Program Manager - Youth Empowerment

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 750,000 - 1,050,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead youth empowerment initiatives in the Western Cape. You will guide strategic development, oversee implementation, and ensure programs are impactful and sustainable for underprivileged youth in Cape Town.

You will manage a team of program officers, build partnerships with schools and NGOs, and drive reporting to donors. A strong commitment to inclusion and equity is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in Social Work, Development Studies, Education, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive program management experience in nonprofit/development.
• Proven track record in designing and managing youth-focused programs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design, implementation, and evaluation of youth empowerment programs.
• Manage program budgets with strong financial accountability.
• Lead, mentor, and supervise program staff to build a high-performing team.
• Develop and strengthen partnerships with schools, government bodies, and NGOs in Cape Town.
• Conduct needs assessments and address gaps in youth services.
• Ensure activities comply with policies and funding requirements.
• Monitor progress, collect data, and prepare reports for stakeholders.
• Represent the organization in forums and advocate for youth development.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Budgeting

Partnership development

M&E frameworks

Data analysis

Communication

Afrikaans/ isiXhosa (advantage)

Education

Master's degree in Social Work / Development Studies / Education

Tools

MS Office

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected charitable organization focused on empowering underprivileged youth in Cape Town , is seeking an experienced and visionary Program Manager. This critical position involves leading the strategic development, implementation, and oversight of all youth empowerment initiatives across the Western Cape. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring programs are impactful, sustainable, and responsive to the evolving needs of the youth we serve. You will manage a dedicated team of program officers and coordinators, foster strategic partnerships with schools, community centers, and other NGOs, and oversee program budgets. This role is ideal for a leader passionate about youth development, possessing a strong understanding of the challenges faced by young people in urban and peri-urban settings. You will play a key role in shaping the future of youth in Cape Town , creating pathways to education, employment, and personal growth. A deep commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all participants is paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of youth empowerment programs.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation and financial accountability.
• Lead, mentor, and supervise program staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Develop and strengthen partnerships with educational institutions, government bodies, and other non-profit organizations in Cape Town .
• Conduct needs assessments and develop strategies to address identified gaps in youth services.
• Ensure program activities comply with organizational policies and funding requirements.
• Monitor program progress, collect data, and prepare comprehensive reports for stakeholders and donors.
• Represent the organization in relevant forums and advocate for youth development issues.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Social Work, Development Studies, Education, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of progressive experience in program management within the non-profit or development sector, with a specific focus on youth.
• Proven track record in developing and managing successful youth-focused programs.
• Strong leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Excellent understanding of the socio-economic challenges facing youth in Cape Town and South Africa.
• Exceptional networking and partnership-building abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software and M&E frameworks.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Afrikaans (or isiXhosa) will be advantageous.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from to R per annum, dependent on experience.

• medical aid
• a retirement annuity
• paid time off
• excellent opportunities for professional development, including workshops and further training.
• Working in Cape Town , you will be part of a mission-driven organization making a significant impact on the lives of young people.