Executive Director – Student Experience and Success

Job Title and Organisation

The Women’s University in Africa is inviting applications from highly qualified, experienced, and dynamic individuals for the position of Executive Director – Student Experience and Success.

Location

Harare

Job Description and Responsibilities

This is a senior leadership role within the Student Affairs Department, responsible for shaping and driving a university-wide strategy that enhances student engagement, wellbeing, and academic success. The successful candidate will:

• Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive Student Experience and Success Strategy aligned with institutional goals.
• Oversee and support the Academic Registry Section in managing the full student lifecycle, including admissions, onboarding, engagement, progression, retention, graduation, and alumni relations.
• Design and implement systems to improve student retention, progression, and completion rates.
• Manage core student support services such as counselling, disability support, scholarships, accommodation, discipline, sports, and spiritual support.
• Develop and supervise student mentorship programmes (peer, academic, alumni, and industry-based).
• Drive student engagement initiatives including sports, recreation, clubs, societies, and student leadership development.
• Promote a strong sense of student identity, belonging, and institutional culture.
• Collaborate with Faculties and Deans to integrate academic advising, tutoring, and career support into student success initiatives.
• Establish and manage student feedback systems to inform decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Support graduate outcomes, employability, and career development programmes.
• Ensure compliance with quality assurance standards, regulatory requirements, and risk management frameworks.
• Oversee departmental budgets, staffing, and resource allocation.

Requirements/Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Education, Higher Education Management, Student Affairs, Psychology, Counselling, Social Sciences, Management, or a related field.
• A PhD in a relevant discipline will be an added advantage.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in higher education, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role within student affairs, student success, or institutional strategy.

Key Competencies and Attributes

• Strong student-centered leadership approach.
• Proven change management and organisational transformation skills.
• Excellent data-driven decision-making ability.
• Experience in leading cross-functional teams.
• Deep understanding of student engagement, mentoring frameworks, and wellbeing initiatives.
• Strong commitment to inclusive, holistic student development.

Terms of Appointment

The position is offered on a 4-year fixed-term, performance-based contract. Renewal is subject to satisfactory performance.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit a single PDF document containing:

• A cover letter outlining suitability for the role.
• A detailed CV including contact details of at least three referees.
• Certified copies of academic and professional qualifications.

Applications should be addressed to:

Deputy Registrar – Human Resources and Administration
Women’s University in Africa
549 Arcturus Road
Manresa, Harare
Email: info@wua.ac.zw
CC: hr@wua.ac.zw