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Claremont Business School is seeking a highly organised and proactive Personal Assistant to the Managing Director to provide high-level administrative, coordination and support. The successful candidate will play a key role in improving the effectiveness of the Managing Director by managing priorities, coordinating activities across campuses, managing projects, following up on agreed actions and ensuring that important administrative and operational matters are dealt with efficiently.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Administration
- Closing Date: 2026-09-01
Key Responsibilities
- Managing the Managing Director’s diary, meetings, appointments and priorities.
- Coordinating communication between the Managing Director, management, staff and campuses.
- Screening correspondence, requests and routine operational matters and directing them to the appropriate responsible persons.
- Monitoring important communications and highlighting matters requiring the Managing Director’s attention.
- Preparing meeting agendas, briefing notes, reports, presentations and supporting documentation.
- Attending selected meetings, taking accurate minutes and maintaining action trackers.
- Following up managers and staff on agreed actions, deadlines and deliverables on behalf of the Managing Director.
- Maintaining records of outstanding actions, decisions and key follow-up matters.
- Drafting professional correspondence, letters, memoranda, reports and responses.
- Coordinating engagements with universities, professional bodies, regulators, corporate partners and other key stakeholders.
- Tracking accreditation matters, applications, partnerships, contracts, regulatory submissions and strategic projects.
- Assisting with the preparation of management reports and executive information.
- Coordinating travel arrangements, conferences, events and external meetings where required.
- Supporting the Managing Director on special projects and strategic initiatives.
- Ensuring that routine operational matters are appropriately followed up and resolved without unnecessary escalation.
- Performing any other duties reasonably associated with the role.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Accounting, Office Administration or a related field.
- At least 3-5 years’ relevant experience in a Personal Assistant, Executive Support, Administration, Office Coordination, Project Coordination or similar role.
- Experience within education, professional training, consulting or another fast-paced professional environment will be advantageous.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and other digital productivity tools will be an added advantage.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
About the Company
Claremont Business School (CBS) is a private educational institution with operations in Zimbabwe. It was founded by a group of seasoned professionals, each contributing diverse backgrounds and broad expertise. As a business school, CBS is dedicated to delivering education that empowers individuals within the Zimbabwean professional landscape. Its overarching mission, encapsulated by its slogan "Unlocking Unlimited Possibilities," is to foster growth and development for its students.
Unlocking Unlimited Possibilities
Website: https://claremontbs.co.zw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Personal Assistant role in Zimbabwe?
A minimum of a National Certificate in Office Administration (NQF Level 5) or Diploma in Business Administration from a ZIMCHE-registered institution is commonly expected. Employers also value proficiency in MS Office, typing speed of at least 40 wpm, and familiarity with local compliance tools like ZIMRA e-filing basics. Some roles may prefer candidates with short courses in executive support or secretarial studies from institutions like Harare Polytechnic or ZOU.
What does a typical day look like for a Personal Assistant to a Managing Director in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks include managing the MD’s calendar across multiple time zones, drafting formal correspondence in line with Zimbabwean business etiquette, coordinating meetings with stakeholders (including government and private sector contacts), and handling confidential documentation per the Access to Information Act. You’ll also liaise with local service providers (e.g., telcos, banks, couriers) and ensure compliance with local statutory reporting deadlines such as PAYE submissions to ZIMRA.
How does Zimbabwean work culture affect expectations for this role?
Respect for hierarchy and formal communication (e.g., using titles like 'Madam/Sir' in emails and calls) is essential, especially when interacting with senior leadership or external partners. Punctuality is highly valued, and flexibility—such as occasional after-hours support during critical reporting periods (e.g., month-end or ZIMRA filing windows)—is often expected, though overtime must comply with the Labour Act Chapter 28:01.
What career progression opportunities exist for Personal Assistants in Zimbabwean organisations?
With experience and further study (e.g., a degree in Business Management or CIPD certification), many progress to Executive Assistant, Office Manager, or HR Coordinator roles—especially in growing private institutions like Claremont Business School. Some transition into project coordination or administrative leadership positions within education or corporate services sectors, supported by professional networks like the Zimbabwe Institute of Management (ZIM).
What benefits are realistically offered to Personal Assistants in Zimbabwean private institutions?
Standard benefits typically include 30 days’ annual leave, statutory sick leave (up to 90 days over 12 months under the Labour Act), and participation in a registered pension scheme (e.g., NSSA or private fund). Medical aid is increasingly common but varies by employer; some institutions offer group cover through providers like MBCA or NEL Medical Aid, while others provide allowances instead.
How should I apply, and what do Zimbabwean employers specifically look for in candidates?
Submit a concise CV and formal application letter via email or LinkedIn, clearly stating your Zimra PIN and availability for interviews in Harare. Employers prioritise discretion, proven experience managing high-level diaries, fluency in English and at least one local language (e.g., Shona or Ndebele), and evidence of navigating local systems like ZIMRA, NSSA, and RTA registration processes.