Social Impact Program Manager

Placements24; Sandton; Remote; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Fully remote

Impactful programs

Development opportunities

Mission-driven

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks an experienced Social Impact Program Manager for a fully remote position. You will lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of social impact programs across the country, coordinating cross-functional teams and partnerships.

The role requires 5-7 years in program management, a master's degree, and strong leadership, M&E, and communication skills. You will drive outcomes, manage budgets, and report to funders.

Qualifications

• A Master's degree in a relevant field such as Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Administration, or Business Administration.
• 5–7 years of program management experience in non-profit or social impact sectors.
• Proven design, management, and evaluation of complex social programs.
• Strong understanding of social impact, theory of change, and M&E.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of social impact programs from concept to delivery.
• Set program strategies, goals, and measurable targets aligned with mission.
• Manage budgets with resource efficiency and accountability.
• Build partnerships with NGOs, government, and sponsors.
• Provide leadership and performance management to teams.
• Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress.
• Prepare reports for leadership, funders, and stakeholders.
• Identify risks and mitigation strategies for programs.
• Foster knowledge sharing across programs and teams.
• Represent the organization at relevant forums and events.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Remote team leadership

Virtual collaboration tools

Education

Master's degree in relevant field

Tools

Asana

MS Project

Slack

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a visionary organization driving impactful social change, seeking an experienced and strategic Social Impact Program Manager for a fully remote position. This role is responsible for overseeing the development, implementation, and evaluation of key social programs aimed at addressing critical community needs within **South Africa**. You will lead cross‑functional teams, manage budgets, build partnerships with stakeholders, and ensure programs achieve their intended outcomes. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional leadership, project management, and communication skills, coupled with a deep understanding of social impact initiatives. As a remote‑first role, you will leverage digital collaboration tools to connect with teams and partners across the country. Join our client in their mission to create sustainable positive change and empower communities from your home office. This is an opportunity to shape impactful projects and drive meaningful results remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, planning, and execution of social impact programs from inception to completion.
• Develop program strategies, goals, and measurable objectives aligned with the organization's mission.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation and financial accountability.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners, NGOs, government agencies, and corporate sponsors.
• Oversee program teams, providing leadership, guidance, and performance management.
• Develop and implement robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track program progress and impact.
• Prepare regular reports for leadership, stakeholders, and funders on program activities and outcomes.
• Identify potential risks and challenges and develop mitigation strategies.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing and best practices across different programs and teams.
• Represent the organization at relevant forums, conferences, and networking events.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Administration, or Business Administration.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in program management, preferably within the non‑profit or social impact sector.
• Proven track record of successfully designing, managing, and evaluating complex social programs.
• Strong understanding of social impact principles, theories of change, and M&E methodologies.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent strategic thinking, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software and virtual collaboration tools.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead remote teams effectively.
• A passion for social justice and driving positive societal change.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Fully remote work arrangement, offering exceptional flexibility and autonomy.
• Opportunity to lead and shape impactful social change initiatives.
• Significant professional development and networking opportunities.
• Be part of a mission‑driven organization with a strong reputation.