Chief Executive Officer Zambian Open University

The Zambian Open University (ZAOU) Limited is an institution of high standing both locally and internationally, whose vision is “to be an internationally recognized University of Excellence in innovative teaching and cutting-edge research.” ZAOU is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to join our executive team and play a pivotal role in shaping the business side of the company. If you are a seasoned visionary leader with a passion for driving strategic growth and have a proven track record of achieving self-sustaining businesses, then this opportunity may be right for you.

1. Position Summary

• The CEO will be responsible for overseeing all the business interests of ZAOU.
• The CEO shall lead and execute ZAOU’s overall business development strategy and align it with the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan.
• This will include identifying new business opportunities, cultivating sustainable partnerships/relationships, and driving sustainable business growth.
• Ultimately, this should result in increased student enrolments and diversified revenue streams.
• The CEO will report to the Board and work very closely with the Vice Chancellor (VC) and other senior leaders to ensure the effective alignment of the University’s academic mission with its business and operational goals.

2. Key Responsibilities

a) Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic business plan to improve the University’s overall performance.
• Provide visionary leadership to identify new business opportunities and operational efficiencies.
• Collaborate with the VC to ensure alignment between academic and business objectives.
• Demonstrate ability to build, lead, and sustain a cohesive and results-driven team.

b) Revenue Growth and Asset Utilization

• Actively prospect for new opportunities through networking, market research, and other channels to identify new business opportunities.
• Develop compelling business proposals outlining solutions, opportunities, and value proposition to secure new businesses.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, market dynamics, and competitive landscape to inform business development strategies.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to revenue generation and student enrolments to continuously measure the business success of the University.
• Oversee the development and commercialization of ZAOU’s assets to ensure that they contribute to the University’s revenue and sustainability.
• Lead negotiations with potential business clients to reach mutually beneficial agreements.

c) Stakeholder Engagement

• Enhance the existing relationships with key stakeholders in order to understand their needs and ensure their satisfaction.
• Identify and forge strategic partnerships with key stakeholders including government agencies, industry partners, donors, alumni, and the broader community to foster long-term partnerships.
• Represent ZAOU in all external business engagements to enhance its profile and attract more business.

d) Team Leadership and Development

• Lead and inspire the ZAOU Limited business team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Manage and mentor a team of business development professionals, setting performance targets and providing coaching to optimize performance.

e) Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate all business risks of ZAOU Limited through effective risk management strategies, internal controls, and compliance measures.
• Achieve ISO 31000 Standard Certification to attain international recognition in risk management.

3. Required Skills

Communication Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication to effectively present proposals, negotiate deals, and build relationships with stakeholders.

Business Acumen

• Proven track record in business development, with a deep understanding of business cycles and strategies.

Market Knowledge

• Comprehensive knowledge of the target market, industry trends, and competitor landscape.

Leadership Abilities

• Ability to lead and motivate a team to achieve organizational goals and objectives.

Strategic Thinking

• Capability to develop and execute strategic business development plans aligned with company goals.

Negotiation Skills

• Expertise in negotiation tactics to secure favourable terms with clients.

4. Key Competencies

• Visionary and entrepreneurial mind-set.
• Change management.
• Team building.
• Strong leadership and people management.
• Results-oriented with a focus on accountability and execution.
• Ability to adapt and thrive in a challenging financial and operational environment.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, results-driven environment and drive organizational change.
• Knowledge of and alignment to ZAOU’s mission and values.

Qualifications and Experience

• Grade 12 certificate with 5 O’ level credits or better, including English and Mathematics.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• A minimum of ten (10) years work experience, post master’s degree qualification, as CEO or Senior Executive in a dynamic business and growth-oriented organization.
• Proven track record in strategic leadership, business development and financial management.
• Strong knowledge of financial regulations, compliance requirements, and risk management practices.
• Membership to a relevant professional body.