Homeless Service Centre Manager: Muizenberg

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a new Homeless Support Centre manager to join our Muizenberg team in mid February 2025. Along with the centre in Claremont, the Muizenberg centre provides the first 2 phases of intervention of the full U-turn programme in the Southern Suburbs. The centre manager reports directly to the operational management for the Southern Suburbs and falls under the clinical direction of the area’s clinical manager.

This position:

The Centre manager is responsible for leading the service delivery and intervention team to meet the outcomes of the centre as part of the full journey. The successful candidate will be based at the centre, but also be very involved in the community building and maintaining relationships and collaborating with various stakeholders. It will also require the person to engage with homeless clients often still in active addiction and a thorough understanding of addiction will be beneficial.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres

U-turn’s Service Centres provide services to people living on the streets in order to prepare them for and to support them on a journey of change. This includes providing food and clothing (and in some cases access to a shower and a bed for the night), therapeutic and development based interventions, and recovery support for those struggling with addiction. The ultimate aim of the Service Centre is to prepare individuals to participate in our work-based rehabilitation programme.

Key areas of responsibility

Oversee & coordinate day-to-day operations in order to meet the outcomes of the Centre
Manage and develop the staff and volunteers on site effectively
Ensure that daily services are delivered safely, effectively and efficiently at the Service Centre
Take part in service delivery, client discussions, disciplinary conversations with clients and maintain the frame-work for client’s recovery at all times.
Build and improve the understanding of U-turn's work amongst partners & community (e.g. field workers’ forum, CID field workers etc.)
Manage and maintain the logistical operations of the centre ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment is maintained

Experience and Skills

Experience in management with string networking and communication skills
Driver’s license is required
Experience having worked with people either in active addiction or in recovery
Strong logistical and administrative skills
The ability to problem solve and find solutions often with scarce resources

Personal attributes

Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
Strong leadership with a collaborative mind set.
Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Operational Area Manager: Southern Suburbs, Cape Town

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a senior operational manager to join our Southern Suburbs team in Cape Town from 1 February 2025. The Operational Management is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day running of the Units that make up the full Life Change program within the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town.

This position:

Reporting directly to the Chief Programmes Officer, the Operational Manager works closely with the Clinical Manager to ensure seamless delivery of services, operational efficiency, and alignment with U-turn’s mission and values in order to meet the outcomes of the programme. This is an exciting opportunity to help set up sites and streamline systems and processes that will support those journeying out of homelessness.

This position will require the successful candidate at least 5 years’ management experience, project development and implementation experience, networking skills and an orientation towards training and development of staff.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres

U-turn’s Service Centres provide services to people living on the streets in order to prepare them for and to support them on a journey of change. This includes providing food and clothing (and in some cases access to a shower and a bed for the night), therapeutic and development based interventions, and recovery support for those struggling with addiction. The ultimate aim of the Service Centre is to prepare individuals to participate in our work-based rehabilitation programme.

Work-readiness programme

The work-readiness programme provides work-based rehabilitation and skills development training to prepare clients for integration into employment and the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application continues for as long as needed (average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Transitional Accommodation

We run transitional accommodation enabling clients on Work-readiness to move into group homes when leaving homeless shelters. These homes are managed by a house-manager who, along with therapeutic staff and works-site managers assist clients along the full Life Change journey.

Social Enterprises

Actual work-experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

Key areas of responsibility

Team Leadership
○ Lead and manage operational team, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.
○ Coordinate closely with the Clinical Programme Manager to ensure that clinical and operational strategies align and that programme outcomes are met
○ Alongside the clinical manager, facilitate communication between teams and departments to maintain a unified approach.
Staff Management
○ Participate in the appointment and onboarding of all new site managers (Service Centres, PDTs and Transitional Home) in your area.
○ Provide direct line-management to Service Centre and Transitional House managers in your area (Appraisals, growth goals, performance management and disciplinaries)
Programme Implementation
○ Oversee logistics, scheduling, and resource allocation to sites in your area
○ Ensure all operational elements align with programme objectives and participant needs.
○ Support continuous improvement of programme processes based on feedback and outcomes.
Operational Oversight
○ Develop and implement operational systems, policies and procedures to ensure effective
programme delivery.
○ Appoint and train Health and Safety officers for each site and conduct regular audits to ensure compliance
○ Conduct regular Risk assessments and work with teams to mitigate these.
Resource and Budget Management
○ Manage budgets and ensure cost-effective use of resources for all programme phases.
○ Oversee procurement, facility management, and other operational needs.
○ Prepare detailed reports on resource usage and operational efficiency.
Compliance and Reporting
○ Ensure compliance with organisational policies, legal standards and funding requirements.
○ Compile and present operational reports to the Chief Programmes Officer and other stakeholders.
○ Maintain accurate records and documentation for auditing and evaluation purposes.
Stakeholder Engagement
○ Collaborate with community partners, local authorities, and service providers to enhance
operational capacity.
○ Represent U-turn at relevant meetings, events, and forums.
Expansion
○ Under the direction of the CPO and Chief Business Development Officer, work alongside the Clinical and Social Enterprise managers to identify and set up new sites.
Systems
○ Use and Contribute to existing planning & record keeping systems to ensure continuous
improvement of your areas of responsibility

Experience and Skills

Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
At least five years’ experience in management.

Personal attributes

Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
Strong leadership with a collaborative mind set.
Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Homeless Service Centre Manager: Muizenberg

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a counsellor to join our Cape Town CBD Team from the 1st of March. They will be based at The Hope Exchange campus and form part of the Interdisciplinary team providing therapy to clients on the work-readiness programme. They will report to the Clinical manager in their area.

This position:

This is a full-time position and will require the person to run processes and skills groups as well as counsel individual clients with a range of intervention needs. Diagnoses range from substance dependency, personality disorders, depression and anxiety disorders to trauma processing and debriefing. The successful candidate will need experience in addiction treatment and will benefit from having experience in CBT and DBT training. Clients will be in a strong clinical case-magnet structure with either an Occupational Therapist or a Social Worker, and where indicative, will be referred to the counsellor for additional intervention as and when needed.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres

U-turn’s Service Centres provide services to people living on the streets in order to prepare them for and to support them on a journey of change. This includes providing food and clothing (and in some cases access to a shower and a bed for the night), therapeutic and development based interventions, and recovery support for those struggling with addiction. The ultimate aim of the Service Centre is to prepare individuals to participate in our work-based rehabilitation programme.

Work-readiness programme

The work-readiness programme provides work-based rehabilitation and skills development training to prepare clients for integration into employment and the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application continues for as long as needed (average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Work-readiness programme

The work-readiness programme provides work based rehabilitation and skills development training to prepare clients for integration into employment and the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application continues for as long as needed (average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Key areas of responsibility

Facilitate and co-facilitate process and skills groups (or any other groups)
Provide individual counselling to up to 16 clients per week, as referred by caseworkers
Provide Crisis intervention to clients when needed
Join panel discussions and Interdisciplinary meetings
Assist clinical manager to coordinate and provide staff training on recovery and therapeutic approaches
Provide recovery support to clients that have relapsed
Take part in programme development

Experience and Skills

Relevant counselling certification (the following certification will be considered: HPCSA, Relevant ACCSA certification)
Registration with relevant counselling boards (BAPSA, HPCSA, CCSA etc.)
At least 3 years’ experience of working in the field of addiction
Experience working with clients with a variety of diagnosis’

Personal attributes

Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
Strong leadership with a collaborative mind set.
Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Coffee Shop Manager : CBD

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a full time Coffee Shop Manager to join our Retail Team in Cape Town, CBD from 1 March 2025.

This position:

There is an opportunity for a Coffee Shop Manager position with U-turn Homeless Ministries, which will offer a meaningful and rewarding opportunity for someone with barista and coffee shop management experience. The role combines both operational responsibilities and a focus on social impact by supporting and guiding individuals who have experienced homelessness and are now in the process of rebuilding their lives through work and rehabilitation.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Social Enterprises

Actual work-experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

Key areas of responsibility

Possess hands-on experience in successfully establishing and launching coffee shops
Oversee daily coffee shop operations, ensuring smooth service, efficient processes, and high customer satisfaction.
Lead and support a team of sales assistants, all of whom are currently on U-turn’s work- rehabilitation program.
Work to increase sales and profitability while managing costs effectively.
Provide exceptional customer service, ensuring a positive and welcoming environment.
Passion for development and have a strong desire to see people grow, with an understanding of developmental work and working in a rehabilitation context.
Comfort with and passion for working in an organization with strong Christian motivations.
Ability to manage and inspire a diverse team, fostering a positive work environment

Experience and Skills

Prior experience as a barista or in coffee shop management, with a passion for coffee and customer service.
Knowledge of health and safety regulations, food safety standards, and legal compliance
Strong ability to engage with customers and ensure a welcoming, positive atmosphere.
Skilled in ensuring the quality and consistency of coffee drinks, as well as maintaining excellent presentation.
Proven leadership ability to manage a team, with excellent communication skills to provide direction and support.
Experience with marketing strategies, including managing promotions and social media accounts.

Personal attributes

Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
Strong leadership with a collaborative mind set.
Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Homeless Service Centre Therapeutic Case-worker : Pretoria

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. Powered by Jump Start, U-turn is launching their first Homeless Service Centre in Pretoria and is looking for a therapeutic caseworker to join their team starting on the 1st of February. This position is open to Occupational Therapists, Social workers or Counsellors to apply for.

This position:

The successful candidate will work with the service delivery team to create a therapeutic environment geared at preparing individuals for the journey off the street. Along with the operational manager they will be responsible for the outcomes of the centre. U-turn’s regional clinical manager will provide supervision and feedback as well as the necessary training in order to implement the model. This is an exciting opportunity and will require the successful candidate to have a pioneering mind set as the Centre will be the start of developing the full model in Pretoria and will require networking, learning and personal growth.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres

U-turn’s Service Centres provide services to people living on the streets in order to prepare them for and to support them on a journey of change. This includes providing food and clothing (and in some cases access to a shower and a bed for the night), therapeutic and development based interventions, and recovery support for those struggling with addiction. The ultimate aim of the Service Centre is to prepare individuals to participate in our work-based rehabilitation programme.

Work-readiness programme

The work-readiness programme provides work-based rehabilitation and skills development training to prepare clients for integration into employment and the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application continues for as long as needed (average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Transitional Accommodation

We run transitional accommodation enabling clients on Work-readiness to move into group homes when leaving homeless shelters. These homes are managed by a house-manager who, along with therapeutic staff and works-site managers assist clients along the full Life Change journey.

Social Enterprises

Actual work-experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

Key areas of responsibility

Render therapeutic services within the Service Centre context towards meeting the outcomes of the centre. This includes direct and indirect
Supervise all therapeutic staff based at the site as well as students that work with homeless individuals. This includes conducting weekly case-discussions, planning for and training on specific interventions such as activity groups / change readiness sessions, motivational sessions and assisting with implementation of initial individual development plans.
Case-manage all clients entering recovery, completing relevant documentation and referrals as well as conduct case discussions with partnering organisations.
Form part of the interdisciplinary team across the client flow journey. This includes working on the same long-term outcomes for the whole client flow journey and conducting handovers to Work-readiness as well as receiving referrals from Work-readiness.
Oversee group and individual sessions as part of the intervention strategy at the centre. This might include training of peer workers and or liaising with external service providers
Provide Case related crisis intervention such as traumatic incidents as they arise, assessments and referrals to acute intervention options.
Attend and participate in own supervision consultation sessions and participate in training and professional growth opportunities, attend to CPD requirements as per relevant board
Use and contribute to existing planning & record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility

Experience and Skills

Relevant therapeutic qualification and up to date registration what relevant statutory boards
Strong clinical reasoning skills and networking ability
Training in Group facilitation and good administration skills
Ability to manage boundaries in a non-judgemental and non-threatening way
The ability to work effectively within a team and problem solve challenges
Driver license will be required

Personal attributes

Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
Strong leadership with a collaborative mind set.
Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Administrator : Homeless Service Centre (Muizenberg)

Summary

U-turn’s Muizenberg Homeless Service Centre is looking for an Administrator to join their team
starting from the 13th of January. They will report directly to the Centre Manager on site and form part of the broader client facing team of the full programme in the Southern Suburbs.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work opportunities (offered in our social enterprises – such as The Table Cafe) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres

U-turn’s Service Centres provide services to people living on the streets in order to prepare them for and to support them on a journey of change. This includes providing food and clothing (and in some cases access to a shower and a bed for the night), therapeutic and development based interventions, and recovery support for those struggling with substance abuse. The aim of the Service Centre is to help people leave the streets long-term by preparing them to take part in our work readiness programme or equal programmes developed by registered partners.
Key areas of responsibility

Reception Duties for the centre (answer calls, answer queries, receiving guests etc).
Data capturing (service Logs, donation logs, volunteer hours etc)
Admin Support for SC Team (upload forms, prepare physical files, update schedules, take meeting notes etc)
Office Administration (Petty Cash, office supplies, programme material and supplies)
Stock Control (voucher stock control, manage food and voucher shop stock, request new stock, assist with donation pick-ups and deliveries)
Assist with Service delivery (as needed get involved with services as homeless people access the centre)
Use and Contribute to existing planning & record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility.

Experience and Skills

Excellent administrative skills including managing data and record keeping
Strong IT skills including good background and experience in Google Suite
Strong communication skills; oral and written.
Attention to Detail
Driver’s license (desirable)

Personal attributes

Resourceful and emotionally mature individual that is not easily flustered
Ability to self-motivate, and work with minimal supervision
Collaborative team player, concerned with team success as well as individual performance
Problem solver who is open to change and able to take initiative.
Willingness to learn and grow personally.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Chef: The Table Café, Kirstenhof

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work opportunities (offered in our social enterprises – such as The Table Cafe) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position

U-turn have recently taken over the running of The Table Café in Kirstenhof, Cape Town, and we are looking for a chef to join the team. This role will be responsible for running the kitchen and also support with preparing food for catering events within The CHS Life Centre where the café is located. The Table Café is a developmental workspace for people on the U turn programme – called Champions – and the candidate will be working closely with the Champions to train, mentor and support.

The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organisation with strong Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally) and is excellent at running a kitchen and producing high quality tasty food. This is a full-time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Food preparation & cooking: Prepare and cook a variety of dishes in line with the cafe’s menu. Ensure high-quality food standards are consistently met and food delivered in a timely manner.
Food safety & hygiene: Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen, adhering to food safety regulations and health & safety guidelines.
Stock management: Assist with ordering, storing, and managing ingredients, ensuring stock levels are maintained and ingredients are fresh.
Customer service: Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure timely and accurate food service, catering to customer preferences and special dietary requirements.
Menu development: Contribute to or design a simple yet varied menu, specials and seasonal offerings, keeping in mind customer preferences, cost control and seasonal availability of ingredients.
Training and support: To train, manage and support U-turn Champions working as junior kitchen staff supporting them through the work-based elements of their developmental process.
Event catering: Prepare and cook food required for catering events, ensuring done to a high standard, on time and within budget.
Record keeping: Use and contribute to existing planning & record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility

Experience and Skills

Previous experience in a similar role, preferably in a small café or casual dining setting (essential).
Strong cooking skills, including knowledge of basic techniques and methods for preparing and presenting dishes.
Knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards, including handling and storing food properly.
Ability to work under and prioritise in high-pressure situations
Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Customer focused – understanding the importance of quality, presentation and fast service

Personal attributes

Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to food preparation and presentation, ensuring
consistency and quality in every dish.
Time Management: The ability to work under pressure, stay organized, and meet tight deadlines during busy service periods.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to varying demands, seasonal changes, or special customer requests.
Team Player: Willingness to collaborate with a small team, communicating effectively with
colleagues and front-of-house staff.
Passion for Food: A genuine love for food and cooking, with a desire to create delicious meals that customers will enjoy.
Positive Attitude: A friendly and approachable demeanor, contributing to a welcoming and positive work environment.
Gospel orientation: connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Administrator: Cape Town

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome
homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every
homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway that
addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a
long-term productive member of society.
To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes
rehabilitation from substance abuse, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in
one of our social enterprises. This allows candidates to test and apply the training they’ve received.
Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills
and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully
employed in the modern South African economy.
The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market
employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position

There is an opportunity for a person with strong administrative skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as an Office Administrator at U-turn Homeless Ministries.
Reporting directly to the Unit Manager, the candidate will play an integral in performing
administrative functions to support the daily operations of the business.
This position is suited to someone who has strong multi-tasking capabilities and who will enjoy
applying their skillset to a broad range of functions working within a fast-paced and rapidly growing environment. The ideal candidate will also be someone who is happy to work in an organization with a strong Christian ethos.
Key areas of responsibility

Reception: Answer incoming calls, and welcome guests in a professional manner. Screen calls and take messages. Ensure that staff get their messages timeously. Assist members with queries and escalate if needed.
Work Readiness Intake: Setting up screening dates. Preparation of documentation and updating of files. Prepare for group assessments. Preparation of contracts specific to funding opportunities. Keep onboarding orientation booklet updated and assist case-worker with any administration related to onboarding admin.
Data Capturing: Capturing PDT Service logs, Donation logs and Volunteer’s hour sheets.
Admin support for PDT team: Upload documents such as Disciplinary documents, reports, etc. Contact Point for Partner programmes, Maintain physical files, Prepare daily schedules and assist with preparation of group work. Type up minutes of meetings.
Groups: Assist with IT and/or/ PEx, content contribution and IDT input.
Office Administration: Handle petty cash. Assist with event planning, procurement of program supplies, and sourcing of donations in partnership with local fundraisers. Log tickets.
Planning and Record keeping System: Use and contribute to existing planning and record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of all areas of responsibility.

Experience and Skills

At least 2 – 3 years of experience and knowledge of Office Administration
Experience in Salesforce (an advantage)
A valid driver’s license (essential)
Strong administrative skills
The ability to multitask
High attention to detail
Emotionally mature individual

Desirable

Experience using Salesforce
Experience in presenting findings to expert and non-expert audiences
Ability to train colleagues to routinely and effectively use data collection tools and systems.

Personal attributes

Highly organised
Can-do/flexible approach
Problem solving and innovation
Eye for detail
Proactive, conscientious and accountable
Confident in understanding and manipulating data
Able to work at pace
A client-service orientation
A strong commitment to teamwork
Able to build and maintain excellent working relationships with colleagues and external
stakeholders
Able to work respectfully with people from different backgrounds
A positive, friendly and professional attitude

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Mi-Change National Coordinator: Cape Town

Background

Mi-Change is a non-profit company co-owned by Mould Empower Serve (MES) and U-turn. Both organisations have used vouchers successfully to start people on a pathway out of homelessness. Vouchers reduce street solicitation and cash on the streets, which often fuels addiction and dependency. They are the kindest way to put a person in touch with basic needs and professional support services. More information is available from https://michange.org

MES is a registered not-for-profit company (NPC) that has been changing the hearts of the inner cities of Johannesburg, Cape Town, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and Kempton Park, South Africa since 1986. MES build thriving urban communities and drive essential social change through creating effective and efficient pathways out of poverty and homelessness.

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exist to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, U-turn believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

This position

Mi-Change has recently registered as a separate NPC and is looking for a National Coordinator to help scale MiChange nationally. The vouchers are currently available in Cape Town and in a small part of Johannesburg. The plans for the next two years are for the Mi-Change voucher system to also be functioning across Johannesburg, Pretoria and Gqeberha. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker and entrepreneur that has prior experience in rapidly scaling a project and is happy to work in an organisation with a strong Christian ethos and purpose. This is a full-time position and will be based in Cape Town with flexibility to other cities in South Africa as required for the role.
Key areas of responsibility

Manage Mi-Change and ensure its growing regional operations work efficiently and cost effectively. As the company grows, this will require setting up and modifying organisational systems and operating procedures.
Grow income to sustainability support Mi-Change operations through a variety of mechanisms including sales, funding support and partnerships.
Manage, train and support Mi-Change Regional coordinators in growing and operating their regional hubs. This includes new appointments, performance appraisals & leave requests.
Set up new national and regional partnerships to build the national reach of MiChange, including with resellers and homeless service providers. Oversee regular quality control checks of these partners to ensure the system is being implemented in a way that support the developmental purpose of Mi-Change.
Grow brand awareness and use of Mi-Change through developing and actioning a clear
marketing and communications strategy including communications via website, newsletter, speaking opportunities and media releases
Manage finances to the approved budget and provide financial oversite of regional income and expenses
Report to the board, delivers updates on strategic plan implementation, and get feedback
from board members regarding Mi-Change’s overall direction.
Coordinate learning activities between and across all regions to continue innovating and improving on the effectiveness and uptake of Mi Change.
Use and contribute to growing and supporting monitoring and evaluation systems to measure organisational performance and impact.

Experience and Skills

Experience in rapidly scaling a project, organisation or company
Growth strategy development and then successfully executing this strategy
Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Able to use initiative and problem solve
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Entrepreneurial mindset.
Strategic thinker
Self-motivated and driven – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident.
Proactive, conscientious and accountable
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good at problem solving and innovation
Able to work respectfully with people from different backgrounds
A positive, friendly and professional attitude

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Marketing and Fundraising Officer: Gauteng

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exist to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnish modern job skills and give 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Position

U-turn is seeking a seasoned marketing and fundraiser to join its team. In this role, the
incumbent will use expert communication skills and a keen sense of initiative to spot
opportunities, develop relationships with potential donors, and manage marketing
campaigns under the management of the Chief Communications Officer.

By coordinating events, creating content, and recruiting donors and supporters, the
marketing and fundraising officer will hone speaking, writing, and leadership abilities while
moving U-turn closer to its financial goals.

The ideal candidate will be motivated, professional, and organized and have a knack for
networking. We’re looking for someone who believes in the mission of U-turn and has
exceptional drive for furthering our fundraising efforts as well as strategizing and delivering
on new ones.
Objectives of this role

Promote awareness of the organization’s mission and work.
Cultivate a network of dedicated donors and volunteers
Spot new fundraising opportunities.
Plan fundraising initiatives to help the organization meet financial goals.
Form strong relationships with external stakeholders.
Ensure major donors are satisfied and kept in the loop.

Responsibilities

Research individuals, corporations, and foundations that are aligned to U-turn’s
mission and vision.
Effectively convey the organization’s mission, vision, and programmes to potential
partners.
Write applications and proposals.
Update social media channels and create content where necessary.
Strategize and successfully execute fundraising and marketing campaigns.
Report progress weekly to Chief Communications Officer.

Required skills and qualifications

Certification, diploma, or similar qualification in fundraising/ marketing.
At least three years of experience in fundraising, sales, or marketing.
Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
Strong attention to detail.
Digital Content Creation and graphic design.
Experience in event planning and related marketing.
Competence with donor management systems.
Experience in writing grant proposals, press releases, and fundraising letters.
Confidence in public speaking.
Legal, accounting or Salesforce experience a plus.

Application Question(s):

Do you have the relevant Qualification for this role?
Have you worked in or have experience Marketing & Fundraising?
How many years of experience do you have in Marketing & Fundraising?
What is your salary expectation ?
Have you uploaded your motivational letter?

Experience:

Fundraising: 3 years (Required)

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Charity Shop Manager: Southern Suburbs

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exist to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnish modern job skills and give 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as Shop Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their professional
retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail
skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person
will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently
on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong
Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally)
and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Charity Shop Manager: Northern Suburbs

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exist to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnish modern job skills and give 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as Store Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their professional
retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail
skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person
will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently
on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong
Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally)
and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Propagation Manager: Living Roots Wholesale

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exist to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnish modern job skills and give 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position

Living Roots is opening a wholesale indigenous plant nursery in Kenilworth Cape Town which will also act as a real-world training worksite for Champions on the U-turn Work Readiness programme. The Propagation Manager will drive plant production at our Wholesale Nursery with a focus on producing bulk quantities of excellent quality indigenous plants. Their work will involve planning, co-ordinating and supervising the activities of the Champions to achieve our production targets. The ideal candidate is
someone who has a horticultural qualification and work experience in plant propagation and is happy to work in an organisation with a strong Christian ethos and purpose. This is a full-time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage Living Roots Wholesale site and all its operations to produce bulk quantities of excellent quality indigenous plants to meet required targets.
Manage staff, champions on the U-Turn Work Readiness Programme and volunteers – including support, new appointments, performance appraisals, leave requests, submission of weekly timesheets etc.
Train and mentor staff and Champions on propagation and growing techniques
Working with wholesale clients including, compiling and sending out availability list weekly,
engaging with wholesale clients over email and the phone, taking and packing orders for clients
and scheduling plant deliveries.
Establishing and running a garden club at the High School to teach, involve and inspire the
students in all things green and growing.
Care, maintenance and upkeep of the school garden beds with input and guidance from the school caretaker and within constraints of water, budget and time available.
Maintain health and safety for the propagation site
Stay up to date with the latest information, research and techniques of propagating indigenous plants
Use and contribute to the existing planning and record keeping systems.

Experience

A horticultural qualification and work experience in plant propagation (compulsory).
A broad knowledge of plants and their identification (compulsory).
Driver’s License (preferable).
Indigenous & fynbos species knowledge and experience in propagation. IPM & organic methods of growing (preferable).

Essential skills and personal attributes

An excellent eye for detail – natural ability to constantly monitor and tweak growing conditions to achieve maximum growth in the shortest time.
Confident communicator – both written and verbal and able to interact well with a variety of different people
Good computer skills – Microsoft Applications and ability to quickly pick up Point of Sale system
Strong numerical skills – for both plant care and stock management
Excellent organisational and administrative skills with a clear ability to prioritise
Well-developed interpersonal skills and able to motivate, train, coach and mentor people
Self-motivated and able to work within a satellite team environment
A resourceful individual that is not easily flustered and able to take initiative
Flexible and copes well with change
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Willingness to learn and grow both professionally and personally

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Retail Area Manager : Cape Town (Northern Suburbs)

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exist to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnish modern job skills and give 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-turn team as a Retail Area Manager in and around the northern suburbs of Cape Town, thus giving them the opportunity to apply their professional retail skills in a development setting. Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail skills to manage and oversee our retail stores in and around the northern suburbs of Cape Town and to grow sales and profitability. The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organisation with strong Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally) and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage, train and support U-turn Retail Managers under the direction of Retail Operations Manager to run the retail aspect of the stores and in collaboration with the Personal Development team to ensure the shops successfully support and develop Champions on the U-turn Work Readiness
programme
Deal with high level customer complaints and queries
Deal with HR queries across stores including Champion payslips, leave approval and disciplinaries.
Ensure U-turn retail stores are professionally presented and run and following all operational procedures in order to meet monthly income targets.
Ensure that monthly store audits and stocktakes are done to help strengthen overall operations.
Oversee and maintain a high standard across social media platforms – Facebook, whatsapp and tiktok, etc.
Manage the Bizfo POS setup and training of all staff on how to use new parts of the POS. This is then followed up with training manuals.
Use and contribute to existing planning & record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility

Experience and Skills

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting (desirable)
Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback
Emotionally mature individual
Problem solver who is open to change and able to take initiative
Willingness to learn and grow personally
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and
grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Retail Manager: Johannesburg

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exist to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnish modern job skills and give 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-turn team as a
Manager in Johannesburg, thus giving them the opportunity to apply their professional retail skills in a
development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail skills to run our
retail store to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person will be managing a team of sales
assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme. The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organisation with strong Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally) and is excellent at customer service.
This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
support and practicing recovery behaviour
If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Charity Shop Manager: Southern Suburbs

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as Charity Shop Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their
professional retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail
skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person
will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently
on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong
Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally)
and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Charity Shop Manager: Stellenbosch

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as Charity Shop Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their
professional retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail
skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person
will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently
on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong
Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally)
and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Charity Shop Manager: CBD

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as Charity Shop Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their
professional retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail
skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person
will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently
on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong
Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally)
and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Charity Shop Manager: Somerset West

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as Charity Shop Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their
professional retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail
skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person
will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently
on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong
Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally)
and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Charity Shop Manager: Strand

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to give homeless people the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased rehabilitation programme that gives individuals new ways of thinking (via Substance abuse rehab, direct training and Occupational Therapy) as well as work places (offered in our social enterprises) where candidates can test and apply the training they’ve received. In the process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an 83% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

This position– retail with purpose

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-
turn team as Charity Shop Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their
professional retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail
skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person
will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently
on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong
Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally)
and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position.

Key areas of responsibility

Manage a U-turn charity store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do
so.
Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries,
and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions.
Preparing promotional materials and displays.
Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task
allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique
growth journey of each person.
Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience

Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting
(desirable)

Skills

Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
Well-developed interpersonal skills
Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
A collaborative team player – concerned with the team success as well as individual
performance
Ability to motivate, coach and develop people
Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
Enthusiastic and confident
Resourceful
Trustworthy – works with integrity
Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online appliaction form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application plus a photo of yourself. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. Should you not have heard from us within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Join our mission to

equip people

with skills to

overcome

homelessness

Work With Us

Welcome

Homeless Service Centre Manager: Muizenberg

Summary

Background

Service Centres

Next Steps

Operational Area Manager: Southern Suburbs, Cape Town

Summary

Background

Service Centres

Work-readiness programme

Transitional Accommodation

Social Enterprises

Next Steps

Homeless Service Centre Manager: Muizenberg

Summary

Background

Service Centres

Work-readiness programme

Work-readiness programme

Next Steps

Coffee Shop Manager : CBD

Summary

Background

Social Enterprises

Next Steps

Homeless Service Centre Therapeutic Case-worker : Pretoria

Summary

Background

Service Centres

Work-readiness programme

Transitional Accommodation

Social Enterprises

Next Steps

Administrator : Homeless Service Centre (Muizenberg)

Background

Next Steps

Chef: The Table Café, Kirstenhof

Background

Next Steps

Administrator: Cape Town

Background

Next Steps

Mi-Change National Coordinator: Cape Town

Background

Next Steps

Marketing and Fundraising Officer: Gauteng

Background

Next Steps

Charity Shop Manager: Southern Suburbs

Background

Next Steps

Charity Shop Manager: Northern Suburbs

Background

Next Steps

Propagation Manager: Living Roots Wholesale

Background

Next Steps

Retail Area Manager : Cape Town (Northern Suburbs)

Background

Next Steps

Retail Manager: Johannesburg

Background

Next Steps

Charity Shop Manager: Southern Suburbs

Background

Next Steps

Charity Shop Manager: Stellenbosch

Background

Next Steps

Charity Shop Manager: CBD

Background

Next Steps

Charity Shop Manager: Somerset West