Chief Executive Officer

Job description

The Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI), established in 1933 and formally registered under the Registrar of Societies in 1990, is the apex body representing the interests of Zambia’s private sector. With a nationwide membership base that spans across all sectors, ZACCI plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economic future.

ABOUT THE ROLE
The Chamber is seeking an exceptional and visionary leader to serve as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This is a rare opportunity for a transformative professional to take the helm of one of Zambia’s most influential business institutions advancing its mandate to promote private sector growth, drive strategic public-private dialogue and position Zambia as a competitive, innovative, and inclusive investment destination.

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Two (2) Years Contract, Renewable
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Strategic Leadership & Institutional Vision

Provide bold and visionary leadership to position ZACCI as a proactive and trusted voice of the private sector.
Lead the implementation of ZACCI’s strategic plan, aligning institutional priorities with Zambia’s national development agenda and global economic trends.
Build a strong organizational culture rooted in excellence, innovation, and responsiveness.

2. High-Level Representation & Advocacy

Represent ZACCI in high-stakes policy dialogue with Government, Parliament, regional bodies, and international institutions.
Serve as the lead spokesperson on matters affecting business, trade, and investment, articulating evidence-based positions on behalf of the private sector.
Engage in regional and international platforms (e.g., SADC, COMESA, AfCFTA, AU, UN) to advance Zambia’s economic interests.

3. Policy Influence & Thought Leadership

Drive the development of forward-looking policy proposals, position papers and regulatory reviews that advance business reforms.
Influence national and regional policymaking by leveraging research, sectoral insights and data analytics to support advocacy.
Lead ZACCI’s participation in key economic governance processes, including budget submissions, policy roundtables, and legislative reviews.

4. Stakeholder Engagement & Membership Value

Strengthen partnerships with district and provincial chambers, business associations, corporate members, and SMEs across all sectors.
Enhance member value through meaningful programs, capacity building, trade facilitation and access to opportunities.
Foster trust and collaboration between the private sector and public sector institutions.

5. Innovation, Trade & Investment Promotion

Spearhead initiatives that support Zambia’s export readiness, industrialization agenda and participation in global value chains.
Oversee trade missions, business forums, B2B platforms and investment promotion activities to showcase Zambia’s potential.
Champion digital transformation, green economy opportunities and inclusive business models.

6. Financial Sustainability & Resource Mobilization

Develop and oversee the implementation of a robust resource mobilization strategy, including donor partnerships, project funding and revenue diversification.
Ensure prudent financial management and compliance, while enhancing the Chamber’s operational efficiency.

7. Team Leadership & Organizational Development

Inspire, mentor, and lead a high-performing Secretariat, ensuring alignment with ZACCI’s mission and values.
Establish performance-driven systems and cultivate a learning environment that values creativity and continuous improvement.
Prepare and coordinate Board papers, committee reports and relevant materials for ZACCI’s governance structure.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in Economics, Business Administration, Public Policy, Development Studies or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of executive or senior leadership experience, preferably in business membership organizations, the private sector or development policy.
Proven success in managing complex stakeholder relationships at national, regional, or global level.
Strong knowledge of Zambia’s macroeconomic environment, business policy, investment climate and regional trade integration.

KEY ATTRIBUTES:

A visionary leader with the ability to anticipate and shape economic trends.
Exceptional communicator and influencer, with gravitas and diplomacy.
Strategic thinker with a strong sense of purpose, agility, and innovation.
Deep commitment to private sector development, sustainable growth and inclusive economic transformation.

APPLICATION GUIDELINES:

Interested candidates should submit the following:

A cover letter clearly demonstrating suitability for the role.
A detailed CV with at least three (3) traceable referees.
Certified copies of academic and professional qualifications.

Email applications to: zaccipresident@zedfield.com

The Chairperson Finance and Admin Committee
Zambia Chamber of Commerce & Industry
P O Box 30844, Showgrounds, Lusaka

Deadline for submission: 22nd August 2025.

Subject line: Application – Chief Executive Officer (ZACCI)

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

ZACCI is an equal opportunity employer. Female candidates and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.