Project Manager - Rural Development Initiatives

Placements24; O Mente; Hybrid; EUR 32,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Project Manager for a non-profit focused on community upliftment in the Queenstown region. The role blends remote flexibility with essential on-site engagement to lead education, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives.

You will manage a portfolio from planning through to completion, lead cross-functional teams, monitor progress, and report to management and donors. A four-year PM track record and a related bachelor’s degree are required; experience in the

Qualifications

• 4+ years of project management experience in non-profit or social impact.
• Experience in education, infrastructure or economic development projects.
• Bachelor's degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration or related field.
• Experience in the Eastern Cape area is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, execution, and completion of rural development projects.
• Develop detailed project plans with scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and budgets.
• Manage resources including staff, volunteers, and external partners.
• Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure effective communication among project teams, stakeholders, and community members.
• Manage budgets and financial reporting with transparency and accountability.
• Facilitate community engagement and ensure projects meet local needs and aspirations.
• Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks for project impact assessment.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and funding requirements.
• Prepare regular project reports for management, donors, and relevant authorities.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in Development Studies / Social Sciences / Public Administration

Tools

MS Project

Asana

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a non-profit organization dedicated to community upliftment and sustainable development, is seeking a dedicated Project Manager to lead impactful initiatives in the Queenstown, Eastern Cape region. This role involves managing a portfolio of projects focused on areas such as education, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. The position operates on a hybrid model, offering a mix of remote work flexibility and essential on-site engagement within the community. The ideal candidate will possess a strong commitment to social development, excellent organizational skills, and a proven ability to manage projects from planning through to successful completion. This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute directly to positive change in the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, execution, and completion of various rural development projects.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and budgets.
• Manage project resources, including staff, volunteers, and external partners.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration among project teams, stakeholders, and community members.
• Manage project budgets and financial reporting, ensuring transparency and accountability.
• Facilitate community engagement and ensure projects meet local needs and aspirations.
• Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks for project impact assessment.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and funding requirements.
• Prepare regular project reports for management, donors, and relevant authorities.

Requirements

• A minimum of 4 years of experience in project management, preferably within the non-profit, community development, or social impact sector.
• Proven experience in managing projects related to education, infrastructure, or economic development.
• Strong understanding of rural development principles and community engagement strategies.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time-management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana) and standard office software.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working in the Eastern Cape region is a significant advantage.
• Ability to work effectively within a hybrid model in the Queenstown area.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a strong sense of purpose and impact.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and opportunities for professional development in project management and community development.
• Employees enjoy generous annual leave and a supportive work environment focused on making a difference.