Schools Portfolio Manager (Primary Schools) Support – 2026 – SPARK Schools

SPARK Schools is seeking a Schools Portfolio Manager (SPM) to lead the instructional, operational, cultural and financial performance of a portfolio of SPARK schools in Randburg, Gauteng. This is a full-time role reporting to the Head of Primary Schools.

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Quick Info
Location: Randburg, Gauteng (Head Office/Support Office)
Position Type: Full Time
Reporting Line: Head of Primary Schools
Closing Date: Not specified

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About SPARK Schools

SPARK Schools is a social impact disruptor driving change in education through a network of accessible private schools. We deliver transformational education innovation via a personalised learning model that combines classroom teaching with online instruction to reach scholars at an accessible price point. Our aim is to make university education and careers within reach for all.

As a high-growth, mission- and values-driven organisation, SPARK operates 21 primary schools and 5 high schools, serving 17,000 families. Learn more about us on our About page and watch our Vision Video.

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Purpose of Role

The Schools Portfolio Manager coaches, manages and supports school Principals within their designated portfolio to drive scholar achievement, school culture and leadership development, while ensuring profitability and sustainability. The role works closely with SPARK Support Office teams to deliver network-wide alignment and exceptional service to schools and stakeholders.

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Key Responsibilities

Scholar Safeguarding

• Uphold SPARK safeguarding principles and standards across all portfolio schools.
• Monitor safeguarding quality and address safety concerns promptly and with care.
• Support safe, emotionally secure environments for scholars across campuses, classrooms and peer groups.

Academic Outcomes

• Drive strong academic results by ensuring the delivery of SPARK’s instructional model.
• Support Principals to enable personalised learning and progression in line with proficiency targets.

Social Emotional Learning

• Ensure effective implementation of SPARK’s Social Emotional Learning approach across the portfolio.
• Foster environments where scholars develop confidence, resilience and self-awareness appropriate to their development.

Parent Engagement & Stakeholder Relationships

• Maintain engaged, informed parents aligned to SPARK’s educational approach.
• Build strong partnerships to support scholar learning and the overall school experience.
• Act as the primary liaison between the SPARK Support Office and the portfolio schools.

Business Performance & Operational Excellence

• Understand drivers of school profitability and support retention, cost optimisation and, where relevant, collections.
• Collaborate with school leaders to implement robust improvement plans and maintain compliant, well-run operations.

People, Culture & Leadership

• Enable staff to thrive by reinforcing SPARK’s purpose and values, and supporting coaching and development.
• Provide guidance to Principals on leadership challenges and stakeholder matters.
• Support staff well-being in partnership with Human Capital and maintain professional school environments.

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Minimum Requirements

Education

• B.Ed. or PGCE; SACE accreditation

Experience

• 3–5 years leading leaders and/or a team of school leaders in management and instruction with a proven record of high achievement
• Experience with labour law

Competencies

• Critical thinking for strategic planning, data analysis and problem-solving
• Professional, clear written and verbal communication tailored to the audience
• Initiative, resilience and the ability to lead in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and a broad view of the big picture
• Ability to consolidate feedback into clear, high-leverage actions

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Remuneration & Benefits

• Fair market–linked remuneration
• Performance-based annual bonuses and increases
• Above-average annual leave
• Life, disability and funeral cover
• Wellness support and educational support
• Study leave, professional development, mentoring and career growth opportunities
• Employee discounts on school fees

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Application Process

To apply, please visit our Official Careers Portal and submit your application online. If you have any questions about the role, you may reach out through the Careers Portal.

How to Apply: Official Careers Portal

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Legal & Equality

SPARK Schools is an equal opportunities employer. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with Employment Equity goals. SPARK Schools encourages persons with disabilities to apply. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.