About the Role
Our client, a thriving community foundation focused on economic empowerment in **Welkom, Free State**, is seeking a strategic and relationship-driven Partnership Development Manager. This role is central to expanding our network of collaborators, forging new alliances with businesses, government agencies, and other non-profits to amplify our impact. You will be responsible for identifying, nurturing, and managing strategic partnerships that drive our mission forward, securing resources, and enhancing program delivery throughout the **Free State**. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional networking skills, a strong understanding of the local economic landscape, and a passion for community upliftment. This is a prime opportunity to shape the collaborative ecosystem supporting development in **Welkom**.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify, cultivate, and secure new strategic partnerships with corporations, government bodies, educational institutions, and other non-profit organizations in **Welkom** and the broader **Free State**.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive partnership strategy aligned with the organization's goals.
- Manage existing partnerships, ensuring mutually beneficial relationships and ongoing collaboration.
- Negotiate and formalize partnership agreements, outlining roles, responsibilities, and expected outcomes.
- Represent the organization at business networking events, conferences, and community forums.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure effective integration of partners into program activities.
- Track partnership performance, measure impact, and provide regular reports to leadership.
- Identify opportunities for joint initiatives, resource sharing, and co-funding.
- Stay informed about regional economic development trends and potential partnership opportunities in **Welkom**.
- Act as a key liaison, building trust and fostering strong working relationships with all partners.
Requirements
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in partnership development, business development, corporate relations, or a similar role, preferably within the non-profit or community development sector.
- Proven track record of successfully building and managing strategic alliances.
- Exceptional networking, communication, and negotiation skills.
- Strong understanding of the economic and social landscape of **Welkom** and the **Free State**.
- Ability to develop and implement strategic plans.
- Experience in proposal development and grant writing is advantageous.
- Proficiency in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.
- Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Willingness to travel within the **Free State** as required.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on community economic development.
- Professional development and networking opportunities.
- Work within a collaborative and mission-driven organization.
- Exposure to diverse sectors and influential stakeholders in **Welkom**.
- Supportive work environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Contribute to tangible positive change in the **Free State**.
- Company-provided mobile phone and laptop.