Programme Manager (Makhanda Circle of Unity) 3-year contract

**Programme Manager (Makhanda Circle of Unity)**3-year contract

Rhodes University invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team. Main Objectives The MAKHANDA CIRCLE OF UNITY (MCoU), established in 2019, is a collaborative forum established for the fulfilment of an inclusive and purposeful approach for the socio-economic development of Makhanda and its surrounds, which aims to bring together all relevant and interested voices, communities and stakeholders in a spirit of problem solving, partnership and civic participation.

The Programme Manager is responsible for providing strategic leadership, coordination, and operational management of the Makhanda Circle of Unity (MCoU), an established multi-stakeholder civil society collaboration platform dedicated to the inclusive socio-economic development of Makhanda and its surrounds.

Building on the foundations laid since the formalisation of the MCoU as a registered non-profit organisation in 2021, and the successful activation of its cluster-based collaboration model, the Programme Manager will consolidate and expand the MCoU’s programmes, partnerships, and impact. The role serves as the central integrator and convenor across stakeholder clusters, enabling distributed leadership, strengthening cross-sector collaboration, and translating collective priorities into coordinated, high-impact projects and initiatives.

The Programme Manager will drive programme implementation across priority thematic clusters (including education, food security, local economic development, and community engagement), support collaborative problem-solving and advocacy, and deepen strategic partnerships with civil society organisations, educational institutions, business forums, donors, and relevant public sector stakeholders.

A core objective of the role is to strengthen organisational sustainability through resource mobilisation, partnership development, improved operational systems, and enhanced stakeholder communication and visibility. The Programme Manager will also support governance processes, reporting, and accountability to the Steering Committee and funders, ensuring that the MCoU remains a trusted, neutral, and effective platform for civic partnership and community impact. The Requirements At least a relevant Bachelor's Degree in Commerce, Law or Social Sciences (NQF level 7), with at least 4 years relevant experience, where such experience includes: -

• Previous experience working with NGOs, government, and the private sector
• A strong track record of managing complex projects
• Track record of successful people management
• A track record of successful fundraising, financial management and visibility impact
• Track record of initiating and successfully managing change

Application Process It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:* A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: - + Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs. + Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.

• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements. Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za.

Selection Process:* The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.

• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date. Remuneration per annum:

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R1,155,537.40

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates. Closing Date: 31 July 2026This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possibleIf you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies. Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are:

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.