Programme Manager ? Human Rights and Community Systems Strengthening

NACOSA is seeking a committed and experienced Programme Manager - Human Rights and Community Systems Strengthening to lead the implementation of our Human Rights and Community Systems Strengthening portfolio in Grant Cycle 7 of the Global Fund. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to advancing human rights, strengthening community-based systems, and ensuring that vulnerable and key populations are able to access quality health and social services.

The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Manager will include, but not limited to:

• Provide overall management, oversight, and coordination of the Human Rights and Community Systems Strengthening programme and teams.
• Lead the design, planning, and implementation of strategies to strengthen community-based responses and promote access to justice, stigma reduction, and human rights protections.
• Manage relationships with donors, government stakeholders, and community-based organisations, ensuring compliance with funding and contractual requirements.
• Monitor programme performance and impact, providing technical support, guidance, and capacity building to implementing partners.
• Support to ensure monitoring and evaluation information and reports for all programmatic activity is accurate and complete.
• Ensure timely, accurate reporting and effective knowledge management.
• Contribute to resource mobilisation efforts and represent NACOSA at national and provincial forums.
• Assist with the Programme budgeting process and monitor and report on programme expenditure against programmatic activities.
• Manage and oversee procurement processes of service providers or goods in coordination with the Deputy Grant Manager/ Grant Manager and in accordance with NACOSAs procurement policy.

• A relevant degree in Social Sciences, Public Health, Human Rights, or related field (postgraduate qualification preferred).
• At least 7 years’ experience in programme management, leading direct implementation teams and or implementing partners in a target-driven healthcare programme, with 3+ years in a leadership role. Specific experience required in implementation planning, technical guidance, logistical support functions and monitoring, and evaluation.
• Demonstrated experience in human rights programming, advocacy, and community systems strengthening.

• Strong knowledge of health, HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health – within the relevant South African Frameworks relevant to Adolescents and Young People, key populations, gender-based violence, and human rights.
• Proven ability to build partnerships with civil society, donors, and government stakeholders.
• Excellent project management, financial oversight, and reporting skills.
• Relevant working experience in the NGO sector.
• Willingness to travel nationally as required.

Skills and attributes

• Strong commitment to human rights, social justice, and community empowerment.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into practical action.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and deliver results

Closing date for all applications: 07 June 2026

Application Process: Please note that emailed applications will not be considered.

NB: NACOSA reserves the right to close this job advert early if sufficient applications are received or a suitable candidate is identified.

PLEASE NOTE:

Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants who are members of the designated groups in line with the employment equity plan and targets of NACOSA. We also encourage people with disabilities to apply and an indication in this regard will be appreciated. NACOSA is guided by the principles of Employment Equity.

In the event that you do not hear from us after 2 weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. NACOSA reserves the right to amend and/or withdraw adverts at any time without notification. NACOSA respects the privacy of its stakeholders and will treat all personal information provided in line with our recruitment policy and in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act.

As part of our hiring process, NACOSA will inquire during reference checks for information about job applicants’ reference persons regarding any finding of sexual exploitation, abuse, and/or harassment as well as any other forms of misconduct.