Executive Director

Action Appointments Development Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; Mtunzini; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A non-profit organization is seeking an Executive Director to lead strategic growth and ensure financial sustainability. The role requires a strong leader with at least 8-10 years of experience in the non-profit sector, exceptional communication skills, and a background in agricultural and rural development. The position is based in Mtunzini, KwaZulu-Natal, and applications are open until May 23, 2025.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8-10 years of senior leadership experience in a non-profit or social enterprise.
• Fluency in English and basic understanding of isiZulu/isiXhosa.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve organizational goals.
• Oversee financial strategy and ensure compliance.
• Lead fundraising efforts and cultivate donor relationships.
• Serve as chief spokesperson and advocate for the organization.

Skills

Strategic planning

Financial management

Public speaking

Stakeholder engagement

Fundraising

Education

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

The Siyazisiza Trust is a non-profit social enterprise established in 1987. We work with small-scale farmers and agricultural enterprises across South Africa to improve their livelihoods, food security, and environment. Through partnerships with both the Government and the Private sector, we strive to find effective ways to combat poverty and food insecurity and to diversify rural household livelihood strategies. Operating from our Food Hub in Mtunzini, Kwazulu-Natal, we currently provide support to farmers in Kwazulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Mpumalanga.

About the Job

The ED of Siyazisiza Trust will serve as the organization’s visionary leader, responsible for driving strategic growth, strengthening financial sustainability, and expanding impact across rural communities. The ED will report directly to the Board of Trustees and work closely with the management team to inspire a culture of innovation, foster partnerships, and ensure operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
  • Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve organisational goals and mission, ensuring alignment with the Board’s vision and priorities.
  • Identify and pursue new opportunities for organizational growth and programme development.
  • Build and maintain key relationships with public and private sector, donors, and other stakeholders to strengthen the organization’s position and impact.
• Financial Management and Fundraising
  • Oversee financial strategy, including budgeting, cash flow, and resource allocation, to ensure long-term financial health and sustainability.
  • Work with the finance team to develop annual budgets, financial reports, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
  • Lead fundraising efforts, including cultivating relationships with major donors and securing funding.
• Board Governance
  • Collaborate with the Board of Trustees, providing timely and accurate information to support effective decision-making.
  • Participate in Board meetings, present organizational updates, and provide strategic guidance.
  • Implement Board policies, support Board committees, and foster productive Board relationships.
• Programme and Operations Management
  • Oversee all aspects of programme development and delivery, ensuring programmes meet the needs of the communities served and expectations of the donor.
  • Guide department heads in setting project priorities, measuring outcomes, and implementing performance management systems.
  • Ensure operations are efficient, scalable, and aligned with the strategic goals of the Organization.
• Staff Leadership and Development
  • Provide inspirational leadership to foster a positive work culture, encouraging collaboration and professional growth.
  • Oversee recruitment, retention, and professional development of staff, promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
  • Set performance expectations, conduct regular evaluations, and provide feedback to ensure team members have the resources they need to succeed.
  • Manage and mentor senior management staff to ensure organisational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Public Representation and Advocacy
  • Serve as the chief spokesperson for Siyazisiza Trust, representing the organization at public events, conferences, and media engagements.
  • Build and maintain high visibility and strong relationships within the public, donor, and partner communities.
  • Advocate for the organization’s mission, influencing public opinion and engaging stakeholders in meaningful ways.
• Compliance and Risk Management
  • Oversee risk management, ensuring compliance with legal, ethical, and operational standards.
  • Ensure the organization adheres to all tax, regulatory, and reporting requirements.
  • Manage organizational risks and develop policies that uphold health, safety, and ethical standards.
  • Oversee the Trust’s continuity and disaster recovery strategy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Non-profit Management, Business Administration, Rural Development, Social Sciences, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

Fluency in English and, ideally, at least a basic understanding of isiZulu/isiXhosa.

Valid driver’s license.

Minimum 8-10 years of senior leadership experience in a non-profit or social enterprise, preferably within rural development or agriculture-focused organisations.

Experience and understanding of agriculture and food systems, agroecology, seed systems, climate change and agricultural biodiversity.

Skills and Attributes

Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans.

Strong financial and business acumen, with experience in managing budgets and overseeing financial operations.

Strong business development and programme design skills.

Exceptional communication and public speaking skills, with extensive experience in stakeholder engagement.

Demonstrated success in fundraising and business development.

Commitment to inclusive leadership and staff development.

Working knowledge of BB-BEE codes will be an added advantage.

To apply

In order to apply, email your application by Friday 23rd May 2025 to [e-mail] - send your completed AA bio form, letter of motivation and updated CV (all in MS Word format).