the Local and the District Municipalities
• conduct an effective customer satisfaction survey
• ensure that the employees conduct themselves in a professional manner
• implement effective and efficient Performance Management System
• ensure that there is a sound councilor and staff development programme
• strengthen the relationship between the local Traditional Leadership and the District Municipality
• improve the participation of the community in the affairs and decision making of the District

Introspection, singing, going to church and reading are his hobbies.