Job Description

The Placemaking Project Assistant will support the planning, design, and implementation of public space projects that enhance the place experience of the V&A Waterfront. This role provides hands-on experience in urban placemaking, cultural programming, and project coordination. The incumbent will be involved in research, stakeholder engagement, administrative tracking, and project execution, ensuring that public spaces are inclusive, vibrant, and well-maintained.This role is ideal for a motivated graduate eager to develop experience in placemaking, urban design, and public space management within one of South Africaxe2x80x99s most dynamic waterfront precinctsJob Objectives:Research & Data Analysis

• Conduct research on best practices in placemaking, public space activation, and urban design.

• Monitor and analyze open space initiatives, identifying opportunities for improvements and innovation.

• Facilitate, track and evaluate project impact using a test-and-learn approach, ensuring continuous assessment and refinement.

Project Coordination & Implementation

• Assist in the development and execution of placemaking projects, ensuring alignment with strategic goals, and roll-out on site.

• Support project planning by managing timelines, tracking milestones, and maintaining detailed project documentation.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, operations, and development, to integrate placemaking strategies into broader precinct initiatives.

• Ensure the successful execution of public realm enhancements, which could include projects related to seating, signage, shading, play areas, and public art installations.

• Recordkeeping, and tracking of projects and project material

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including artists, designers, businesses, and city officials when called upon as required on a project-by-project basis.

• Support outreach efforts by assisting with community consultations, ensuring inclusivity and consensus-building.

• Prepare reports, presentations, and written content for newsletters, websites, and social media to document and share project insights.

• Facilitate clear and professional communication across all channels, including emails, phone calls, and in-person meetings.

• Identifying and report on trends in the industry/ best practice, as well as conceptualize creative ways to communicate V&A projects and installations in fun and relevant ways on social/digital media.

Administrative & Financial Support

• Record, track, and organize project progress, ensuring efficient workflow and documentation.

• Support budget management by tracking expenses and preparing financial reports where relevant

Multi-Project Management & Professionalism

• Assist with management of multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring seamless task transitions and adherence to deadlines.

• Uphold professionalism in all interactions, setting clear expectations and maintaining accountability.

• Assist in managing the Placemaking Furniture kit and moving these across the property.

• Align all work with the V&A Waterfront strategies (such as commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and engaging public spaces).

• Occasionally assist with facilitation of events and brand activations.

Educational Requirements

• Relevant Tertiary Degree (e.g. Urban Studies/Planning/ Design)

Knowledge Requirements

• Knowledge and passion for the intersection of culture, community and economic development.

• Public spaces, urban planning and urban design, urban regeneration, and placemaking; and how these concepts shape urban spaces and influence everyday lives

• Consumer behaviour and insights

• Community organizations, -involvement, and -engagement

• International and national urban trends (e.g. public space management, arts, culture, urban issues, accessibility)

• Branding, signage and wayfinding

• Policy and strategy creation

• Project management and programme development

• Reporting tools and processes; and evaluation/tracking of existing processes and projects

Skills Requirements

• Strategic Thinking & Problem-Solving skills

• Creativity and an xe2x80x9cEye for aesthetics"

• Independent & Team Collaboration xe2x80x93 Works efficiently alone and with others.

• Project Management xe2x80x93 develops, actions, and tracks progress, meets deadlines.

• Communication xe2x80x93 Strong written, presentation, and correspondence skills.

• Organization & Multitasking xe2x80x93 Manages multiple tasks with attention to detail.

• Community & Design Knowledge xe2x80x93 Familiarity with global, local projects, initiatives, art, and design.

• Administration xe2x80x93 ability to manage budgeting, scheduling, and documents.

• Adaptability & Problem-Solving xe2x80x93 Navigate complex, multi-stakeholder projects, and changing urban conditions.

• Emotional intelligence & relationship-focused

Experience Requirements

• Urban Studies, Planning and/or Design experience/ knowledge would be advantageous

• Community and Social Development experience would be advantageous

• Experience/ and or involvement in Committees, Community Groups, Student Structures/ Team Sports Tourism

• Leadership experience

V&A Waterfront