Senior Program Manager

Rhodes University; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 000 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in South Africa is seeking an accomplished Programme Manager to lead high-impact strategic initiatives. This role requires over 9 years of experience managing complex programmes, particularly within the financial sector. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong stakeholder management and strategic thinking abilities, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives while fostering collaboration across teams. This position offers the opportunity to manage transformative projects and implement effective governance frameworks.

Qualifications

• 9+ years’ experience in programme/project management.
• Experience in the financial or banking industry is required.
• Proven ability to influence and engage stakeholders at executive levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage end-to-end strategic programmes aligned with business priorities.
• Oversee projects with multiple vendors, ensuring seamless delivery.
• Develop and implement programme governance frameworks.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Leadership

Risk management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Project Management, or related field

Tools

PMP

Prince2

MSP

Agile

Job description

About the Role:

We are seeking an accomplished Programme Manager to lead complex, high-impact strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record managing multi-vendor environments, overseeing joint ventures, and delivering transformative projects that drive business outcomes. This role demands strategic thinking, stakeholder management at senior levels, and the ability to navigate ambiguity while ensuring project governance and delivery excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage end-to-end strategic programmes, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and business priorities.
• Oversee projects involving multiple vendors, ensuring seamless integration and delivery across diverse teams.
• Drive joint venture initiatives, fostering collaboration between internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Develop and implement programme governance frameworks, reporting structures, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate closely with business units, senior leadership, and external stakeholders to ensure programme objectives are met on time and within budget.
• Track programme performance metrics, identify dependencies, and proactively address risks and issues.
• Champion change management and ensure smooth adoption of new processes, systems, and business models.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Project Management, or related field.
• 9+ years’ experience in programme/project management.
• Experience in the financial industry or banking industry is required.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex programmes involving multiple vendors and joint ventures.
• Proven ability to influence and engage stakeholders at executive levels.
• Professional certifications such as PMP, Prince2, MSP, or Agile equivalent are advantageous.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and strong business acumen.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strong analytical, planning, and organisational capabilities.
• Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Leadership and team management, including cross-functional and matrix teams.
• Risk management and problem-solving mindset.