Program Manager - Youth Development (Durban)

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Pension plan

Paid time off

Remote-first work model

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Program Manager in Durban to oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of youth development programs. The role leads program officers and facilitators to deliver services that build life skills, education support, and vocational training for disadvantaged youth.

The ideal candidate has a Master's degree and 5+ years in program management, with strong leadership, organizational, and South Africa-specific insights into youth challenges.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Social Sciences, Education, Public Administration, or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in program management, preferably in youth development or non-profit sector.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex programs from inception to completion.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and motivating teams.
• Strong understanding of youth development principles and challenges in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of youth development programs aligned with the organization's mission.
• Manage program budgets with efficient resource allocation and financial accountability.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of program staff, fostering collaboration and high performance.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with schools, community centers, government agencies, and other organizations in Durban.
• Monitor progress, collect data, and conduct evaluations to assess impact and identify improvements.
• Prepare regular program reports for senior management, funders, and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and grant requirements.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions for youth participants as needed.
• Stay updated on best practices in youth development and non-profit program management.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Master's degree in a relevant field

Tools

MS Office

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well‑established charity focused on empowering disadvantaged youth through skills development and mentorship in Durban, KwaZulu‑Natal , is seeking a dedicated and results-oriented Program Manager. This vital role involves overseeing the strategic planning, implementation, and evaluation of our youth development programs. You will lead a team of program officers and facilitators, ensuring the effective delivery of services that equip young people with essential life skills, educational support, and vocational training. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in program management, a passion for youth empowerment, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by young people in the region. This position is based in Durban and offers a significant opportunity to shape the future of young lives. We are looking for an individual with strong leadership acumen, excellent organizational skills, and a commitment to social justice. You will play a critical role in expanding our reach and impact within the KwaZulu‑Natal province.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of youth development programs aligned with Our client's mission.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and financial accountability.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of program staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with schools, community centers, government agencies, and other relevant organizations in Durban .
• Monitor program progress, collect data, and conduct evaluations to assess impact and identify areas for improvement.
• Prepare regular program reports for senior management, funders, and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant policies, procedures, and grant requirements.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions for youth participants as needed.
• Stay updated on best practices in youth development and non‑profit program management.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Social Sciences, Education, Public Administration, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in program management, preferably within the youth development or non‑profit sector.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex programs from inception to completion.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and motivating teams.
• Strong understanding of youth development principles and challenges in South Africa .
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in project management tools and MS Office Suite.
• Experience working with diverse communities in KwaZulu‑Natal is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health insurance, a generous pension plan, and paid time off. We are committed to professional growth and provide opportunities for continuous learning, including access to specialized training and conferences. This role offers the flexibility of being remote-first, allowing for a better work-life balance while maintaining strong connections with our Durban -based operations and the communities we serve. You will be part of an impactful organization making a real difference in the lives of young people, contributing to a more equitable future.