Program / Project Manager

Johannesburg, South Africa | Posted on 02 / 18

Are you passionate about making a living from making living in South Africa better for everyone? Then join our team of SME Development Solutionists and help us to pioneer a new, more inclusive business landscape in South Africa while creating shared value through purpose-led partnerships.

Job Description

Join us at Edge Solutions to make a meaningful impact on the growth of SMEs while working in a dynamic, collaborative environment. We offer ample opportunities for professional growth and development, empowering you to thrive in your career.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Program Manager to lead and manage impactful programmatic interventions designed to drive the growth and success of SMEs. The Program Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end delivery of programs, ensuring that all objectives are met according to sponsor client mandates and in alignment with the overarching business goals. From managing client relationships to overseeing project execution, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring program success while driving business growth.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact on small and medium enterprises across South Africa, while collaborating with an innovative team at Edge Solutions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Client Relationship Management (30%)
   1. Own and manage the complete client relationship lifecycle.
   2. Serve as the primary point of contact between clients, providers, and SMEs.
   3. Build strong relationships and ensure consistent and effective communication with clients.
   4. Understand client needs deeply and work closely with strategic account managers to offer tailored solutions that support client success.
   5. Resolve any delivery challenges that may arise throughout the program lifecycle.
2. Stakeholder Management (20%)
   1. Maintain strong, open communication with program funders, SMEs, and Edge Solutions management.
   2. Build and nurture relationships with stakeholders to ensure ongoing support, satisfaction, and engagement.
   3. Ensure alignment and collaboration between key stakeholders to achieve program success.
3. Program Solutioning and Delivery Management (30%)
   1. Lead the execution of program engagements, from initiation to delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
   2. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth project delivery, including Operations, BDS, and Client teams.
   3. Monitor program progress, ensure risk and issue management, and facilitate renewal conversations well before program completion.
   4. Maintain rigorous communication rhythms with all teams involved and ensure accurate documentation and reporting.
4. Product and IP Development (15%)
   1. Drive the continuous improvement of existing programs, ensuring they remain relevant and valuable to clients.
   2. Contribute to the development and execution of new products and programs.
5. Measurement and Evaluation (20%)
   1. Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure program success.
   2. Collect and analyze data on SME performance, using insights to optimize and improve program outcomes.
   3. Track program impact, reporting on both SME and client success.
   4. Own the financial performance of the program, managing budgets, tracking expenses, and ensuring cost-effective delivery.
   5. Contribute to the development of annual budgets and revenue targets.
   6. Maintain strict oversight of program financials, ensuring adherence to agreed budgets and resource allocation.

Requirements

Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Engineering, Business Management, or a related field.
2. Professional certifications in Project Management methodologies (e.g., Prince 2, PMP, MSP) are an added advantage.

Experience

1. 5 to 7 years of hands-on experience in program / project management.
2. Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
3. Experience in the financial services, consulting, or impact investment sectors is highly desirable.
4. Demonstrated success in building client relationships and managing program delivery from start to finish.

Edge Growth is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.