The Director of Corporate Communication and Marketing x1

The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) is the largest and comprehensive Open & Distance electronic Learning (ODeL) university in Zimbabwe that offers lifelong learning in an affordable and flexible manner.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced professionals to fill vacant posts that have arisen within the University.

DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING [3 YEARS CONTRACT RENEWABLE SUBJECT TO SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE]

Reporting to the Vice Chancellor

SCOPE OF THE JOB

The Director of Corporate Communication and Marketing will oversee the effective and efficient running of the operations of the Corporate Communication and Marketing teams in collaboration with all units in the University. This is in line with the overall University corporate communication and marketing strategy and policies aimed at creating and upholding a positive University brand image in support of the University vision and mission.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Creating and promoting of a departmental culture that promotes University integrity, high performance, continuous improvement and commitment to quality;

• Playing an active part in the creation of long, medium and short term communication and marketing strategies in conjunction with the marketing team in order to enable cultivation and enhancement of strong and meaningful relationship with target audience, external partners, and key media outlets, which favourably positions the University in the market;

• Setting performance objectives and targets for the marketing and public relations team and monitoring performance of team members;

• Partnering with management teams throughout the University for the purposes of formulation and execution of strategies, solutions and opportunities pertinent to those issues;

• Overseeing the creation of University marketing and public relations content, for example, newsletters, blogs, social media management, annual reports and other marketing and public relations collateral materials;

• Leading on Online web content and communications;

• Being the spokesperson and lead point person of the University in conventional media interactions such as newspaper, radio and television interviews ensuring a positive portrayal of the University at all times;

• Coordinating and organizing preparation of presentations, speeches, talking points and other external media relations materials;

• Communicating University success stories through various channels including videography and photography;

• Running a viable and effective Information system for the University for both internal and external clients;

• Developing and coordinating programmes for visitors to the University;

• Advising the Vice Chancellor in all matters relating to information and public relations; and

• Any other duties as may be assigned by the Vice Chancellor from time to time.

QUALIFICATIONS AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• A Master’s degree in Media, Communications, Public Relations or a related field;

• Experience in web graphics and management is a must;

• A relevant PhD or evidence of studying towards one is an added advantage;

• Minimum of five (5) years of proven working experience in the corporate communication and marketing environment of which three (3) must be at Managerial or similar level, or two (2) at Director or similar level;

• Proven record of crafting and implementing successful corporate communication and marketing strategies and campaigns;

• Strong communication ability (oral and written) and excellent organizational skills; and

• A strong interest in Current Affairs is a must.

REQUISITE SKILLS

• Excellent communication (oral and written) and presentation skills;

• ICT and Digital marketing and Public Relations skills;

• Creative ability;

• Working knowledge of videography and photography;

• Team building and management, interpersonal and excellent leadership qualities; and

• Ability to build and foster long term symbiotic relationships with stakeholders.