Social Services Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein seeks a Social Services Manager to lead our social services team. This senior role oversees strategic planning, program development, and service delivery across the Free State, balancing operations with a hybrid work arrangement.

You will manage staff, ensure regulatory compliance, drive funding through grants, and build partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to improve outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• 8+ years in social services with 5+ years in management or leadership.
• Registered with SACSSP.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, program development and financial management.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for all social services programs and initiatives.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, supervision, and performance management of social work staff.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Manage program budgets, resource allocation, and financial reporting.
• Monitor program outcomes and impact, utilizing data to drive improvements and demonstrate accountability.
• Cultivate and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations in Bloemfontein.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Lead efforts in grant writing, fundraising, and securing sustainable funding for programs.
• Represent the organization in relevant forums and advocate for the needs of the community.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the social services department.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Stakeholder engagement

Team development

Negotiation

Education

Master's degree in Social Work / Public Administration

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a well-established organization focused on enhancing social welfare and community support services in the Free State province. We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Social Services Manager to lead our dedicated team in Bloemfontein . This senior management position involves overseeing the strategic planning, development, and implementation of all social services programs. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing program staff, ensuring the quality of service delivery, and fostering strong relationships with community stakeholders and funding bodies. This role requires a proven track record in leadership, program management, and a deep understanding of social challenges faced by the community. You will play a critical role in shaping the future of social services in Bloemfontein and ensuring that our client continues to provide vital support to those in need throughout the Free State . The hybrid nature of this role balances operational needs with flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for all social services programs and initiatives.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, supervision, and performance management of social work staff.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Manage program budgets, resource allocation, and financial reporting.
• Monitor program outcomes and impact, utilizing data to drive improvements and demonstrate accountability.
• Cultivate and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations in Bloemfontein .
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Lead efforts in grant writing, fundraising, and securing sustainable funding for programs.
• Represent the organization in relevant forums and advocate for the needs of the community.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the social services department.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in social services, with at least 5 years in a management or leadership role.
• Registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
• Proven experience in strategic planning, program development, and financial management.
• In-depth knowledge of social welfare policies and the challenges facing communities in the Free State .
• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated success in securing funding and managing budgets.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and partnership development.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous retirement fund.
• This role provides a significant opportunity for professional growth and leadership development.
• You will have the satisfaction of leading impactful work that directly benefits the Bloemfontein community.
• Join a respected organization committed to making a difference in the lives of many throughout the Free State .