Biography
Puleng Patricia Dimpane was born in Mahikeng in the North West Province and has risen to become one of the most accomplished leaders within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
At 49, she made history as the first female officer to occupy the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in SAPS — a milestone that reflects both her expertise and her trailblazing leadership.
Lieutenant General Dimpane currently oversees the Finance and Administration Division of SAPS. She is a seasoned senior manager with over 23 years of experience in the Public Service, including 18 years at senior management level.
Her career began in 2002 when she joined the Public Service as an assistant state accountant. Over the years, she built extensive experience in auditing, accounting, and governance across several key provincial departments, including the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Provincial Treasury, Department of Health, and the National Department of Education.
In 2007, she joined SAPS as a Senior Superintendent, taking responsibility for Internal Audit in the Free State Province. Her consistent performance and leadership saw her rise through the ranks to become Provincial Head for Finance and Administration at Brigadier level.
After six years in that role, she was appointed Chief Financial Officer at the Department of Economic Development and Tourism in the Free State. She later returned to SAPS, serving as Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Asset Management before being promoted in 2019 to Divisional Commissioner: Financial Management Services.
Lieutenant General Dimpane holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Auditing and Accounting, as well as an Honours degree in Business Administration. She has further strengthened her expertise through various programmes in strategic management and leadership.
Renowned for her professionalism, integrity, and deep understanding of governance, she has played a key role in improving SAPS financial reporting — achieving consistent positive outcomes over five consecutive years. She also serves on several boards and sub-committees, contributing her expertise beyond policing.
As Acting Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Dimpane represents a new chapter of disciplined leadership, accountability, and transformation within SAPS.
