Program Director - Social Services

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health & retirement benefits

Executive development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Program Director in Randburg, Gauteng. You will lead strategic direction for diverse social service programs, ensure high-quality service delivery, and drive fundraising and stakeholder engagement to secure sustainable impact.

The role requires a Master's degree and 10+ years in leadership within social services or non-profit management, with a strong track record in program development, budgeting, and organizational development.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership in social services or non-profit management.
• Proven track record in program development, management, and evaluation.
• Strong financial management and fundraising skills.
• Excellent leadership, team-building, and communication abilities.
• Knowledge of Gauteng social service needs and systems.
• Experience in strategic planning and organizational development.
• Ability to foster relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all social service programs.
• Oversee program development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Manage budgets, ensuring financial accountability and sustainability.
• Lead, mentor, and develop program staff and teams.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, partners, and funders.
• Ensure programs comply with all relevant regulations and standards.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in service delivery.
• Represent the organization in community forums and at external events.
• Develop and execute fundraising strategies to support program initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Fundraising

Financial management

Communication

Stakeholder management

Program evaluation

Team development

Education

Master's degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent social services charity in Randburg, Gauteng, is looking for a highly experienced and strategic Program Director. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, operational management, and overall effectiveness of our diverse social service programs. You will lead a team of dedicated professionals, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services that meet the needs of the Randburg community and beyond. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of social service delivery, and a proven ability to manage complex operations, secure funding, and foster impactful partnerships. This is a critical role for an ambitious leader passionate about driving positive social change.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all social service programs.
• Oversee program development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring financial accountability and sustainability.
• Lead, mentor, and develop program staff and teams.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, partners, and funders.
• Ensure programs comply with all relevant regulations and standards.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in service delivery.
• Represent the organization in community forums and at external events.
• Develop and execute fundraising strategies to support program initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in social services or non-profit management.
• Demonstrated success in program development, management, and evaluation.
• Strong financial management and fundraising skills.
• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and communication abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of social service systems and community needs in Gauteng.
• Experience in strategic planning and organizational development.
• Ability to foster collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven track record of managing complex projects and initiatives.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and life insurance.
• Generous vacation and leave policy.
• Opportunities for advanced professional development and executive training.
• Significant influence and impact on the organization's mission and strategic direction.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work-life balance.