Executive Director

The Siyazisiza Trust is a non-profit social enterprise established in 1987. We work with small-scale farmers and agricultural enterprises across South Africa to improve their livelihoods, food security, and environment. Through partnerships with both the Government and the Private sector, we strive to find effective ways to combat poverty and food insecurity and to diversify rural household livelihood strategies. Operating from our Food Hub in Mtunzini, Kwazulu-Natal, we currently provide support to farmers in Kwazulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Mpumalanga.

About the Job

The ED of Siyazisiza Trust will serve as the organization’s visionary leader, responsible for driving strategic growth, strengthening financial sustainability, and expanding impact across rural communities. The ED will report directly to the Board of Trustees and work closely with the management team to inspire a culture of innovation, foster partnerships, and ensure operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership

Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve organisational goals and mission, ensuring alignment with the Board’s vision and priorities.

Oversee financial strategy, including budgeting, cash flow, and resource allocation, to ensure long-term financial health and sustainability.

Collaborate with the Board of Trustees, providing timely and accurate information to support effective decision-making.

Oversee all aspects of programme development and delivery, ensuring programmes meet the needs of the communities served and expectations of the donor.

Provide inspirational leadership to foster a positive work culture, encouraging collaboration and professional growth.

Serve as the chief spokesperson for Siyazisiza Trust, representing the organization at public events, conferences, and media engagements.

Oversee risk management, ensuring compliance with legal, ethical, and operational standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Non-profit Management, Business Administration, Rural Development, Social Sciences, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

Fluency in English and, ideally, at least a basic understanding of isiZulu / isiXhosa.

Valid driver’s license.

Minimum 8-10 years of senior leadership experience in a non-profit or social enterprise, preferably within rural development or agriculture-focused organisations.

Experience and understanding of agriculture and food systems, agroecology, seed systems, climate change and agricultural biodiversity.

Skills and Attributes

Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans.

Strong financial and business acumen, with experience in managing budgets and overseeing financial operations.

Strong business development and programme design skills.

Exceptional communication and public speaking skills, with extensive experience in stakeholder engagement.

Demonstrated success in fundraising and business development.

Commitment to inclusive leadership and staff development.

Working knowledge of BB-BEE codes will be an added advantage.

To apply

In order to apply, email your application by Friday 23rd May 2025 to - send your completed AA bio form, letter of motivation and updated CV (all in MS Word format).

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