Education Portfolio Manager

About the role

Old Mutual is looking for an Education Portfolio Manager in Johannesburg to lead the design, implementation and continuous improvement of its Foundation's Education portfolio. The role turns strategy into measurable school-level impact, linking needs-led school support, implementation partnerships and employee volunteerism to practical, evidence-informed and scalable interventions.

Key responsibilities

• Own the portfolio implementation roadmap, turn strategy into annual plans and guide the three-year rollout, using clear selection criteria to prioritise support based on school and learner needs.
• Lead end-to-end programme design and delivery, from needs assessment and contracting through implementation, handover and close-out, coordinating partner activity and volunteerism so teaching and learning are not disrupted.
• Build and manage relationships with schools, partners, education stakeholders and government bodies such as the Department of Basic Education, and lead partner scoping and onboarding.
• Define outputs, outcomes and indicators, monitor quality, reach, partner performance, risks and progress against milestones and budgets, and report findings to leadership and governance.
• Manage the portfolio within approved budgets and governance, with due diligence, contracting and safeguarding, and escalate material risks early.
• Coordinate resources, give direction to staff and service providers, and work with Foundation, GSI and business teams on implementation, engagement and employee participation.

Required profile

• Degree in Education, Development Studies, Social Science, Community Development or a related field (NQF Level 7).
• At least 5 years' experience managing education or social investment programmes, preferably in the South African education system.
• Experience managing partners, senior stakeholders and service providers; people-management experience is advantageous as the role has direct reports.
• Advantageous: experience in literacy, numeracy, teacher development or whole-school support, and proficiency in a South African language besides English.
• Regular travel to schools and partner sites, including rural and peri-urban locations, with a valid driver's licence and reliable transport.

Required skills

• Programme and project management, including multi-site or multi-partner implementation.
• Strategic planning and strong analytical skills, including interpreting programme data, needs assessments and education evidence.
• Working knowledge of monitoring, evaluation and learning, budgeting, risk management, due diligence and governance in a social-investment environment.
• Strong written, presentation and facilitation skills, with confidence engaging senior decision-makers and public-sector stakeholders.