Implementation Partner Specialist

We are recruiting on behalf of a client for an Implementation Partner Specialist to support the development and management of strategic programmes aimed at increasing sustainable youth employment opportunities. The successful candidate will combine research, project management, stakeholder engagement and sector analysis to identify growth opportunities, strengthen implementation partner performance and deliver measurable value across key programmes. This role is ideal for a collaborative professional who can manage complex projects, build trusted stakeholder relationships and turn data and research into practical strategies.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to identify sector gaps, job creation opportunities and strategic growth areas.
• Support the development and execution of strategic and ESG-related projects.
• Project manage strategic programmes from planning through to implementation, reporting and completion.
• Manage programme scope, budgets, timelines, suppliers and project deliverables.
• Work closely with key clients to understand their strategic objectives and align implementation programmes accordingly.
• Monitor implementation partner performance against agreed KPIs, service levels and programme requirements.
• Map priority sectors, including subsectors, job roles, skills requirements, qualifications and implementation partner capabilities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, implementation partners and internal stakeholders.
• Facilitate regular project status meetings and prepare professional reports, presentations and programme updates.
• Support business development initiatives by identifying opportunities within the existing implementation partner network.
• Monitor client and implementation partner satisfaction and recommend opportunities to improve programme delivery.
• Coordinate the collection and quality assurance of programme data and ensure reports are completed accurately and within deadline.
• Support grant applications and manage grant-funded projects aimed at improving youth absorption and employment outcomes.
• Conduct implementation partner assessments, site visits, vetting and compliance monitoring where required.

Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualification, preferably in Business, Social Sciences, Project Management or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in stakeholder engagement, business development and/or project management.
• Experience in a compliance-focused role would be advantageous.
• A Master's degree would be advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of project management principles, stakeholder engagement and sector development.
• Understanding of the NGO or youth development environment would be beneficial.
• Knowledge of relevant South African labour and employment legislation.
• Understanding of B-BBEE principles, governance and compliance requirements.
• Strong MS Office skills and experience working with databases and reporting information.
• Excellent analytical, auditing and data-quality review capabilities.
• Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to manage suppliers and monitor performance against Service Level Agreements.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, relationship-building and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to drive accountability and performance without necessarily having direct reports.
• A genuine passion for youth development and employment creation.
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable vehicle are essential.
• Willingness to travel locally for site visits and partner assessments.
• Flexibility to work after hours or over weekends when programme requirements demand it.

EE Disclaimer:

All positions will be filled in accordance with the company's Employment Equity plan. We encourage people with disabilities to apply.

Application Unsuccessful Disclaimer:

If you do not receive feedback within two weeks of your application, please consider it unsuccessful. Keep an eye on our website and other career sites for future opportunities.

REF: TB01