ADMINISTRATIVE / EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 51 views

Most employers require at least a National Certificate in Office Administration (NCOA) or a Diploma in Business Administration from a ZIMSEC-accredited institution like Harare Polytechnic or Midlands State University. A degree in Secretarial Studies, Business Management, or related fields is increasingly preferred, especially for executive-level roles, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and local accounting software (e.g., Pastel Partner) is often expected.

Daily tasks include managing correspondence, scheduling meetings, preparing reports, coordinating travel (including domestic flights and road transport), and handling front-desk duties for local clients or government liaison. You’ll often support senior staff with document preparation for statutory submissions (e.g., ZIMRA tax returns or NSSA compliance forms) and maintain physical and digital filing systems aligned with Zimbabwe’s Public Records Act.

Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and formal communication (especially in written English and Shona/Ndebele where appropriate) are highly valued. Employers expect discretion with sensitive information, flexibility during peak periods (e.g., month-end reporting or budget cycles), and willingness to assist across departments — reflecting the common 'jack-of-all-trades' expectation in many Zimbabwean SMEs and NGOs.

With experience and further study (e.g., CIMA Certificate or ZICA qualifications), you can advance to Office Manager, HR Coordinator, or Project Support Officer — particularly in growing sectors like mining services, development agencies, or financial institutions. Some professionals transition into training roles or start small administrative support businesses catering to SMEs in Harare or Bulawayo.

Standard benefits include 22–30 days of annual leave, statutory sick leave, and participation in the NSSA pension scheme. Many medium-to-large employers provide basic medical aid through providers like MBCA or NEL, though coverage varies; some also offer transport allowances or meal vouchers, especially in urban centres where fuel and public transport costs are high.

Apply via email with a tailored CV and cover letter addressed to the hiring manager — avoid generic applications, as local employers value attention to detail and local context. They prioritise proven reliability (often verified through references), fluency in English and at least one local language, familiarity with Zimbabwean statutory requirements (e.g., PAYE, VAT), and evidence of problem-solving in resource-constrained environments.