Community Sports Development Officer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Community Sports Development Officer to promote participation across diverse groups in the Western Cape, focusing on Paarl. You will design and implement programs, build partnerships with schools, clubs and local government, and mentor coaches to grow grassroots sport.

The role requires strong project management, effective communication, and a passion for healthy, inclusive communities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in community development, sports development or a related field.
• Strong understanding of grassroots sports, participation strategies and inclusive practices.
• Excellent project management, organizational and planning skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication and negotiation abilities.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship building.
• Knowledge of funding acquisition and grant writing is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends to engage with the community in Paarl, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for community sports development, targeting under-represented groups and underserved areas.
• Organize and deliver sports programs and events to increase participation and engagement.
• Build and maintain relationships with schools, clubs, local government and community leaders.
• Identify funding opportunities and assist in writing grant proposals.
• Support and mentor local sports clubs and organizations to enhance capacity and sustainability.
• Promote physical activity and sports participation through outreach campaigns.
• Manage program budgets with financial accountability.
• Monitor and evaluate impact and report outcomes with improvements.
• Facilitate training and development for coaches, volunteers and sports leaders.
• Ensure activities comply with health, safety and safeguarding policies.

Skills

Community development

Sports development

Project management

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Sports Management or related qualification

Community Development related qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a passionate and community-focused Community Sports Development Officer to promote and expand sports participation across various demographics in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is instrumental in fostering a love for sports, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and building stronger communities through accessible and inclusive sports programs. The officer will work closely with local schools, sports clubs, community centres, and individuals to identify needs, develop new initiatives, and support existing sports activities. The ideal candidate will possess strong project management skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of grassroots sports development. We are looking for an energetic and proactive individual committed to making a positive impact on the health and social well-being of the Paarl community. This position offers a fulfilling opportunity to shape the future of sports at a local level.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for community sports development, targeting under-represented groups and underserved areas.
• Organize and deliver a range of sports programs and events designed to increase participation and engagement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local stakeholders, including schools, clubs, local government, and community leaders.
• Identify funding opportunities and assist in writing grant proposals to secure resources for sports initiatives.
• Support and mentor local sports clubs and organizations to enhance their capacity and sustainability.
• Promote the benefits of physical activity and sports participation through outreach and awareness campaigns.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources and financial accountability.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of sports development programs, reporting on outcomes and recommending improvements.
• Facilitate training and development opportunities for coaches, volunteers, and sports leaders within the community.
• Ensure all activities comply with relevant health, safety, and safeguarding policies.

Requirements

• Proven experience in community development, sports development, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of grassroots sports, participation strategies, and inclusive practices.
• Excellent project management, organizational, and planning skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation abilities.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship building.
• Knowledge of funding acquisition and grant writing is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• A relevant qualification in Sports Management, Community Development, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required to engage with the community in Paarl, Western Cape .
• A passion for sport and its power to transform lives and communities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the Paarl community. This role provides the satisfaction of fostering a vibrant sports culture and improving the quality of life through physical activity and community engagement.