About UpSkill Universe

UpSkill Universe is a leading organisation in the world of Skills and Inclusion. Since 2015 we’ve built some of the world's largest award-winning digital skills, talent and inclusion programmes empowering over 650,000 people globally partnering with the likes of Google, Walmart, HSBC, and TikTok.

We are passionate about tackling the skills and representation in business, supporting companies to create equitable career pathways to boost progression and develop relevant skills for the future workplace.

As a company, we have big plans, to continue our expansion and growth in the UK, and continue to roll out our programs targeting the US, Europe and Asia-Pacific and Sub-Saharan Africa markets. We are continuing to grow and want to build an iconic company recognised for its innovative approach to delivering scalable learning.

About the challenge

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager with extensive knowledge of the South African digital ecosystem, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as defined under South African law, and Historically Disadvantaged Persons (HDPs) as per South African legislation to oversee various programs to equip SMEs and app developers with vital skills for digital growth. The programs aim to train SMEs and HDPs to enhance their online presence and convert customers, while app developers will gain expertise in Universal App Campaigns (UACs) and search advertising for improved app visibility. This role will oversee these and other initiatives, including ad credits distribution, Google Business Profile support, and digital marketing training, ensuring compliance with the South Africa Competition Commission and enabling South African businesses to succeed in a competitive digital environment

This is a full-time role on a 2 year fixed term contract.

What are some of the things I will be doing?

- Administer an ads credit program to eligible platforms and developers

•  Conduct outreach to platforms and developers regarding the ads credits program and application process
• Create and administer application process for platforms and developers wishing to receive ads credits
• Review and approve eligible applications
• Coordinate internally with teams to implement ads credits reimbursement process

- Administer ads optimization training program for qualifying platforms

•   Ensure advertisers receive appropriate technical support and training to enable platforms to optimise ads campaigns and visibility in Paid Results
• Manage relationship with 3rd party vendor responsible for performing ads optimization training
• Establish and manage application process for qualifying platforms to receive support and training
• Conduct outreach to qualifying platforms regarding the availability of the training and support and application process

- Administer digital marketing training program for qualifying platforms that are SMEs or HDP-owned and controlled firms

•    Manage relationship with 3rd party vendor responsible for performing digital marketing training
• Establish and manage application process for qualifying platforms to receive support and training
• Conduct outreach to qualifying platforms regarding the availability of the training and support and application process

- Coordinate with internal teams to establish verified Google Business Profiles for South African SMEs of HDP-owned and controlled businesses

•   Conduct outreach to qualifying platforms as needed regarding the availability of the assistance with creating profiles

• Manage relationship with 3rd party vendor as needed

- Identify potential microlending partners and conduct analyses of each, in order to assist in selecting ultimate partner and funding mechanism

•  Coordinate with microlending partner to implement microlending program
• Coordinate with internal teams to create and implement product credit distribution mechanism
• Coordinate support to eligible South African SME or HDP-owned and controlled platforms and developers, and online businesses.
• Manage periodic promotion of this opportunity

- Own, manage and control the budget for all programs

- Provide high quality status reports for all programs

Essential skills

• Bachelor degree 
• 5-6 years of proven experience in product marketing management or top tier management consultancy, preferably in the digital sector or with SMEs in South Africa
• Experience working with Google ads and Google Business Profile is essential
• In-depth understanding of the South African digital ecosystem, SME landscape, HDP-related policies and the South African Competition Commission
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Demonstrable ability to manage multiple stakeholders and vendors
• Experience in robust program management and high quality reporting
• Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Fluency in English; knowledge of other South African languages is a plus

Desirable

• MBA or equivalent professional experience
• Project management qualification

Location : South Africa , remote 

Our values

We own it: The impact of what we do is what fuels us, so we take full ownership of our work and our relationships to ensure we deliver with pride.

We fix each other’s crowns: Whether it’s our team, our clients or our partners, we support each other to be at our best, always striving to be there when you need an uplift.

We strive to grow: Every person we meet has something amazing to offer this world, so we celebrate our differences and foster a mindset of curiosity, inspiring each other to greatness.

We work sustainably: We adopt mindful practices and prioritise the health of each other and our environment, ensuring our impact is always positive.

Does this sound like you? Then get involved!

We would love to get a feel for your approach and personality, so if you feel you would be a great fit, please submit your application.