DIRECTOR-GENERAL (DG) – Zimbabwe Foreign Service Institute (Zfsi) 126 views

Key Responsibilities

• Fulfill the mandate of the Institute as outlined in the ZFSI Charter and implement Board decisions.
• Provide strategic leadership and vision for the Institute.
• Contribute to the development and review of the ZFSI Strategic Plan.
• Develop, implement, and monitor work plans, policies, procedures, budgets, and evaluation frameworks.
• Identify emerging training needs and global trends, and lead resource mobilisation efforts.
• Oversee analytical work on national and international developments affecting foreign policy.
• Commission and supervise scholarly research on foreign policy and international relations.
• Ensure governance compliance and effective implementation of the Performance Management System.
• Serve as Accounting Officer and Chief Spokesperson, overseeing financial, asset, and personnel management, and ensure timely submission of audited accounts to the Board.
• Represent ZFSI at high-level forums and manage external communications and public relations.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders and partner institutions and mobilise resources from progressive partners.
• Promote organisational performance and institutional growth.
• Enhance the Institute’s core offerings: diplomatic training, research, and policy advisory services.
• Support student success and service excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Board.

Requirements

• Hold a Ph.D in International Relations, International Studies, Law, Economics and any other related field for a minimum of five (5) years or experience in the foreign service or public service of at least 10 years to enable the candidate to operate at the level of a PhD holder.
• Have at least a record of research and publications in relevant fields with knowledge and skills necessary to assume a senior academic or leadership role in diplomacy/international relations to spearhead the institute into a fully fledged degree issuing institution.
• Possess managerial skills and demonstrate a proven ability to implement strategic objectives and to provide effective institutional leadership.
• Be innovative, self-motivated, results-oriented, and committed to lifelong learning.
• Provide evidence of scholarly engagement published in peer-reviewed journals and active membership in relevant professional bodies.
• Uphold high professional standards, integrity and respect for national values.
• Possess strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Have a clear understanding of the National Development Strategy, Vision 2030, and the Foreign Service Doctrine (2025).
• Proficiency in English and at least one other foreign language.
• Comprehensive understanding of diplomatic functions and international operations.

How to Apply

Applications should be addressed to The Chairperson, Zimbabwe Foreign Service Institute (ZFSI), 18 Windsor Close, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe. Enclose a Cover Letter, a detailed Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of academic qualifications, and names and contact details of three referees. Applications can be submitted via email to [email protected]. Deadline for applications is Saturday, 31 January 2026.