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As part of the implementation of the THRIVE Zimbabwe (Transforming Horticulture for Resilient, Inclusive & Value-driven Exports) programme, COLEAD is recruiting a Programme Coordinator.
The Programme Coordinator will be based in Harare (Zimbabwe) and will work closely with COLEAD’s programme management units in Nairobi (Kenya), Brussels (Belgium) and Lomé (Togo).
About COLEAD
COLEAD is an international non-profit association that supports sustainable agricultural development and works to strengthen the contribution of agri-food systems to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through its development programmes, COLEAD partners with governments, businesses and producer organisations to improve agricultural competitiveness, sustainability and market access.
About the Role
Based in Harare, the Programme Coordinator will oversee the day-to-day coordination and operational management of the THRIVE Zimbabwe programme. The successful candidate will work closely with teams based in Zimbabwe, Kenya, Belgium and Togo while collaborating with government institutions, development partners and private sector stakeholders to strengthen Zimbabwe’s horticultural export sector.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Project Management
- Closing Date: 2026-08-07
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate daily implementation of programme activities.
- Lead planning, implementation, monitoring and reporting of annual work plans.
- Monitor programme performance, milestones, risks and deliverables.
- Identify implementation risks and recommend practical solutions.
- Coordinate technical experts, consultants and implementation partners.
- Supervise development projects benefiting Zimbabwe’s horticultural sector.
- Build and maintain relationships with government, producer organisations, exporters and development partners.
- Represent COLEAD at technical, institutional and policy meetings.
- Coordinate collaboration with the EU Delegation, relevant ministries and sector associations.
- Support programme monitoring, expenditure verification and reporting processes.
- Contribute to communication, visibility and knowledge-sharing activities in line with EU guidelines.
Requirements
- University degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Economics, Management, Project Management or a related discipline.
- Minimum of 10 years’ relevant professional experience.
- Extensive experience managing complex programmes within Zimbabwe’s horticulture or agri-food sector.
- Strong understanding of horticultural value chains and export markets.
- Experience with results-based management, monitoring and reporting.
- Proven stakeholder engagement with public institutions, private sector organisations and development partners.
- Experience working within multicultural or international development environments.
- Excellent programme and project management skills.
- Strong leadership and coordination abilities.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital collaboration tools.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Knowledge of Shona, Ndebele, French, Portuguese or Spanish will be an advantage.
- Experience using digital tools and Artificial Intelligence to improve productivity is desirable.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: colead.zohorecruit.eu
About the Company
COLEAD is a key organisation dedicated to fostering sustainable agricultural growth and development within Zimbabwe. The company actively implements projects and programmes designed to support local smallholder farmers. A notable focus includes assisting Zimbabwean pineapple growers in achieving rigorous organic certification standards. This initiative not only enhances market access for producers but also strengthens the overall value chain, contributing significantly to rural economic empowerment across Zimbabwe.
Empowering Zimbabwe's smallholder farmers for organic certification.
Website: https://colead.link/news/zimbabwe-pineapple-smallholders-achieve-organic-certification/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common educational qualifications and experience required for a Programme Coordinator role in Zimbabwe?
Most employers seek a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Project Management, Social Sciences, or Development Studies, often coupled with professional certifications. Practical experience of 3-5 years in project coordination, monitoring and evaluation, or community development is usually essential. Familiarity with local operating environments and stakeholder engagement within Zimbabwe is also highly valued.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Programme Coordinator in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks often include coordinating project activities, managing budgets, drafting reports, and engaging with local stakeholders and community members. You would also be responsible for monitoring project progress, ensuring compliance with organizational and donor guidelines, and providing administrative support to the programme team.
What is the typical work culture and expectations for a Programme Coordinator role in Zimbabwe, especially regarding flexibility and local engagement?
The work culture often values proactivity, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills for effective engagement with diverse local communities and government departments. Programme Coordinators are expected to be hands-on, often requiring travel to project sites within Zimbabwe and demonstrating cultural sensitivity.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Programme Coordinator in Zimbabwe?
A Programme Coordinator can typically advance to roles like Senior Programme Coordinator, Programme Manager, or Monitoring and Evaluation Manager within the development sector. Further progression often involves specializing in a specific technical area or moving into regional leadership positions with additional experience and qualifications.
What typical benefits (leave, medical aid, pension) can one expect for a Programme Coordinator role in Zimbabwe?
Typical benefits packages usually include standard annual leave, sick leave, and potentially maternity/paternity leave in line with Zimbabwean labour laws. Many employers offer medical aid contributions and, for long-term positions, may include a pension fund or NSSA contributions. Additional benefits can vary widely depending on the employer's size and nature.
How should I apply for a Programme Coordinator role in Zimbabwe, and what do employers typically look for in local candidates?
Applications are usually submitted online through job portals or company websites, requiring a well-structured CV and a tailored cover letter highlighting relevant experience. Employers in Zimbabwe specifically look for demonstrable experience in local project implementation, strong communication skills, and a genuine understanding of the socio-economic context.