The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is seeking a highly driven and results-oriented professional to serve as Executive Assistant (EA) to the Executive Secretary (ES).
The Executive Assistant (EA) serves as the principal operational and coordination anchor of the Executive Secretary, ensuring the seamless execution of the ES’s priorities through exceptional coordination, stakeholder engagement, executive office management, and delivery oversight, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, discretion, and efficiency.
Positioned at the centre of the Executive Office, the EA ensures that decisions, commitments, and engagements of the Executive Secretary are efficiently managed and executed.
Duties and responsibilities include the following:
Executive Office Operations & Delivery
- Coordinate the day-to-day functioning of the Executive Secretary’s Office, ensuring alignment between priorities, schedules, and deliverables.
- Maintain and optimize the Executive Secretary’s strategic calendar, ensuring effective prioritization based on institutional objectives.
- Track key decisions, commitments, and deadlines, ensuring timely follow-up across departments and with external stakeholders.
- Establish and manage efficient workflow systems to enhance responsiveness and productivity.
Strategic Scheduling & Engagement Management
- Coordinate high-level engagements involving the Executive Secretary with governments, development partners, Board members, and senior stakeholders.
- Prioritize meetings based on strategic importance and relationship management considerations.
- Ensure timely preparation of briefing materials, talking points, and background documentation in collaboration with relevant units.
- Align engagements with institutional priorities and strategic outcomes.
Executive Meetings & Governance Support
- Plan and coordinate Management meetings, ensuring full logistical and administrative readiness.
- Prepare structured agendas and documentation flows in collaboration with relevant units.
- Capture accurate, concise minutes and decisions, and track implementation of agreed actions.
- Ensure governance processes are efficient, well-documented, and compliant with institutional standards.
- Support the Executive Board and Board of Governors, if required
Stakeholder Liaison & Representation Support
- Serve as the primary coordination point between the Executive Secretary and internal and external stakeholders.
- Manage high-level correspondence, ensuring accuracy, quality, and timeliness.
- Draft reports, briefs, and communications for the Executive Secretary’s review and signature.
- Maintain and regularly update a structured stakeholder database.
Travel Planning & Mission Coordination
- Coordinate international and regional missions of the Executive Secretary.
- Develop mission programmes in collaboration with relevant units.
- Ensure alignment of travel with institutional objectives, efficiency, and compliance standards.
- Oversee mission documentation, including reporting and administrative follow-up.
Information & Workflow Management
- Manage and prioritize incoming communications, ensuring timely escalation of critical matters.
- Maintain structured filing systems (electronic and physical) to ensure easy retrieval and confidentiality.
- Ensure smooth information flow within the Executive Secretary’s Office and across the organization.
Office Coordination
- Ensure strict adherence to protocol standards in all high-level engagements and visits.
- Anticipate and mitigate operational risks related to scheduling, logistics, and stakeholder interactions.
- Ensure effective coordination with internal administrative and support units.
Desired Competencies and Experience
Core Capabilities
- Execution Excellence: Ability to translate priorities into coordinated action and timely results
- Stakeholder Management: Strong capacity to manage relationships with high-level officials and partners
- Judgement & Discretion: Exceptional professionalism in handling sensitive information
- Organizational Agility: Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced executive environment
- Attention to Detail: Precision in documentation, scheduling, and follow-up
Technical & Professional Skills
- Strong organizational, coordination, and time management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proven ability to draft high-level correspondence and reports.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital productivity tools.
Behavioral Attributes
- Highly proactive and anticipatory
- Strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Diplomatic and tactful in all interactions
- Able to operate with minimal supervision and high trust
Qualifications & Experience
- Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Political Science, International Relations, Development Studies, or a related field. with special training in secretarial studies
- Minimum of 8–10 years of relevant experience in executive office management, coordination, or similar roles in international organizations or development institutions.
- Demonstrated experience supporting senior leadership in complex institutional environments.
- Experience working with Boards and high-level stakeholders is an added advantage.
- Fluency in English and French is mandatory.
Compensation
The African Capacity Building Foundation offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience. The Foundation provides a generous package of benefits, including international medical cover, retirement benefit, among others.
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the African Union’s specialized agency for capacity development. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
To apply for this position please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Executive Assistant by 31 October 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The African Capacity Building Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Department: Business Services and Operations
Duty Station: Harare, Zimbabwe.
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is offering an internship opportunity for an emerging professional seeking to gain practical experience in procurement and build their skills within procurement.
Under the supervision of the Procurement Specialist, the intern will gain hands-on experience in procurement processes, contract and supplier management, and records management, while supporting the efficient, transparent and compliant acquisition of goods, works and services.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Gain knowledge and experience in the preparation of purchase orders and contract documents.
- Assist in monitoring contract performance and delivery schedules.
- Learn supplier management by following up with suppliers regarding outstanding deliveries and documentation.
- Gain knowledge and competencies in maintenance of procurement files and records in both electronic and physical forms.
- Learn procurement documentation and archiving.
- Assist in updating procurement tracking tools and databases.
- Gain knowledge and experience in supplier registration and vendor database maintenance.
- Assist in supplier communication and correspondence.
- Learn preparation of records of supplier performance.
- Obtain experience in preparing periodic procurement reports and statistics.
- Gain knowledge and experience in supporting audit preparations by organizing procurement records and supporting documentation.
- Provide administrative support to the Procurement Unit as required.
- Perform any other procurement-related duties assigned by the supervisor.
Qualifications and Experience
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce, Logistics, Economics, Finance, or a related field.
- Previous internship, volunteer work, or academic exposure in procurement or supply chain management will be an added advantage.
Skills and Competencies
- Good understanding of procurement and supply chain principles.
- Strong analytical and organizational skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, ERP systems, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
- Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the leading capacity development institution in Africa and has become the African Union’s specialized Agency since 2017. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use. Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please submit, in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this internship position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Procurement Intern by 30 September 2026.
Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
Languages Required: English (French is an added advantage)
Call for Expressions of Interest: Member of the Executive Board of the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF).
Background
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is Africa’s leading capacity development institution and a specialized agency of the African Union. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while strengthening institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human as well as institutional capacity, while generating and disseminating knowledge to advance sustainable development in Africa in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on four key impact areas: Climate Change and Energy for Productive Use; Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty; Trade as an Engine for Economic Development; and Economic and Social Governance.
The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi, and a liaison office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
ACBF has a three-tier governance structure comprising a Board of Governors, an Executive Board and a Secretariat.
- The Board of Governors is the principal policy-making body of the Foundation. Each government and institution that contributes to the African Capacity Building Foundation is eligible to appoint one representative to serve as a governor on the Board of Governors and may appoint an alternate.
- The Executive Board, appointed by the Board of Governors, is charged with the oversight responsibility of the governance of the Foundation and to approve operational policies, procedures and rules under which the Foundation is managed.
- The Executive Secretary, appointed by the Executive Board is an ex-Officio member of the Executive Board. The Executive Secretary heads the Secretariat and administers the day-to-day management of the Foundation
Job Specification
The Board member will be expected to contribute towards strategic governance, fiduciary oversight and mission-based leadership. The ideal candidate will bring to the board insightful thinking on innovative approaches to finance structuring to support capacity development interventions on the continent. This includes bringing on board and/or promoting visibility of the Foundation to global stakeholders interested in sustainable development on the African continent.
The highlights of this role are:
- Strategic Leadership & Convening Power
- Fiduciary & Financial Oversight
- Governance & Executive Oversight
- Supporting Resource Mobilization
- Board Engagement & Commitment
Only candidates who are willing to commit the time necessary to effectively discharge their responsibilities should apply.
Meetings: The board will meet at least three times a year. The time commitment per month expected from board members will average 12 hours.
Term: Board members serve a 3-year term and may serve a maximum of two terms.
Pro Bono: Board members do not receive remuneration for their service. However, they will be reimbursed for approved expenditure incurred in the discharge of their duties.
Applicants are invited to express their interest by submitting a recent and concise Curriculum Vitae no later than 21 September 2026 and addressed to:
The Board Secretary
The African Capacity Building Foundation
HARARE, Zimbabwe
E-mail: board@theacbf.org
QUALIFIED FEMALE CANDIDATES ARE HIGHLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION.
The African Capacity Building Foundation is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Trade Programs to lead and grow one of its strategic program areas.
This senior leadership role is central to advancing ACBF’s work in trade capacity development, regional integration, AfCFTA implementation, trade facilitation, SME competitiveness, and institutional strengthening for trade-led growth across Africa.
The incumbent will provide strategic and technical leadership for the design, implementation, monitoring and scaling of high-impact trade capacity and institutional strengthening programs. S/he will manage the Trade Programs team, strengthen partnerships with governments, regional and continental institutions, development partners and private-sector actors, and contribute to resource mobilisation to expand ACBF’s trade portfolio.
The role is a fixed-term three-year contract, renewable subject to performance and organisational needs. The position will report to the Director of Programs and Impact and will be based in Accra, Ghana.
This position requires a seasoned professional with strong technical expertise in trade capacity, policy and regional integration, proven program design and leadership experience, and the ability to engage effectively with governments, development partners, private-sector institutions, business associations, research organisations and regional economic communities.
Duties and responsibilities include the following
Strategic Leadership and Programme Delivery
- Provide strategic direction for ACBF’s Trade Programs, ensuring alignment with ACBF’s Strategic Plan and institutional priorities.
- Lead the design, development and implementation of high-impact continental, regional and country-level trade capacity-development initiatives.
- Advance ACBF’s contribution to the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area and related regional integration agendas.
- Oversee the implementation, monitoring, quality assurance and reporting of all programs and projects under the Trade Unit.
- Identify emerging trade priorities, capacity gaps and opportunities for ACBF’s strategic engagement across the continent.
- Ensure that trade programs contribute to inclusive growth, private-sector development, SME competitiveness, women and youth economic empowerment, and sustainable enterprise development.
- Promote integrated programming across ACBF’s thematic areas, including trade, economic governance, climate, energy, knowledge management and institutional strengthening.
Partnerships and Business Development
- Build and sustain strategic relationships with governments, the African Union, AfCFTA Secretariat, regional economic communities, development partners, private-sector actors, trade-support institutions, business associations and research organisations.
- Collaborate with ACBF’s Business Development team to mobilize financial and technical resources for program growth and sustainability.
- Lead the preparation of high-quality concept notes, funding proposals and partnership frameworks.
- Position ACBF as a trusted capacity-development partner for trade implementation and institutional strengthening across Africa.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for strategic partnerships, co-financing and joint programming in support of trade-led growth.
- Represent ACBF at high-level forums, conferences, technical dialogues and policy platforms related to trade, regional integration and private-sector development.
Knowledge Management and Policy Influence
- Guide knowledge generation, documentation of lessons learned, and dissemination of good practices in trade capacity development.
- Promote evidence-based programming, policy learning and knowledge exchange across ACBF’s networks and partner institutions.
- Contribute to the development of analytical products, policy briefs, case studies, training materials and knowledge products on trade-related themes.
- Stay abreast of emerging trends, policy developments and opportunities in intra-African trade, global trade dynamics, trade facilitation, industrialisation, digital trade and regional value chains.
- Support the integration of trade-related knowledge products into ACBF’s broader learning platforms, including Ubora Academy and the Knowledge Hub.
Financial and Operational Management
- Lead annual work planning, budgeting, procurement inputs and activity scheduling for the Trade Programs.
- Ensure timely and effective delivery of programme activities in line with approved work plans, budgets, ACBF’s internal policies, procedures and donor agreements.
- Monitor budget utilisation, expenditure performance and implementation risks across trade projects.
- Produce timely and high-quality monthly, quarterly, annual and donor-specific progress reports.
- Identify implementation challenges and propose practical solutions to improve delivery, performance and results.
People Management
- Lead, mentor and supervise staff and consultants assigned to the Trade Programs.
- Foster a collaborative, results-oriented and high-performance team culture.
- Support staff performance management, professional development, coaching and team engagement.
- Promote cross-unit collaboration and effective coordination with other teams within the Programs & Impact Department and across ACBF.
- Maintain a positive and empowering work environment anchored in ACBF’s values.
Qualifications and Experience
- Master’s degree or higher in International Trade, Trade Policy, Economics, Development Economics, International Development, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive professional experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership or management role.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Africa’s trade and regional integration agenda, including the AfCFTA, regional economic communities and trade-support institutions, private-sector development, economic governance, institutional capacity development, or related fields.
- Proven track record in designing, managing and delivering multi-country or regional programs.
- Experience working with governments, development partners, private-sector actors, business associations, regional institutions and/or continental organisations.
- Strong understanding of Africa’s political, socio-economic, institutional and trade-development landscape.
- Demonstrated ability to develop high-quality funding proposals, concept notes, technical reports and strategic partnership documents.
- Strong analytical, policy and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, with full proficiency in English. Strong working knowledge of French would be an added advantage.
- Experience of supporting governments and institutions in strengthening capacities relating to digital trade policy, e-commerce, digital market integration, digital services, and innovation-driven economic growth would be an added advantage.
- Ability and willingness to travel frequently across Africa.
Personal Competencies
- Strategic, visionary and committed to Africa’s development and economic transformation.
- Strong leadership, interpersonal and team-management skills.
- Ability to build partnerships and navigate complex stakeholder environments.
- Results-oriented, solutions-driven and able to deliver under pressure.
- Strong political economy awareness. sound judgement and high ethical standards.
- Entrepreneurial mindset and ability to identify opportunities for programme growth and resource mobilisation.
- Strong commitment to institutional learning, innovation and continuous improvement.
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment.
Compensation
The African Capacity Building Foundation offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience. The Foundation provides a generous package of benefits, including international medical cover, retirement benefit, mobility allowance, among others.
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the African Union’s specialized agency for capacity development. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. On the Trade thematic areas, strong focus is on strengthening Africa’s institutional, policy and implementation capacities to maximise the benefits of regional and continental trade integration.
The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this career position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Head of Trade Programs on or before 31 August 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The African Capacity Building Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Department: Communications & Influencing
Duty Station: Harare, Zimbabwe
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is seeking a dynamic and motivated Communications assistant to support its Communications & Influencing Unit. This role is designed for a proactive individual with a strong interest in strategic communications, storytelling, and digital engagement, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to advancing Africa’s development narrative.
Reporting to the Head of Communications and Influencing, the assistant will contribute to the delivery of ACBF’s communication strategies: supporting institutional visibility, strengthening messaging coherence, and enhancing stakeholder engagement.
The role offers hands-on experience in a fast-paced, policy-oriented environment, with exposure to strategic communications initiatives, content development, and strategic engagement.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Support the development and dissemination of communication and visibility materials, including brochures, fact sheets, publications, event materials, media materials, and other institutional and program communication products.
- Contribute to the development and adaptation of engaging content for ACBF’s digital platforms, including the website and social media channels, ensuring content is timely, audience-focused, and aligned with institutional priorities and ongoing campaigns.
- Assist in media outreach and engagement activities, including drafting pitches and coordinating interviews.
- Conduct research and prepare reports on communication trends and impact.
- Provide administrative and coordination support to the Communications team as needed.
- Support the communications unit in organizing events, workshops, and conferences as needed.
Selection Criteria
Selection will be on a competitive basis and the following minimum qualifications, experience, and competencies are required:
Education: University degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field.
Work experience: At least one year of experience in communications or a related field.
Language: Excellent written and spoken English. Knowledge of French or other African languages is an added advantage.
Core Competencies:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Content development, writing, and editing
- Digital media and social media management
- Research and analytical skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Creativity and innovation
Personal Competencies
- Proactive and self-driven with a strong sense of initiative
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment
- Professionalism, reliability, and integrity
- Willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic work environment
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the leading capacity development institution in Africa and has become the African Union’s specialized Agency since 2017. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this internship position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Communications Assistant by 21 August 2026.
NOTE:
- Due to the urgency in filling this opportunity, the applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is seeking a dynamic and motivated Legal Intern to support its Legal Department. This role is designed for a proactive individual with a strong interest in legal research and a desire to contribute meaningfully to advancing Africa’s development narrative.
Reporting to the Legal Counsel, the Intern will get exposed to the legal risk register maintenance as well as initiating and implementing actions that mitigate legal risks in the business processes. This work will entail exposure to legal research and administrative support in the following areas:
Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct research and drafting of legal documents as required and collating background information on legal issues for the attention of Legal Counsel.
- Support in drafting, proof reading and editing of legal documents.
- Maintain and update a calendar of enforcement triggers and monitor compliance issues in consultation with Legal Counsel.
- Maintain and update the registry of legal documents including all legal instruments pertaining to the preparation, negotiation, signing and enforcement of financing agreements.
- Provide support in the development and maintenance of the legal database.
- Assist in logging and processing requests addressed to the department and any other administrative tasks as assigned by Legal Counsel.
Selection Criteria
Selection will be on a competitive basis and the following minimum qualifications, experience and competencies are required:
Education:
University degree in Law from a recognized university. Candidates registered as legal practitioners admitted to the bar in a jurisdiction will have an added advantage.
Work experience:
At least two years’ experience and candidates must have an interest in development work or aspiring to develop a career as an in-house lawyer.
Language: Very good knowledge of English (written and spoken). Knowledge of French would be an added advantage.
Core Competencies
- Planning and organizing
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Communication
- Respect for organizational, intercultural and ethical values
- Learning and Innovation
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the leading capacity development institution in Africa and has become the African Union’s specialized Agency since 2017. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
To apply for this internship opportunity please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this internship position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Legal Intern by 14 August 2026.
Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Background/Job Purpose
The Director, Business Services and Operations is a strategic partner to the Executive Secretary and a member of the senior management team, responsible for leadership and oversight of the Foundation’s core operational and fiduciary functions. The role directly supervises five key service units: Finance, Procurement, Information Technology (IT), People and Culture, and Corporate Services.
The Director ensures these functions operate as a cohesive, client-oriented platform that enables effective delivery of ACBF’s programs and impact agenda. The role serves as a central coordination point across the organization, working closely with Programs & Impact, Legal, and other units, as well as external stakeholders.
The incumbent ensures that operational systems, financial stewardship, and people management practices support efficient grant management, high-quality reporting, and full compliance with donor, legal, and regulatory requirements. The role also leads engagement with internal and external auditors, ensuring robust internal controls, risk management, and compliance frameworks across the organization. This position will be based in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Leadership and Integrated Service Delivery
- Provide strategic direction and leadership to five core units: Finance, Procurement, IT, People & Culture, and Corporate Services, ensuring alignment with ACBF’s strategy and priorities.
- Maintain an integrated business services model that promotes collaboration, efficiency, and service quality.
- Ensure seamless operational support to program teams across the project lifecycle, including planning, implementation, and reporting.
2. Cross-Functional Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement
- Serve as a central coordination point between Business Services and:
- Programs & Impact teams for grant management, budgeting, and donor reporting;
- Legal function for contractual matters relating to procurement of good and services and staff employment;
- Senior management and the Executive Board on financial, operational, and risk matters.
- Ensure that financial, procurement, contractual, business services and HR processes are compliant, efficient and aligned with legal and policy requirements.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with donors, partners, service providers, and financial institutions, ensuring operational credibility and responsiveness.
3. Financial Stewardship, Risk, and Compliance
- Provide overall leadership for financial management, fiduciary oversight, and risk management, ensuring robust internal controls and regulatory compliance.
- Oversee coordination with internal and external auditors, ensuring timely audits, effective implementation of audit recommendations, and continuous strengthening of control systems.
- Ensure that risk and compliance frameworks are embedded across all supervised units, not only Finance, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.
- Lead organizational compliance with donor requirements, statutory obligations, and internal policies across procurement, HR, IT, and administration.
4. Operational Excellence and Service Efficiency
- Ensure efficient delivery of core services, including :
- Procurement and contract management;
- IT systems reliability and security;
- Human Resources management and staff lifecycle support;
- Administrative and logistical support.
- Promote a service-oriented culture across all business service units, ensuring responsiveness to internal and external stakeholders.
- Strengthen systems, processes, and digital solutions to enhance operational performance and data-driven decision-making.
5. Team Leadership and Organizational Capability
- Lead and manage a multi-disciplinary team across five functional areas, fostering collaboration, accountability, and high performance.
- Ensure clear role definition and coordination across units to avoid silos and duplication.
- Build capacity within teams and across partner organizations, particularly in financial, procurement, and operational management systems.
- Drive performance management, continuous learning, and professional development across all supervised functions.
Qualification and Experience
- Advanced degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or related field (professional accounting qualification preferred).
- Minimum of 12–15 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
- Strong experience in financial management, donor-funded programs, and fiduciary oversight.
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams (IT, People and Culture, Procurement and corporate services) and manage complex operations.
- Experience working with international organizations or development institutions is an advantage.
- Bilingual (English*/French) is an advantage.
Core Competencies:
- Strategic thinking and leadership
- Financial and business acumen
- Risk management and governance expertise
- Stakeholder engagement and partnership building
- Operational excellence and results delivery
- Strong communication and influencing skills
Personal Characteristics
- An intellectually curious but humble leader with a high degree of compassion, able to engage, enable and inspire.
- A hands-on approach to all activities with real passion and high levels of energy. Agile and comfortable adapting to different environments.
- Creative and resourceful in overcoming barriers and unexpected roadblocks. Courageous in spirit, driving change through innovation.
- An authentic leader who intuitively engenders an inclusive environment, enabling program to reach its ambitious goals.
- Possesses high personal standards of ethics and integrity towards employees, stakeholders, and beneficiaries.
- Servant leadership mentality, deeply committed to serving and listening to others. Natural ability to build strong relationships and enable collaboration through empathy and authenticity.
Duration and Compensation
- The contract is for a period of three years, to be extended based on performance and availability of funds.
- The African Capacity Building Foundation offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience.
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the African Union’s specialized agency for capacity development. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
To apply for this position please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Director Business Services and Operations on or before 7 August 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The African Capacity Building Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Position: Finance Intern
Department: Business Services and Operations – Finance Unit
Duty Station: Harare, Zimbabwe
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is seeking a dynamic and motivated Finance Intern to support its Finance and Grants Unit. This role is designed for a proactive individual with a strong interest in finance and a desire to contribute meaningfully to advancing Africa’s development narrative.
The Finance Intern will work under the overall supervision of the Head of Finance and direct supervision of the Accounting Officer and work closely with Finance staff to offer a full range of financial support services. The Finance Intern will also be expected to collaborate closely with other departments and units within the Foundation, as required.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist in ensuring an orderly and systematic filing system of transaction records
- Assist in monitoring vendor balances and processing of vendor payments and following up on vendor invoices.
- Assist with VAT returns processing and VAT Accounts reconciliation for Harare and Accra Office.
- Assist with the quarterly reporting of Special Accounts managed by the foundation and compiling justifications to support the reports and attending to queries that may arise.
- Assist in recording receipts and ensuring that receipts are sequentially posted to the appropriate accounts.
- Assist with monthly bank reconciliation for the Foundation’s accounts and other key accounts by the 15th of the following month to ensure that errors are detected and corrected on time.
- Assist in the preparation of monthly project cashflows.
- Assist in reviewing and processing of Statements of Expenditure (SOEs) and preparing monthly deduction schedule.
- Assist in fixed assets management (physical asset verification, asset register updates).
- Any other duties may be assigned by the supervisor.
- Assist in the Grants and Financial management filing requirements.
- Assist in the checking and reviewing of sub award disbursement requests.
- Assist in the preparation of payment memos and other payment requests documentation.
- Assist in the preparation of documentation trail for Audit purposes.
- Assist in the preparation of source financial information for small projects.
- Assist in the vendors, authorized allocations and other payables reconciliations.
Selection Criteria
Selection will be on a competitive basis and the following minimum qualifications, experience, and competencies are required:
The required qualifications and experience:
- University degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
- 1 year of demonstrated experience in financial management and accounting, preferably in international organizations.
- Good knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping procedures
- Ability to work independently and in a team
- Incredible attention to detail
- Ability to work in a diverse and multi-cultural environment
Core Competencies:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Research and analytical skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Creativity and innovation
Personal Competencies
- Proactive and self-driven with a strong sense of initiative
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment
- Professionalism, reliability, and integrity
- Willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic work environment
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the leading capacity development institution in Africa and has become the African Union’s specialized Agency since 2017. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
To apply for this position please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this internship position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Finance Intern by 31 May 2026.
E-mail: recruitment@theacbf.org
Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
ACBF has internship opportunities in Harare-Zimbabwe, Accra-Ghana and Nairobi-Kenya for recent graduates to join the Foundation.
The internship offers opportunities to:
- Work with a major international institution driving Africa’s capacity development.
- Participate and gain a deeper understanding of ACBF’s work in Africa.
- Work collaboratively with experienced professionals in a multicultural environment.
- Develop the individual’s career path with practical work experience as they contribute to ACBF’s work.
Selection Criteria (required skills and knowledge)
Selection will be on a competitive basis, and the following minimum qualifications and competencies are required.
Qualifications and Skills
Interested candidates must have a Bachelors’ degree or an advanced degree in a wide range of fields, such as Business Administration, Communication, Finance, Economics, Library and Information Science, Human Resources, Procurement, International Development, Marketing, Public Administration, Records Management, or any related Social-Sciences field.
- Ability to work independently under minimum supervision and be accountable.
- Fluency in at least one of the Foundation’s working languages (English or French).
- Excellent writing, research, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
- Excellent interactive and interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
- Excellent computer skills (MS applications)Demonstrated mastery of subject matter.
- Efficient in meeting commitments, deadlines and achieving results
- Good communication skills.
The Foundation will provide the interns with a monthly stipend. Interns shall be responsible for their own medical insurance coverage, transport (air travel where applicable), and living accommodation expenses.
Selection Criteria
Selection will be on a competitive basis and the following minimum qualifications, experience and competencies are required:
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the leading capacity development institution in Africa and has become the African Union’s specialized Agency since 2017. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
To apply for this internship opportunity please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this internship position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Internship by 15 May 2026.
Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Position: Communications Intern
Department: Communications & Influencing
Duty Station: Harare, Zimbabwe
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is seeking a dynamic and motivated Communications Intern to support its Communications & Influencing Unit. This role is designed for a proactive individual with a strong interest in strategic communications, storytelling, and digital engagement, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to advancing Africa’s development narrative.
Reporting to the Head of Communications and Influencing, the Intern will contribute to the delivery of ACBF’s communication strategies: supporting institutional visibility, strengthening messaging coherence, and enhancing stakeholder engagement.
The role offers hands-on experience in a fast-paced, policy-oriented environment, with exposure to strategic communications initiatives, content development, and strategic engagement.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Support the development and dissemination of communication materials, including press releases, newsletters, and social media content.
- Assist in media outreach and engagement activities, including drafting pitches and coordinating interviews.
- Conduct research and prepare reports on communication trends and impact.
- Provide administrative and coordination support to the Communications team as needed.
- Support the communications unit in organizing events, workshops, and conferences as needed.
- Contribute to content development for digital platforms, including the website and social media channels.
Education: University degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field.
Work experience: At least one year of experience in communications or a related field.
Language: Excellent written and spoken English. Knowledge of French or other African languages is an added advantage.
Core Competencies
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Content development, writing, and editing
- Digital media and social media management
- Research and analytical skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Creativity and innovation
Personal Competencies
- Proactive and self-driven with a strong sense of initiative
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment
- Professionalism, reliability, and integrity
- Willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic work environment
About the African Capacity Building Foundation
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is the leading capacity development institution in Africa and has become the African Union’s specialized Agency since 2017. Since 1991, ACBF has empowered over 100,000 professionals across the public and private sectors, civil society, and academia, while building institutions in more than 40 member states. Through strategic partnerships and impactful programs, the Foundation builds human and institutional capacity and generates and disseminates knowledge to advance Africa’s sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
ACBF’s current strategic plan focuses on key impact areas such as Climate Change and Energy for productive use, Agribusiness and Food Sovereignty, Trade as an engine for economic development, and Economic and Social Governance. The Foundation is headquartered in Harare, with regional offices in Accra and Nairobi and a Liaison Office at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
To apply for this position please submit in confidence a resume and a cover letter that details why you are a good fit for this internship position to recruitment@theacbf.org with the subject Communications Intern by 30 April 2026.
Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.