About the Organisation
Funda Wande, a member of the Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies, is a dynamic non-profit organisation committed to equipping teachers with the skills to teach reading for meaning and calculating with confidence in Grades R-3 in South Africa. By 2030, we aim to ensure that all children in South Africa can read for meaning and calculate with confidence by age 10. We believe this goal is achievable through relentless prioritisation, innovative thinking and rigorous testing of interventions designed to transform literacy and numeracy outcomes.
About the Job
Reporting to the CEO, the Head of Strategy, Partnerships, Communications and Advocacy’s (Head of SPCA) key responsibilities will be leading the development and implementation of Funda Wande’s strategy, partnerships, communications and advocacy initiatives. The role will require a strong understanding of the organisation's mission, values, and goals, and the ability to develop and execute strategies that align with these. This role will support the organisation’s growth through the proactive management of strategic partnerships, the development and delivery of advocacy positions and will thus help build the profile of Funda Wande as an advocate for evidence-based early-grade learning evolving demands.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy Thinking, Planning & Leadership
Lead the development, monitoring and reporting of FW’s Strategic Plan through engaging and collaborating with EXCO, MANCO and other relevant stakeholders for input
Design a balanced scorecard and measurement mechanism for tracking and achieving strategic and operational objectives.
Research the sector to understand the key risks and opportunities aligned to Funda Wande’s vision and strategic priorities.
Ensure that the unit’s operational plan is aligned with the organisation strategy.
Compile quarterly and annual reports for Funda Wande-widely, AGGPSA and the Board.
Participates as a member of the Executive and Management Committees.
Grant Management & Fundraising
Lead the development of the Grant / Donor / Funder strategic framework, with yearly objectives and programmes.
Lead strategic engagements with current and future Grant / Donor / Funders to secure sustainable funding and partnerships aligned with our “2030 Goal” and annual strategic objectives.
Develop a Data Management System to house all FW Grant / Donor / Funder agreements and related information
Plan, manage and coordinate all Grant / Donor / Funder activities, engagements and reporting (monthly, quarterly and yearly) requirements on behalf of FW
Strategic Alliances & Effective Leadership of Communications and Advocacy Strategy Development
Design and implement Funda Wande’s advocacy and communications strategy
Ensure stakeholder engagements and advocacy initiatives are planned, and stakeholder relationships maintained, followed through and reported on accordingly
Design Stakeholder Mapping; identify collaboration opportunities; monitor and report on stakeholders and politically significant activities affecting the foundation phase sector.
Monitor, track, and report on overall communications portfolio including social media, website and other communication platforms
Oversee Funda Wande’s branding and communications protocols and engagement platforms
Ensure talent management and development planning for the unit (i.e. job descriptions, recruitment & selection, onboarding, performance management, wellness management, training and development, discipline and responsibility, talent engagements, etc.) is in place and carried out in accordance with all HR Policies and Processes for both internal and independent contractors – in consultation with /support of HR team.
Budget Management & Support
Input into Annual Budget and ensure financial planning, tracking and reporting on the Budget for the unit (i.e. plan, schedule, and cost activities according to allocated budget).
Budget holder and sign off per set thresholds for procurement of goods and services (e.g. materials, independent contractors, office equipment, courier services, etc.) on planned activities
Make reasonable adjustments while maintaining the approved budget total for the intervention
Requirements
Required Qualifications, Experience and Skills
A four year Bachelor’s degree or Honours, in Strategic Management, Finance, Operations, Communications, or related field.
Masters degree will be advantageous
Minimum 5 years’ experience at a similar level coordinating similar roles within the philanthropy, education, or development sector.
A high level of understanding of strategy planning cycle management; grant making and advocacy
Considerable experience in budgeting/financial procedures
Proven ability to provide technical support and guidance to a diverse team
Good knowledge and understanding of key aspects of development work within the NPO & education sectors
Experience monitoring processes and systems in new and rapidly growing organizations.
Experience in working both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
Flexible with proven ability to conform to shifting priorities, demands and timelines through analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
Technically competent with various Microsoft Office & PMO software programs, etc.
Competencies
Business Acumen & Brand Awareness
Strategic Alliances & Effective Leadership
Budget & Financial Management
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
People Management
Analytical & Forward Thinking
Strategic Thinking & Planning
Ethics & integrity
To apply
To apply, email your application by Friday, 17th April 2026 to callum@actionappointments.co.za
