Program Director - Youth Development

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive executive salary

Pension fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Program Director for Youth Development to lead strategic direction, design, and implementation of all youth initiatives in Gauteng. You will oversee budgets, mentor staff, and build strong partnerships with schools and government agencies to maximize impact.

The role requires a Master's or PhD in a related field and 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in youth development or non-profit administration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in a related field and at least 7–10 years in youth development or non-profit leadership.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, program design, implementation, and evaluation.
• Strong understanding of adolescent development and safeguarding.
• Budget oversight and financial stewardship experience.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all youth programs in Pretoria and surrounding areas.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate program goals aligned with the organization's mission.
• Manage program budgets and ensure efficient resource allocation.
• Lead and mentor a team of program staff and coordinators.
• Forge partnerships with schools, government agencies, and community organizations.
• Oversee delivery of engaging youth activities, including education, life skills, and vocational training.
• Ensure programs are evidence-based, culturally relevant, and responsive to youth needs.
• Monitor outcomes and use data to drive improvement and impact.
• Represent the organization at external meetings and conferences.
• Stay updated with research and best practices in youth development.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Budget management

Team management

Communication skills

Partnership building

Data analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Social Work/ Psychology/ Education/ Public Administration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking non-profit organization focused on empowering disadvantaged youth in Pretoria , is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Program Director - Youth Development . This senior leadership role is responsible for the strategic direction, implementation, and overall success of all youth development initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of adolescent psychology, evidence-based youth engagement strategies, and a strong commitment to fostering positive social change. You will lead a dedicated team, manage budgets, and forge crucial partnerships to maximize the impact of our client's programs across Gauteng . This is a significant leadership opportunity to shape the future of young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all youth development programs in Pretoria and surrounding areas.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate program goals, objectives, and strategies aligned with the organization's mission.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring financial stewardship and efficient resource allocation.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of program staff and coordinators.
• Foster strong collaborative relationships with community stakeholders, schools, government agencies, and partner organizations.
• Oversee the development and delivery of innovative and impactful youth engagement activities, including educational, life skills, and vocational training components.
• Ensure programs are evidence-based, culturally relevant, and responsive to the needs of the youth served.
• Monitor program outcomes and impact, utilizing data to inform decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Represent the organization at external meetings, conferences, and public forums.
• Stay current with research and best practices in youth development and non-profit management.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive leadership experience in youth development, program management, or non-profit administration.
• Proven track record in strategic planning, program design, implementation, and evaluation.
• Strong understanding of adolescent development, risk factors, and protective factors.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management and financial oversight.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and public speaking abilities.
• Experience in building and maintaining partnerships with diverse stakeholders in Pretoria.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
• A deep commitment to social justice and empowering young people.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid, a generous pension fund, and substantial annual leave. We invest in our leaders' growth through extensive professional development opportunities and provide a collaborative and mission-driven work environment. This is a chance to lead impactful programs in Gauteng and significantly contribute to youth empowerment.