Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced persons to fill the vacant post of Director Complaints Handling, Investigations and Administrative Justice that has arisen in the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission.
JOB PURPOSE
To provide strategic leadership and oversight of the Complaints Handling, Investigations and Administrative Justice Department through effective management of complaints, investigations, administrative justice interventions, stakeholder engagement, and implementation of Commission decisions in line with constitutional and international human rights obligations.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Legal
- Closing Date: 2026-07-24
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight of investigations and ensure adherence to quality assurance standards and best practices within the Department.
- Translate organizational goals and objectives into investigation plans and interventions with clear outcomes and impact metrics.
- Lead the transformation of the investigations function to adapt to emerging risks, technologies, and legal frameworks.
- Advise the Executive Management on systemic risks, patterns of human rights violations and policy gaps identified through investigations.
- Establish key performance indicators and quality assurance frameworks to measure effectiveness, timeliness, and deterrent impact of investigations.
- Drive data-driven insights from investigations to inform organizational risk management, policy reform, and prevention strategies.
- Protect and enhance the organization’s reputation by ensuring investigations are conducted with impartiality, independence, and integrity.
- Represent the Commission at high-level forums on protection of human rights, administrative justice, accountability and compliance with national policy/legal frameworks.
- Build and lead a high-performing investigations team, including succession planning and development of specialist skills.
- Oversee resource allocation, budget planning, and strategic investment in tools, training, and technology for the department.
- Produce periodic and special Departmental reports highlighting progress, challenges and recommendations for changes and improvements.
- Technical lead in the development and updating of manuals and tools for the CHI/ AJ Department.
- Follow up and track implementation of Commission decisions and recommendations.
- Performs any other duties within the scope of this job as maybe assigned from time to time by the superiors.
Requirements
- A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree.
- A Master of Laws in Human Rights or related field from a recognised institution is an added advantage.
- At least 10 years of experience in a similar environment.
- Extensive management experience with proven ability to make sound decisions, lead teams effectively, and maintain a strong focus on delivering agreed results within set timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
- Exceptional leadership and people management skills, including the ability to motivate, develop talent, and drive successful change initiatives.
- Skilled at building and sustaining strong, credible relationships with both internal stakeholders and external organizations.
- Adept at analysing complex issues and translating them into clear, practical strategies and actionable plans.
- Possesses strong investigative, analytical, and conceptual abilities.
- Highly ethical, honest, and organized, with a reputation for integrity and professionalism.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Knowledgeable in human rights and administrative justice frameworks.
How to Apply
Applications accompanied by a detailed Curriculum Vitae and certified copies of academic and professional qualifications should be submitted to:
The Human Resources Director,
Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission,
Head Office, 44 Samora Machel Avenue,
Harare
OR send applications to the following email address:
a[email protected] and copying [email protected]
All applications should reach us no later than the close of business on 24 July 2026. Only shortlisted candidates meeting the above requirements will be responded to.
REF Code: HR/002/26 | Vacancy Circular No: 2 of 2026
About the Company
The ZHRC was created by section 242 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe as amplified by the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission Act Chapter 10:30 (2/2012)The Commission is mandated to, among other things;Promote awareness of and respect for all human rights and freedoms;Promote the protection, development and realization of all human rights and freedoms;Monitor and assess observance of human rights and freedoms in Zimbabwe.Conduct research on issues relating to human rights, freedoms and social justice.Receive complaints from people on human rights abuses and to take appropriate action;Protect people against abuse of power and maladministration by the State and public institutions and by officials of those institutions.Make recommendations to Parliament on best ways of promoting, protecting and observance of human rights and freedoms;Investigate the conduct of any authority or person, suspected of violating any of the human rights provided in the Constitution’s Declaration of Rights.Take necessary action to assist victims of human rights violations to receive justice;Visit and inspect prisons, detention places, refugee camps and similar facilities where mentally disordered or intellectually handicapped persons are detained and make necessary recommendations about their conditions to the responsible Minister.Prepare and submit a human rights annual report to Parliament.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and experience needed for a Director of Complaints Handling, Investigations, and Administrative Justice in Zimbabwe?
Candidates typically require a relevant law degree (e.g., LLB) and admission to practice law in Zimbabwe. Extensive post-qualification experience, often 10+ years, in legal practice, human rights, administrative law, or investigations, preferably at a senior management level, is usually essential.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this Director role at the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission?
Daily duties involve overseeing the receipt, assessment, and investigation of human rights complaints, ensuring adherence to principles of administrative justice and fairness. This includes managing a team, developing investigation strategies, reviewing reports, and ensuring compliance with relevant legal frameworks.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a senior legal role within a human rights commission in Zimbabwe?
The work culture emphasizes high professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to human rights and public service. You are expected to operate impartially, diligently, and with a deep understanding of Zimbabwean legal and socio-political contexts while upholding ethical standards.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Director in Complaints Handling and Investigations within a commission like this in Zimbabwe?
Career progression might include moving into higher executive leadership roles within the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission or other governmental/intergovernmental organizations focused on governance, justice, or oversight. Opportunities could also extend to regional or international human rights bodies or expert consultancy roles.
What typical benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can one expect for a senior director position in a Zimbabwean statutory body?
Standard benefits usually include a comprehensive medical aid scheme, a contributory pension fund, and annual leave provisions as per Zimbabwean labour laws and organizational policy. Depending on the specific institution, a company vehicle or housing allowance may also be part of the remuneration package.
What do employers in Zimbabwe typically look for in the application process for a senior legal/human rights role like this?
Employers seek demonstrable leadership experience, a strong track record in legal investigations and administrative justice, and a deep understanding of human rights law specific to Zimbabwe. A well-articulated CV and cover letter highlighting relevant achievements, management capabilities, and a commitment to public service are crucial.