We’re Hiring: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

A smiling man using a wheelchair is seated with a laptop on his lap, against a light geometric background. The banner text reads: "We Are Hiring: Chief Executive Officer." A bright orange circle highlights the text: "Applications Close 25 May 2025." The South African Employers 4 Disability logo is displayed in the top right corner.

Vacancy: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location: Hybrid / Onsite (Johannesburg)

Creation Date: April 2025

Closing Date for Applications: 25 May 2025

Application Email: admin@sae4d.co.za

Occupational Level: 3

Job Grade: 5

About SAE4D

South African Employers for Disability (SAE4D) is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to driving disability transformation in the workplace. Our mission is to empower employers, build inclusive policies and practices, and promote the rights and opportunities of persons with disabilities across South Africa. We work in collaboration with the public and private sectors to advance disability inclusion, raise awareness, and support capacity-building for sustainable change.

About the Role

SAE4D is seeking an exceptional, purpose-driven leader to serve as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This individual will be responsible for the overall strategic leadership and operational management of SAE4D, reporting directly to the Board of Directors.

The CEO will oversee the planning and execution of advocacy, fundraising, and capacity-building initiatives, while also managing daily operations and relationships with internal and external stakeholders. A strong track record in the NGO or NPO space is essential, as well as an authentic commitment to advancing disability inclusion.

This is a hybrid or onsite role based in Gauteng, with flexibility required for stakeholder engagement and member support across regions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead SAE4D’s strategic direction and ensure its alignment with national disability and transformation goals.
  • Represent SAE4D at stakeholder engagements, forums, and media platforms.
  • Engage with both private and public sectors, including government departments and employer organisations.
  • Drive membership growth, value offerings, and support to SAE4D members.
  • Secure and manage sustainable funding, including grant writing, fundraising, and proposal development.
  • Oversee organisational governance, compliance, financial management, and daily operations.
  • Lead communication efforts, including media liaison, digital campaigns, and brand positioning.
  • Develop and facilitate training and capacity-building initiatives to promote inclusive practices.
  • Prepare reports, proposals, and presentation materials for strategic engagements and reporting.
 

Required Qualifications and Experience

  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in the NGO/NPO sector, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or executive role.
  • Matric required; tertiary qualification is advantageous.
  • Proven success in stakeholder engagement, fundraising, and project management.
  • Demonstrated experience in advocacy, policy development, and working with employer organisations and government.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills.
  • Strong administrative and organisational capabilities.
  • Knowledge of disability inclusion, equity legislation, and transformation frameworks is essential.
  • Relevant NGO experience is a must.
  • Valid driver’s license.
 

The Ideal Candidate Will Be

  • A dynamic and engaging leader who can confidently represent SAE4D at national level.
  • Passionate about disability rights and transformation in the workplace.
  • Skilled in building relationships and driving membership engagement.
  • Committed to collaboration, innovation, and measurable impact.
  • A strategic thinker with operational discipline and attention to detail.

 

Why Join SAE4D?

  • Lead one of South Africa’s leading organisations in disability transformation.
  • Play a critical role in shaping inclusive practices across sectors.
  • Collaborate with dedicated professionals and influential stakeholders.
  • Work in a flexible, purpose-driven environment with room to innovate and initiate much needed change in the disability inclusion space.
 

Application Process

Before applying, please ensure that you meet all the required criteria as listed under “Required Qualifications and Experience”.
To apply, please send the following to admin@sae4d.co.za by 25 May 2025:

  • Your CV
  • A cover letter detailing your suitability for the role and your motivation for applying
 

Please note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.