Community Programme Manager

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Capacity building

Mission-driven organisation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Community Programme Manager to lead and oversee impactful community development initiatives in East London, Eastern Cape. You will plan, implement, and monitor programmes, manage budgets, and lead a team to deliver meaningful social outcomes.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in a relevant field and at least 5 years of programme management experience in the non-profit sector, with strong leadership and monitoring skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years experience in programme management, preferably in non-profit/community development.
• Proven track record of managing projects, budgets and teams.
• Strong understanding of community development principles and participatory approaches.
• Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and software.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation of programmes.
• Ability to work in East London and the Eastern Cape region.

Responsibilities

• Oversee development, implementation and evaluation of community programmes.
• Manage programme budgets with efficient allocation and oversight.
• Lead, mentor and manage programme officers and support staff.
• Build and maintain relationships with community members, gov, NGOs and stakeholders.
• Identify community needs and develop relevant programme strategies.
• Ensure programmes align with mission and strategic objectives.
• Monitor progress, collect data and prepare reports for management and funders.
• Facilitate community consultations and participatory planning.
• Manage risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Represent the organisation at community forums and external meetings.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Budget management

Monitoring & evaluation

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Negotiation

Travel readiness

Education

Master's degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration

Tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and dynamic Community Programme Manager to lead impactful initiatives in East London, Eastern Cape. This role is responsible for the planning, implementation, and oversight of various community development programmes aimed at enhancing social well‑well-being and addressing local needs. You will work closely with community stakeholders, manage project budgets, lead a team of programme staff, and ensure the effective delivery of services across East London. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, excellent project management skills, and a deep understanding of community dynamics and development principles within the Eastern Cape context.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of community programmes.
• Manage programme budgets, ensuring efficient allocation and responsible financial oversight.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of programme officers and support staff.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community members, local government, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
• Identify community needs and develop relevant programme strategies and interventions.
• Ensure programmes align with the organisation's mission and strategic objectives.
• Monitor programme progress, collect data, and prepare comprehensive reports for management and funders.
• Facilitate community consultations and participatory planning processes.
• Manage risks associated with programme activities and develop mitigation strategies.
• Represent the organisation at community forums and external meetings.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in programme management, preferably within the non‑profit or community development sector.
• Proven track record of successfully managing projects, budgets, and teams.
• Strong understanding of community development principles, social issues, and participatory approaches.
• Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and software.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation of programmes.
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse and dynamic community environment in East London.
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making capabilities.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Eastern Cape region.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead and shape impactful community development programmes in East London.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility.
• Professional development opportunities and capacity building.
• Be part of a mission‑driven organisation dedicated to social change.