Community & Partnerships Manager at GVI

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

• As our Community & Partnerships Manager, you become the Guide's most crucial ally, securing the partnerships that feed the pipeline of global changemakers.
• Your success, measured directly by the growth in leads and bookings from university societies and external partners, directly fuels GVI’s ability to protect the planet and empower its people. This role isn't about maintaining the status quo; it's about pioneering and executing strategic growth initiatives that define our future impact.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

• Pioneer Growth: Identify, lead, and execute new strategic growth opportunities, translating commercial objectives into clear, actionable, end-to-end plans.
• Own Key Relationships: Take full ownership of our university society and student partnership strategy and execution to drive high-quality referrals and bookings.
• Serve as Account Leader: Act as the primary point of contact for external partners, managing relationships, ensuring high-value communication, and driving action plans to meet booking and conversion goals.
• Fuel Marketing Campaigns: Collaborate with the Marketing team by providing strategic direction and copy input to develop compelling content and collateral aligned with partner goals.
• Coordinate Impactful Events: Manage the planning and smooth logistical and technical delivery of promotional activities and events (virtual and in-person) at universities and across digital channels.
• Mentor and Coordinate: Work closely with the internal University team to drive overall growth in bookings and provide guidance/coordination support to junior team members involved in outreach activities.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

• Commercial Growth Driver: Proven experience in Account Management, Business Development, or Growth Initiatives, with a motivation to take independent ownership and drive measurable revenue.
• Relationship & Account Expert: Exceptional ability to manage complex partnerships end-to-end, serving as the primary relationship owner for high-value external partners.
• Community & Digital Strategist: Direct experience in Marketing Community Management, leveraging digital and in-person events for lead generation and brand visibility.
• Strategic Thinker: Proven capacity to translate commercial targets into clear, executable, and effective plans.
• Data-Driven Execution: Strong track record using CRM tools (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) to track metrics, forecast conversions, and report on partnership results.
• Global Partnership Experience: Direct experience forming and managing commercial partnerships in key GVI markets (e.g., UK, US, EU, AU, ZA).
• Event and Digital Fluency: Proven experience planning and executing successful promotional events (physical campus events and large-scale digital campaigns).

Bonus if you also have:

• Higher Education Context: Experience working within or extensively engaging with the university education system or student-focused programs.
• Previous experience in the sustainable development, educational travel, or volunteering sector.
• Familiarity with marketing copywriting principles, especially for younger/student demographics.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU

• Basic salary of R28 000 – R35 000 (depending on experience).
• Generous leave policy 
• Opportunities for growth within a global organisation
• Flexible, collaborative, and fun culture
• Regular connection with our leadership team and CEO
• Access to in-house wellbeing support