Project Manager, Community Development Initiatives

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Travel allowance

Professional development opportunities

Networking with development pros

Contract extension based on funding

Job summary

Our client, a reputable non-profit organization, seeks a Project Manager to lead community development initiatives in Welkom, Free State. You will plan, execute, and monitor projects, liaising with local stakeholders to deliver tangible benefits for residents.

The role emphasizes budgeting, reporting, and compliance with funding requirements, with opportunities to meaningfully impact local infrastructure and economic growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Administration, or related field; Master's degree advantageous.
• Minimum of 5 years in project management, focusing on community development, social programs, or NGO initiatives.
• Proven track record of managing development projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of community dynamics and local governance structures.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in budget management and financial oversight for development projects.
• Experience in Welkom area or similar socio-economic contexts is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop project proposals, plans, and budgets for community development programs.
• Oversee implementation for timely and cost-effective delivery of services and infrastructure.
• Engage with community members, local leaders, government agencies, and stakeholders to build partnerships.
• Monitor progress, collect data, and report on activities, outcomes, and challenges.
• Manage resources including personnel, materials, and finances.
• Identify and mitigate project risks to ensure safety of participants.
• Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Ensure compliance with funding requirements and organizational policies.
• Evaluate impact and sustainability, recommending improvements.
• Represent the organization in public forums and community events in Free State.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Budget management

Interpersonal communication

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences or related field

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable non-profit organization focused on socio-economic upliftment, is seeking a dedicated Project Manager to lead impactful community development initiatives in Welkom, Free State. This crucial role involves planning, executing, and monitoring projects designed to improve the lives of residents, foster local economic growth, and enhance community infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have a passion for social impact, proven experience in managing development projects, and a deep understanding of community engagement. You will be responsible for liaising with local stakeholders, managing project budgets, and ensuring the successful delivery of tangible community benefits. This is a significant opportunity to drive positive change and make a lasting difference within the Welkom community.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop project proposals, plans, and budgets for community development programs in line with organizational goals.
• Oversee the implementation of projects, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of services and infrastructure improvements.
• Engage actively with community members, local leaders, government agencies, and other stakeholders to build strong partnerships.
• Monitor project progress, collect data, and prepare regular reports on project activities, outcomes, and challenges.
• Manage project resources, including personnel, materials, and finances, ensuring efficient utilization.
• Identify and mitigate project risks, ensuring the safety and well-being of project participants and beneficiaries.
• Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Ensure compliance with funding requirements, grant conditions, and organizational policies.
• Evaluate project impact and sustainability, recommending adjustments for continuous improvement.
• Represent the organization and its projects in public forums and at community events in Free State.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, with a focus on community development, social programs, or NGO initiatives.
• Proven track record of successfully managing development projects from conception to completion.
• Strong understanding of community dynamics, local governance structures, and participatory development approaches.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in budget management and financial oversight for development projects.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a high degree of initiative and problem-solving capability.
• Passion for social justice and community empowerment.
• Experience working in the Welkom area or similar socio-economic contexts is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive contract compensation package.
• Opportunity to make a significant social impact and contribute to community well-being.
• Flexible working arrangements may be considered.
• Professional development opportunities and training in relevant areas.
• Networking opportunities with other development professionals and organizations.
• Exposure to diverse community projects and challenges.
• Potential for contract extension based on performance and project funding.
• Travel allowance for project-related activities within the Free State.
• Work within a mission-driven organization dedicated to positive change.