Columba Leadership (columba.org.za) is an NGO that activates youth enterprise and employment by helping young people transcend their personal circumstances and offers meaningful social impact to all investors. Founded in 2009, our goal is to ensure that hundreds of thousands of young people become alive to their potential and recognize their ability to lead change in their own lives, their schools and communities. We also aim to ensure that high schools in South Africa become aware that learners working in partnership with adults can do much to strengthen schools through effective social action. Our purpose is to transform the culture of schools to change the trajectory of youth. We work in close association with the Department of Education, building the capacity of high schools, serving economically disadvantaged communities to embed our values-based leadership model.
Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, Columba Leadership seeks to appoint a
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
The CEO will lead the organisation in its mission to address the problems of the high learner dropout rate and youth unemployment in SA. Columbae does this by developing ethical young leaders while still at school. Through thier values-based experiential leadership model, learners work in school- based groups on social action projects. While addressing real life challenges they face daily, learners develop 21st century skills such as: critical thinking, collaboration, communication and resilience.
Supported by adults, the learners tackle social issues that can impact negatively on youth outcomes including violence and gangsterism, ill-discipline, late-coming, unhygienic conditions, teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, poor academic achievement and learner dropouts. Columba Leadership partners with schools in 6 provinces in the most under-served communities. Schools are equipped with the know-how and methods to embed values, forge partnerships between adults and youth, and effectively engage young people to contribute to addressing challenging issues in the school and community. Columba Leadership mentors the school through this change process helping schools to sustain impact even after exiting and ensuring that its learner population can benefit over time.
Key responsibilities of this exciting position includes but are not limited to:
Provide overall strategic direction and leadership in guiding the work of Columba Leadership
Collaborate with the Board in developing and implementing a long-term strategic plan in line with our mission and vision
Oversee the financial status of the organisation, including developing short, medium and long-term plans, monitoring the budget and ensuring sound financial controls are in place
Increase efficiencies and consistency throughout the organisation by providing oversight to the development and implementation of standardised programmes, services and procedures
Formulate and execute comprehensive marketing, branding and fundraising strategies that will enhance revenue from funders, government agencies and the private sector
Develop and maintain networks and strategic relations with key stakeholders, including staff, Board members, funders and project partners
Manage and expand various local and international strategic partnership arrangements
Ensure the delivery of high-quality services and values-based leadership and operations
Foster a values-based, agile, people-centred organisational culture
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) must meet the following criteria:
Relevant tertiary qualification
Minimum of 5-7 years senior management experience in the development sector
Experienced, inspirational, energetic and compassionate leader
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, networking and negotiation skills
Excellent strategic thinker, communicator and relationship builder
Proven fundraising skills and track record
Strong commitment to social justice, transformation and development
Strategic understanding of the intersection of youth development on key social outcomes and education
Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel – local and international
View the full job description and application instructions on the Vacancies page at www.actionappointments.co.za and email your application by Monday 25th October 2021 to [email protected]