The National Sea Rescue Institute will appoint an experienced Head of Community Programmes to develop and implement community-focused education, outreach, and safety initiatives. In addition, this position will oversee implementation, volunteer mobilisation, and impact measurement to ensure meaningful and sustainable community outcomes. The NSRI has 50+ stations, satellite stations and Lifeguard containers across a volunteer network spanning 1500+ volunteers.
| Duties and Responsibilities | Community Programs Annual Strategy and Plan DevelopmentLead the development and implementation of the community programmes strategy and annual operational plan.Set clear program targets, performance indicators, and success metrics.Define and document program-related policies, frameworks, and procedures.Design and implement an operating model that ensures resources, structures, and processes are in place to support delivery.Monitor program performance and traction through regular assessments and return-on-investment (ROI) analysis.Research and Design of Community Program InitiativesConduct ongoing research into best practices, global trends, and local innovations in community-based safety and education.Design and prototype new community initiatives with an emphasis on prevention, safety, and behavioural change.Develop creative and impactful ways to educate and engage communities around water safety, drowning prevention and rescue readiness.Drive action-based research and data-driven projects to tackle community safety challenges and generate learnings for broader applicationRollout and Execution of ProgramsOversee the rollout of community program across regions, ensuring quality, consistency, and local relevance.Assess and verify the competence of program participants and manage relevant accreditations.Recruit, onboard, and capacitate volunteers and facilitators to support implementation.Manage the provision of equipment, training materials, and onboarding resources.Set and monitor targets for education initiatives including schools, youth, and community-based interventions.Community Outreach and Project ManagementManage the planning, execution, and monitoring of outreach programmes including school visits, safety workshops and similar activities.Ensure all outreach activities meet NSRI standards and are aligned to the audit checklist and approval protocols.Collaborate with internal departments to ensure logistical, training, and communications support for events and campaigns.Track implementation timelines, milestones, and risks for all community projects.Data Collection and AnalysisOversee the collection and validation of data from community programs, outreach activities, and education interventions.Produce timely and accurate reports on impact, trends, gaps, and areas for improvement.Use data insights to adjust program design, target setting, and strategic focus.Contribute to sector research by publishing insights and sharing learnings with relevant partners.Stakeholder Engagement and ManagementCoordinate and lead engagement efforts with stakeholders.Establish and maintain partnerships to create educational pathways and career development pipelines for youth.Assess community needs and identify new relationship opportunities for collaboration.Develop and distribute collateral and awareness materials aligned to program objectives.Drive strategic collaboration with the Department of Education, Disaster Management, and advocacy partners to strengthen the impact and reach of programs.Budget Management and reportingDevelop and manage the budget for all community program activities.Ensure responsible utilisation of funds in alignment with donor expectations and organisational guidelines.Prepare grant reports, including qualitative and quantitative impact data.Report on the number of learners reached, community activities delivered, and programme outcomes achieved.People ManagementLead, mentor, and develop operational teams to drive high performancePeople Management Lead, mentor, and develop operational teams to drive high performance.Set clear performance standards, monitor progress, and manage outcomes aligned to operational goals.Conduct performance reviews, provide coaching, and address underperformance proactively.Build leadership capacity by identifying talent, developing succession plans, and supporting career growth.Drive a culture of operational excellence, collaboration, continuous learning, and commitment to organisational values.Foster teamwork, trust, and empowerment to keep teams motivated, accountable, and aligned. |
| Minimum Requirements | Bachelor’s degree in general management / social services / education / similarA Post Graduate Degree in General Management / Social Services / Education / similar (Advantageous)5 Years experience in Learning and Development3-5 Years management experience in Learning and Development design and research5 Years management experience in relevant operational roles.Advantageous Experience:Experience in Maritime / Rescue activitiesExperience with volunteer-based organisationsCore Competencies:Analytical skillsInnovative design thinkingStakeholder engagementBudget ManagementPersonnel ManagementSkills Required:Planning & ExecutionData analysisProject managementPublic speakingFacilitation skills We offer a hard-working, fun environment that goes hand in hand with the rescue operations and service teams of the NSRI.Please include a copy of your CV together with a letter of motivation and 3 contactable references. The NSRI is committed to transformation and diversity, and we encourage applications from previously disadvantaged individuals and people. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview. |
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Source: https://www.nsri.org.za/who-we-are/vacancies/
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