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11 hours ago
Golden Knot Microfinance is seeking to appoint an Operations Manager. Are you a commercially driven leader with a track record of growing loan books while keeping risk firmly under control? We’re looking for an Operations Manager to take ownership of our lending business – from portfolio growth and collections to compliance and team performance. This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who can combine business development instincts with disciplined credit and operational management, expanding our reach into the informal sector, SMEs, corporates and salaried/civil-service segments while protecting portfolio quality and profitability
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Banking and Finance
- Closing Date: 2026-07-24
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute business development strategies to grow the loan portfolio across the informal sector, SMEs, corporates, institutions, civil servants and salaried employees.
- Drive customer acquisition and market penetration through strategic partnerships, employer schemes, agent networks and alternative distribution channels.
- Achieve loan disbursement targets while maintaining sound credit underwriting standards.
- Design and implement effective loan recovery and debt-collection strategies to maximise repayments and minimise delinquency.
- Monitor and manage portfolio performance, including Portfolio at Risk (PAR) and Non-Performing Loans (NPLs).
- Strengthen credit risk management processes and ensure high-quality loan assessment and approval.
- Identify new lending opportunities, financial products and strategic partnerships to support growth.
- Ensure full compliance with lending policies, regulatory requirements and internal controls.
- Coordinate internal and external audits and ensure timely implementation of audit recommendations.
- Prepare operational, financial and portfolio performance reports for Executive Management.
- Lead, coach and develop high-performing lending and operations teams.
- Champion customer service excellence and continuous process improvement through digital and operational innovation.
- Manage operational costs while improving productivity and profitability.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Banking, Accounting, Business Management, Economics or a related field.
- A Master’s degree or professional qualification (CFA, ACCA, CIMA, CIS, MBA or equivalent) is an added advantage.
- Minimum 8 years’ experience in banking, microfinance, lending or financial services, including at least 5 years in a management role.
- Strong knowledge of credit management, lending operations, debt recovery, portfolio management and financial services regulation.
- Demonstrated track record of growing loan portfolios and leading high-performing lending teams.
- Achieve budgeted interest income, fee income and profitability targets each financial year.
- Operate within approved budgets and improve the cost-to-income ratio year-on-year.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications expected for an Operations Manager role in a Zimbabwean microfinance institution?
Candidates usually require a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field. Relevant professional certifications in microfinance operations, project management, or risk management are highly advantageous. Practical experience in the Zimbabwean financial sector is also critical for this role.
What does a typical day look like for an Operations Manager at a microfinance institution in Zimbabwe?
A typical day involves overseeing daily loan disbursement and collection processes, managing branch operations, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. You would also be involved in staff supervision, performance monitoring, and implementing operational efficiency improvements across the network. Expect to engage with both internal teams and external stakeholders regularly.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for an Operations Manager in the Zimbabwean microfinance sector?
The work culture often emphasizes resilience, adaptability to changing economic conditions, and strong ethical conduct given the sensitive nature of financial services. High expectations are placed on achieving targets, maintaining strict regulatory compliance, and demonstrating excellent leadership skills within a dynamic and often resource-constrained environment.
What are the realistic career progression paths for an Operations Manager in microfinance in Zimbabwe?
Successful Operations Managers can progress to senior leadership roles such as Head of Operations, Regional Manager, or even Chief Operating Officer within larger microfinance institutions. Opportunities may also arise in related financial services sectors or regulatory bodies, building on a strong operational foundation. Continuous professional development is key to upward mobility.
What are the typical benefits packages offered for an Operations Manager role in Zimbabwean microfinance?
Standard benefits often include medical aid, pension contributions, and a set number of annual leave days as per Zimbabwean labour laws. Some employers may also offer transport allowances, communication allowances, or performance-based bonuses, reflecting the demanding nature of the role and local market conditions.
What should job seekers focus on when applying for an Operations Manager role in Zimbabwe, and what do employers typically look for?
Emphasize your practical experience in microfinance operations, proven leadership skills, and ability to manage teams and achieve targets efficiently. Employers seek candidates with strong analytical abilities, a solid understanding of local financial regulations, and a demonstrable commitment to ethical practices and community development. Tailor your application to highlight these specific competencies.