DIVISION OF OPERATIONS
VACANCY NO: IRC 3568
The University of Botswana (UB), established in 1982, is a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, research, innovation and meaningful societal impact.
As set out in the University Strategy the University of Botswana intends to transform into a High-Performance Organization. The breadth of endeavor and the sharpened strategic focus that the University is adopting through its new strategy requires it to fundamentally rethink and strengthen its internal operating practices to ensure that they are not only efficient and effective but also add value. This will involve comprehensive re-engineering of the University to ensure that it transforms into a high-performance organization.
In this connection, the University is inviting suitably qualified applicants for the position of Chief Operations Officer. This is an Executive Management level position whose role is to provide leadership and strategic direction in the area of University Operations, with a view to fulfilling the University mission and vision as well as being in support of national vision 2036. The incumbent is responsible for leading and overseeing the operational and day-to-day administrative functions of the University, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of support services providing a supportive environment for teaching, research, and engagement.
Primary Duties And Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be expected to (i) Lead and direct the formulation and implementation of the University’s Operations Strategy aimed at ensuring innovative operating approaches to managing the University in an efficient and effective manner, (ii) Lead and Direct the formulation and implementation of the University’s operations plans, and is also responsible for ensuring the alignment of the plans and resources of the Division with the delivery of the University’s Strategy, (iii) Lead and direct the formulation and implementation of the University’s operations policies, (iv) Lead plan and direct the implementation of the functional management of the Divisional Operations, including the budget and staff resources and to create a commitment to quality and effective service delivery for the benefit of students, staff and the University’s stakeholders, (v) Lead and direct the staff of the Division of University Operations and promote a culture of excellence and ensure high levels of performance in line with the University’s core values, (vi) Lead, direct and oversee the implementation the University Human Resources Strategy including management of the recruitment process, policies for compensation and benefits, maintaining effective industrial and labour relations, managing the development of the University’s human capital, (vii) Lead, direct and oversee the implementation of the University Space and Physical Planning Strategy and the management of campus facilities including outsourced services, Security, Fleet Management, and Estates and Facilities Management, (viii) Lead direct and oversee the implementation of the University Information Technology Strategy including networks and systems, infrastructure and hardware, educational technology and software applications, to support internal operations and support the technology enabled delivery of learning solutions to students, (ix) Lead, direct and oversee the implementation of the University Quality Management Strategy ensuring the adoption of university-wide operational quality management policies, principles, standards and procedures, (x) Lead, direct and oversee the implementation of the University Corporate Records Management Strategy ensuring the adoption of university-wide records management policies, principles, standards and procedures, (xi) Lead direct and oversee the implementation of the University Communications and Marketing Management Strategy to promote the image, protect the reputation and provide effective internal and external communication, (xii) Lead, direct and oversee the business development and advancement strategy of the University including fund-raising, developing the business case for innovative and strategic opportunities for the University to drive growth and long term sustainability, (xiii) Provide professional leadership to ensure that the University complies with best practice in terms of governance and management, (xiv) Play a key role in the overall management of the University and to providing leadership and direction to key strategic projects across the University, (xv) Oversee and manage the commercialization of university operations, including the university clinic, sports facilities and other revenue-generating services, Ensure effective implementation of the university risk management framework at a divisional level, (xvi) Undertake any other duties directed by the Vice Chancellor or as required by the University in line with the role.
Required Qualifications: A Masters’ degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, or any of the fields within this portfolio is required. A PhD or equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field will be an added advantage.
Desirable Professional Standing: (i) Professional graduate accreditations and memberships (ii) Continuous professional development certification.
Work Experience: A minimum of fifteen (15) years’ experience, five (5) of which should have been at a senior management level. Experience in higher education is required.
Other Requirements: i. Proven track record in managing large-scale operations, commercialization, and complex administrative functions; ii. Strong understanding of human resources, ICT, facilities management, and financial management; iii. Experience in managing commercial enterprises, health services, or sports facilities is highly desirable; iv. Strong strategic planning and execution skills; v. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills; vi. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage diverse teams effectively; vii. Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Tenure Of Office: The tenure of office for the Chief Operations Officer shall be appointed for a maximum of two (2) terms, each not exceeding five (5) years. An assessment for contract renewal shall be commenced twelve (12) months before the end of the first term.
Remuneration: The University of Botswana offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications. For more information on the University, please visit our website; www.ub.bw
How to Apply: Letters of applicants are to address the stated qualifications and provide other information to assist the University in determining their suitability for the position. Applicants should quote the vacancies of the advertisement, provide current CVs (including telephone/mobile phone, and e-mail), certified true copies of educational certificates and three reference letters submitted directly to the University.
The complete documentation must be sent to: The Head Executive Support Services, Division of the Vice Chancellor, University of Botswana, Private Bag 0022, Gaborone, Botswana; Telephone: (+267) 355 5655/2037, E-mail; Segaetshom@ub.ac.bw.
Applicants should inform their referee/s to: (i) Quote the Vacancy number and position applied for and (ii) submit their references directly to the above address, before the stipulated closing date.
Hand delivered applications should be submitted to the University of Botswana Gaborone campus, at the West Wing of the Administration Building (Block 108), 3rd floor Office 302 or 314.
NB: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
Closing Date: 20 NOVEMBER 2026