Experienced Program Manager skilled in managing functional operations and projects related to supplies and logistics. Advanced understanding of organizational strategies, financial management, procurement and contracting. Expertise in logistical analysis, inventory and supply chain performance, development and standardization. Thorough understanding of inventory management, procurement and acquisition regulations.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Programme Delivery Manager
Edge Growth
Johannesburg, South Africa
06.2021
Results-driven Programme Delivery Manager with expertise in client engagement, business development, program delivery, and critical product innovation for small businesses
Proven track record in developing and implementing effective client engagement strategies, resulting in increased satisfaction and retention
Led end-to-end product development, encompassing research, design, implementation, and enhancement, while ensuring alignment with client expectations and market trends
Acted as the custodian of product excellence, conducting ongoing analysis of existing products to ensure their continued relevance and efficacy
Successfully launched niche products generating over R50 million in revenue and creating cross-selling opportunities, specifically designed to enhance products for small businesses
Skilled in managing budgets, exceeding financial targets, and maintaining strong financial performance
Trusted advisor providing strategic and operational support to deliver quality client solutions
Consistently exceeding expectations through stakeholder management, strategic planning, and operational excellence.
SME Growth Support Associate
Edge Growth
Johannesburg, South Africa
02.2017 - 05.2021
Experienced SME Growth Support Associate at Edge Growth from February 2017 to May 2021, instrumental in developing and implementing the company's business model for effective Enterprise and Supplier Development
Played a pivotal role in driving the growth and development of small businesses through stakeholder management, program design, mentor management, bootcamp management, and IP development
Led the expansion of bootcamp offerings, tailored content to address COVID-19 challenges, and provided expert advice on systems analysis and design
Managed a team of mentors, developed mentor management strategies, and contributed to the creation of empowering products for small businesses.
SME Growth Support Project Manager
Edge Growth
Johannesburg, South Africa
02.2016 - 02.2017
Experienced SME Growth Support Project Manager at Edge Growth, responsible for creating and establishing the bootcamp pillar within the organization
Expanded the range of topics and recruited additional facilitators to enhance offerings, organizing over 500 bootcamps with +600 attendees in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban
Managed Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with external service providers, conducted sourcing and screening activities, and oversaw contract management processes
Conducted over 1,000 SME screenings, executed comprehensive diagnostics processes, and ensured smooth onboarding into programs
Designed and delivered Contribution Compass bootcamps, conducted profiling and analysis, and facilitated workshops to address business challenges and foster growth
Provided critical support across various functions, enabling the smooth execution of Enterprise and Supplier Development programs.
Senior Programme Manager
Secolo Consulting
05.2013 - 02.2016
Experienced Senior Programme Manager with a focus on driving business growth through compelling programme content development
Conducted market analysis, identified content themes, and briefed sales teams on event opportunities
Collaborated with marketing and delegate sales teams to maximize revenue and attendance
Developed conference agendas, secured senior management speakers, and led content-led promotions
Managed programme budgets, resources, and third-party contributions
Successfully produced and delivered large-scale conferences in various African countries
Negotiated partnerships, built databases, and conducted research for effective marketing campaigns
Built relationships with industry professionals to create successful conferences.
Education
Graduate Diploma in Marketing -
IMM Graduate School of Marketing
Bsc Hons in Counselling -
ZOU
01.2025
Programme Management: A Monitoring and Evaluation Approach -
UCT
10.2021
PRINCE 2 certified Practitioner -
People Cert
05.2020
Change Management -
UCT
11.2019
Contribution Compass accredited facilitator -
Sirdar
06.2017
Skills
Project Management
Client Engagement and Business Development
Strategic Planning and Operational Excellence
Entrepreneurship and SME Development
Leadership and Team Management
Adaptability and Innovation
Financial Management and Reporting
Communication and Stakeholder Management
Analytical Thinking and Problem Resolution
Passion for People Development
Roles And Responsibilities
Amabhubesi Conference and Training, Programme Manager
Marcus Evans, Researcher and Marketing Campaign Manager
Cresta Hospitality Group, Sales and Marketing Administrator
Debra's professional background showcases her diverse experience and commitment to fostering growth and development in others. With a solid foundation in project management, customer service, sales and marketing, as well as conferencing and events, she possesses a unique skill set that she has effectively utilized across various roles. Her career progression has led her to specialize in creating meaningful impact within organizations and positively influencing the lives of others. Debra's work spans multiple industries in the private sector, complemented by her expertise in project management, strategy, and operations, which she has honed throughout her professional journey. This broad experience has provided her with a well-rounded perspective and an appreciation for complex problems, enabling her to effectively communicate and solve challenges in dynamic environments. Her ability to consider the broader system and make informed decisions proves invaluable in her work.
Areas Of Interest
Co-founder of PanAfricanGirlsRead Book Club
Building meaningful and resilient businesses
Travelling: seeing the world from different lens
Curating conversations with authors
Personal Information
Title: Programme Delivery Manager & SME Business Development Specialist
References
Contact details available on request
Timeline
Programme Delivery Manager
Edge Growth
06.2021
SME Growth Support Associate
Edge Growth
02.2017 - 05.2021
SME Growth Support Project Manager
Edge Growth
02.2016 - 02.2017
Senior Programme Manager
Secolo Consulting
05.2013 - 02.2016
Graduate Diploma in Marketing -
IMM Graduate School of Marketing
Bsc Hons in Counselling -
ZOU
Programme Management: A Monitoring and Evaluation Approach -