Organization Name: Zimbabwe Tourism Authority
# VACANCIES
This role involves leading the bureau’s efforts to attract regional and international conventions, conferences, meetings and events (MICE), fostering relationships with stakeholders and strategizing for national and international MICE marketing initiatives.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Business Development
- Closing Date: 2026-05-05
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement MICE strategies.
- Develop and produce Incentive Travel promotional material.
- Provide guidance in coordinating and supporting bidding for international events as well as running a sustained bidding support program.
- Work with local and state agencies and organizations on partnership opportunities and projects beneficial to MICE tourism.
- Conduct market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competition in the MICE sector.
- Formulating bids working with relevant stakeholders.
- Building and maintaining relationships with existing, new clients and strategic partners.
- Develop strategic partnerships with NGOs, Government ministries, associations and religious bodies.
- Lead marketing initiatives to promote Zimbabwe as a prime convention destination through various channels.
- Oversee the preparation of bids for securing MICE business.
- Supervise the bidding for meetings, conferences and conventions.
- Manage budgets related to bidding and business development activities, ensuring effective allocation of resources.
- Provide regular reports on bidding activities, success, rates and market insights to senior management.
- Work closely with other departments, such as Event Management and Marketing to ensure cohesive efforts in promoting and organising events.
- Development and monitoring of departmental annual work plan and budgets’
- Supervising, mentoring and appraising divisional staff.
- Production of monthly, quarterly and annual reports.
Requirements
- BSc. Honours degree in Marketing or equivalent.
- Master of Science degree (MSc) in Tourism and Hospitality Management or Master’s Degree in Marketing or Master’s in Business Studies and Administration or equivalent.
- Minimum of 7 years’ experience at Senior Management level in a tourism, government, private or any other related industry.
- Knowledge of general management in both public and/or private sector.
- Vast experience in marketing in public and/or private sector.
- Strategic and leadership skills.
- A creative, innovative and strategic thinker with good decision-making skills.
- A highly credible, reliable and trustworthy person.
- Ability to negotiate and network effectively internally and externally.
- An excellent understanding of digital marketing.
- Good communication skills.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit applications by email or hand post enclosing detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) with names and contact details of traceable referees by 05 May 2024. Copies of relevant academic and professional certificates should also be attached and sent to:
The Board Chairman
Zimbabwe Tourism Authority
5th Floor, Tourism House
HARARE
Email: [email protected]
About the Company
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, is Zimbabwe's tourism's governing body formed as an act of parliament and operates under the mandate of the Tourism Act of Zimbabwe of 1996. It has its headquarters in the main business district of the capital city of Zimbabwe, Harare. The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority is mandated to market Zimbabwe and falls under the Ministry Of Tourism.
Website: https://zimbabwetourism.net/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Director of Bidding & Business Development at the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority?
Candidates typically need a Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Tourism, or a related field, with a Master's degree often preferred for a Director-level position. Extensive proven experience in business development, strategic bidding, and project management within the tourism or hospitality sector, demonstrating a strong understanding of market dynamics, is crucial. Professional certifications in project management or strategic marketing can also be highly advantageous.
What do the common day-to-day responsibilities look like for this Director role within the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority?
Daily tasks involve leading strategic bidding initiatives, identifying new business opportunities to grow Zimbabwe's tourism market share, and developing robust business development strategies. This role also requires extensive stakeholder engagement with local and international partners, managing a team, and reporting on performance metrics to senior leadership. You would be instrumental in crafting compelling proposals and fostering lucrative partnerships.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a Director-level role in a Zimbabwean parastatal like the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority?
The work culture in Zimbabwean parastatals often emphasizes professionalism, adherence to established protocols, and a strong collaborative spirit, especially when promoting national interests. Directors are expected to demonstrate strong leadership, strategic foresight, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships with diplomacy and cultural sensitivity. Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and a results-oriented approach are highly valued.
What are the realistic career progression and growth paths for someone in the Director of Bidding & Business Development position at the ZTA?
Career progression from this role could involve advancing to higher executive leadership positions within the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority or other national parastatals focused on economic development. Opportunities may also arise in regional or international tourism organizations, leveraging the extensive experience gained in national tourism promotion and business growth. Continuous professional development and demonstrated impact are key to such advancements.
What kind of typical benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can one expect for a Director position in a Zimbabwean parastatal?
Director-level positions in Zimbabwean parastatals generally come with a comprehensive benefits package, including a competitive number of paid annual leave days and sick leave provisions. Most employers provide robust medical aid scheme contributions for the employee and their immediate family, alongside a structured pension fund or provident fund contribution. These benefits are designed to attract and retain senior talent within the public sector.
What should a job seeker focus on when applying for this role, and what do Zimbabwean employers typically look for in a Director of Bidding & Business Development?
Job seekers should highlight a verifiable track record of successful business development and bidding achievements, showcasing quantifiable impacts on revenue or market growth. Employers seek strong leadership, strategic thinking, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of both the local and international tourism landscape. Demonstrating a proactive approach to identifying and securing new opportunities is highly valued.