Senior Management Consultant - Rural Development Strategy

Placements24; O Mente; Hybrid; EUR 49,000 - 81,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development opportunities

Competitive salary package

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Management Consultant to lead rural development strategy in South Africa, focusing on economic growth, job creation and community upliftment. You will collaborate with government, NGOs and private sector partners to design and implement high-impact initiatives in rural areas.

The role requires strong expertise in economic development, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and project management, with a deep awareness of socio-economic challenges in rural

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Development Economics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or related social science.
• 6+ years in economic development, strategic planning, or consulting in rural contexts.
• Experience developing and managing development projects or programs.
• Strong understanding of rural economies and poverty-reduction strategies.
• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to engage diverse stakeholders including community leaders and government officials.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and presentation skills.
• Experience in Eastern Cape or similar rural environments is advantageous.
• Proficiency in project management and M&E frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct socio-economic assessments and feasibility studies for rural development projects.
• Develop strategic plans and investment frameworks for economic diversification and job creation.
• Facilitate multi-stakeholder consultations and build consensus among diverse groups.
• Manage the implementation of rural development projects, ensuring objectives and timelines.
• Advise clients on funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships.
• Analyze market opportunities for local products and services; support value chain development.
• Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track impact and sustainability.
• Prepare proposals, reports, and presentations for stakeholders.
• Stay informed about policies and trends related to rural development in South Africa.

Skills

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Development Economics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or related social science field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialized management consultancy, is seeking a Senior Management Consultant to focus on rural development strategy in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. This impactful role involves working with government agencies, NGOs, and private sector entities to foster sustainable economic growth, job creation, and community development in rural areas. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing strategic initiatives tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities present in **Eastern Cape**'s rural landscapes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in economic development, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and project management, with a deep understanding of socio-economic challenges in rural settings. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your consulting expertise to make a meaningful difference in community upliftment. We are looking for a passionate and experienced consultant dedicated to driving positive change.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct socio-economic assessments and feasibility studies for rural development projects.


• Develop strategic plans and investment frameworks for economic diversification and job creation in rural communities.


• Facilitate multi-stakeholder consultations and build consensus among diverse groups, including local communities, government, and private sector partners.


• Manage the implementation of rural development projects, ensuring alignment with objectives and timelines.


• Advise clients on funding opportunities, grant applications, and partnership development.


• Analyze market opportunities for local products and services, supporting value chain development.


• Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track the impact and sustainability of development initiatives.


• Prepare compelling proposals, reports, and presentations for various stakeholders.


• Stay informed about policies and trends related to rural development, agriculture, and community upliftment in South Africa.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Development Economics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related social science field.


• Minimum of 6 years of experience in economic development, strategic planning, or consulting, with a focus on rural contexts.


• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing development projects or programs.


• Strong understanding of rural economies, poverty reduction strategies, and community-based development models.


• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.


• Proven ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including community leaders and government officials.


• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and presentation skills.


• Experience working within the Eastern Cape region or similar rural environments is highly advantageous.


• Proficiency in project management and M&E frameworks.


• A commitment to social impact and sustainable development principles.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, reflective of the seniority and impact of this role. You will have the opportunity to work on highly rewarding projects that directly contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of rural communities. Professional development opportunities, including specialized training in development economics and project management, are provided. The role offers a chance to build a strong network within the development sector and gain invaluable experience in rural transformation. We foster a collaborative and mission-driven work environment, supporting work-life balance and personal growth. Be part of a team dedicated to creating sustainable change and improving lives.