Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Gweru
- Category: Communications
- Closing Date: 2026-07-30
Key Responsibilities
- Support alumni engagement, communications, and resource mobilisation activities
- Assist with correspondence, record-keeping, and follow-up for alumni programmes
- Help monitor and report on alumni engagement metrics
- Support communications relating to alumni chapters and diaspora networks
- Provide administrative support for alumni activities
- Assist in the design and production of visual content including flyers, social media graphics, newsletters, banners, and presentation materials for both units
- Develop and manage content for digital platforms, including the website, social media channels, and email communications, covering alumni news, international partnerships, and student mobility programmes
- Support the coordination of alumni events, webinars, and reunions, including pre- and post-event communications
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Media Studies, Public Relations, Marketing, Information Technology, Graphic Design, Multimedia, or a closely related field, atleast a 2.1 Degree class
- Graduated within the last two (2) years.
- Relevant certifications in digital content creation, graphic design, video editing, social media management, web content management, related digital communication tools or a closely related field will be an added advantage.
- Proficiency in graphic design tools (Adobe Creative Suite and/or Canva) or related digital communication tools will be an added advantage.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Familiarity with social media management and digital content creation
- Strong interpersonal and organisational skills
- Self-motivated and adaptable
- Prior internship, attachment, or volunteer experience in alumni relations, communications, marketing, social sciences and/or related field.
- Basic knowledge of CRM or alumni database systems
- Experience with email marketing or newsletter platforms
- An interest in higher education and institutional advancement
How to Apply
About the Company
Midlands State University is a government owned university in Zimbabwe. The university has 9 faculties offering a wide variety of courses and many specialist programmes. The university is accredited through the National Council for Higher Education, under the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education of Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What academic qualifications are typically required for a Graduate Trainee in Alumni Relations in Zimbabwe?
A relevant bachelor's degree, often in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or Social Sciences, is generally required. Strong academic performance is highly valued, along with demonstrable writing and interpersonal skills essential for engagement.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Graduate Trainee in Alumni Relations?
Day-to-day tasks typically involve assisting with alumni database management, preparing communications like newsletters, and supporting event planning for alumni gatherings. You'll also help maintain engagement through social media and direct outreach to former students, ensuring records are up-to-date.
What should a graduate trainee expect regarding work culture and expectations within a Zimbabwean university environment?
Expect a structured and professional environment with an emphasis on respect for seniority and established protocols. Punctuality, initiative, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work collaboratively are highly valued attributes within a Zimbabwean university setting.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Graduate Trainee in Alumni Relations within a Zimbabwean university?
Successful trainees often progress to roles like Alumni Relations Officer or Communications Officer, gaining more responsibility in strategy and implementation within the university. Further specialisation in areas such as fundraising or marketing communications is also possible with acquired experience and additional training.
What typical benefits, such as leave or medical aid, can a Graduate Trainee expect at a Zimbabwean university?
Graduate trainees commonly receive standard benefits including annual leave, sick leave, and often a basic medical aid package. Pension contributions might also be part of the remuneration structure, though this can vary by the specific university's policy.
What's the best way to apply for this role in Zimbabwe, and what key aspects do employers typically look for in applicants?
Applications usually involve a detailed CV and cover letter, submitted according to the job advertisement's specific instructions, often online or to the HR department. Employers look for strong communication skills, a relevant academic background, enthusiasm for alumni engagement, and a clear understanding of the unit's objectives.