Programme Coordinator - THRIVE Zimbabwe

About COLEAD & THRIVE Zimbabwe Programme

COLEAD is a non-profit interprofessional association founded in 1973, dedicated to enhancing the agricultural and food sector's contribution toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It manages agricultural development projects primarily financed by the European Union in low and low-middle income countries.

The THRIVE Zimbabwe programme focuses on transforming horticulture to be more resilient, inclusive, and value-driven to boost export potential.

Role Overview

Based in Harare, the Programme Coordinator will oversee the daily coordination and operational management of the THRIVE Zimbabwe project. This role requires close collaboration with COLEAD teams in multiple countries and national partners to ensure effective planning, implementation, monitoring, and delivery of project activities. The coordinator will also foster partnerships within Zimbabwe's horticulture sector to enhance competitiveness and export market access.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the daily coordination and operational follow-up ensuring activities are well-planned, executed, and monitored.
• Coordinate preparation, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of annual work plans, milestones, performance indicators, risks, and deliverables.
• Oversee programme implementation strategically by identifying potential risks and obstacles while suggesting practical solutions.
• Collaborate with COLEAD's technical experts, consultants, and partners to guarantee timely, quality programme outcomes.
• Supervise development projects for horticulture sector beneficiaries and monitor progress.
• Maintain and nurture strong relationships with government bodies, private sector groups, producer organisations, development partners, and other stakeholders.
• Represent COLEAD and the programme in technical, institutional, policy forums, workshops, and sector gatherings.
• Coordinate with the EU Delegation, ministries, sector associations, and other development initiatives to enhance cooperation and impact.
• Support activities related to programme monitoring, reporting, fiscal verification, and application of recommendations.
• Contribute towards communication, visibility, and knowledge-sharing activities aligned with EU communication protocols.

Candidate Profile

• University degree in agronomy, agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, economics, management, project management, or related disciplines.
• A minimum of 10 years' relevant professional experience coordinating complex projects or programmes within Zimbabwe's horticultural or agri-food sectors.
• In-depth understanding of horticultural value chains, export markets, private sector growth, and sanitary and phytosanitary regulations.
• Proven expertise in programme planning, results-based management frameworks, monitoring, reporting, and stakeholder coordination.
• Well-established professional networks within Zimbabwe's horticulture industry and experience collaborating with public institutions, private entities, and development partners.
• Excellent leadership, analytical thought, organisational capability, and communication skills, capable of managing multiple priorities and forging successful partnerships.
• Experience operating within international development or multicultural environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital collaboration platforms.
• Fluency in English (spoken and written), with additional language skills in Shona, Ndebele, French, Portuguese, or Spanish considered advantageous.
• Familiarity with leveraging digital tools and artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and work quality is a plus.

Working Conditions & Additional Information

• Full-time position based out of Harare, Zimbabwe.
• Frequent travel within Zimbabwe and occasional trips to Eastern Africa, Belgium, and key export markets may be necessary.
• Contract term is one year starting September 2026, with possibility for renewal.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV, cover letter, and references by Friday, 7 August 2026.

Joining COLEAD provides the chance to work in a diverse, committed team dedicated to developing sustainable, resilient, and export-focused agri-food systems alongside international specialists and partners.