About the Role
Our client, an established agricultural development NGO operating in the Polokwane, Limpopo region, is seeking a passionate and experienced Sustainable Agriculture Program Manager. This vital role involves leading and implementing programs focused on promoting environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially equitable agricultural practices. The Program Manager will be responsible for designing, managing, and evaluating projects that support smallholder farmers, enhance biodiversity, conserve natural resources, and improve livelihoods. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in sustainable agriculture, project management, and community engagement. This is an impactful opportunity to drive positive change in the agricultural landscape of Limpopo. You will work closely with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to foster the adoption of sustainable farming techniques. Our client is dedicated to empowering farmers and building resilient agricultural systems for the future. Your leadership will be key to achieving tangible results and ensuring the long-term success of our sustainability initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and manage sustainable agriculture projects from conception to completion.
- Develop project work plans, budgets, and timelines, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
- Oversee the execution of field activities, including farmer training workshops, demonstration plots, and technical support.
- Monitor and evaluate project progress, impact, and sustainability, collecting and analyzing data for reporting.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, farmer groups, government officials, and other stakeholders in Limpopo .
- Ensure that all program activities align with principles of ecological sustainability, social equity, and economic viability.
- Mobilize resources through proposal writing and fundraising efforts.
- Provide technical guidance and capacity building to project staff and beneficiaries on sustainable agricultural practices.
- Represent the organization in relevant forums and advocate for policies that support sustainable agriculture.
- Manage partnerships and collaborations with other organizations working in the agricultural development sector.
Requirements
- A Master's degree in Sustainable Agriculture, Environmental Science, Agronomy, Rural Development, or a related field.
- A minimum of 6 years of experience in program management, with a focus on sustainable agriculture or rural development.
- Proven experience in designing and implementing agricultural projects, preferably with smallholder farmers.
- Strong understanding of ecological principles, conservation agriculture, agroecology, and climate-smart agriculture.
- Excellent project management skills, including budgeting, planning, monitoring, and evaluation (M&E).
- Demonstrated ability in community engagement, participatory approaches, and capacity building.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and reporting skills.
- Experience with fundraising and proposal writing is highly desirable.
- Ability to work independently and lead a team in challenging field conditions.
- Knowledge of the agricultural context and development challenges in the Polokwane area and Limpopo province.
Benefits
- Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage and opportunities for professional development.
- This role provides a chance to make a significant positive impact on sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods in the Limpopo region.
- We offer a collaborative and mission-driven work environment, committed to fostering positive change.
- The position includes opportunities for travel within the region to oversee project activities near Polokwane .