The University Librarian is a senior academic and an executive officer who reports directly to the Deputy Vice Chancellor. The successful candidate
will provide visionary leadership for the university library, driving innovation in service delivery, fostering a culture of excellence, and advancing
the academic and research mission of the University.
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS
- A PhD in Library and Information Science or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university
- A Bachelor’s and postgraduate degree in Library and Information Science {a second advanced degree is an added advantage)
- At least 8 years of relevant professional experience in a university library with significant experience at senior management level.
- Proven record of research and publication in reputable scholarly journals
- Demonstrated success in resource mobilisation, project management, and consortium collaboration
- Be a member of professional association such as the Zimbabwe Library Association {ZIMLA), Zimbabwe University Libraries Consortium {ZULC)
and any other library association
EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE
- Extensive experience in executive-level support within a higher education environment
- Strong background in digital outreach, data analytics, library management systems, and stakeholder engagement
- Proficiency in drafting high-level reports, managing board-level communications, and using the full Microsoft Office suite
- Demonstrable experience in managing an executive office, including sensitive and confidential matters
- Clear vision for the use of technology to transform library services and enhance user experience
SKILLS AND PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and mentoring abilities
- High levels of professionalism, integrity, and discretion
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with attention to detail
- Commitment to the values of academic excellence, diversity, Ubuntu, and ethical conduct
- Ability to work autonomously while fostering teamwork and a collaborative spirit
- Forward-thinking, innovative, and committed to continuous professional development
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide strategic leadership for all library operations, including physical and digital resources, facilities, and services
- Develop and manage the library budget, overseeing procurement, resource allocation, and financial accountability
- Lead, mentor, and evaluate library staff, promoting a culture of teamwork, professional growth, and high performance
- Spearhead collection development and the integration of emerging technologies to enhance research, teaching, and learning
- Represent the library on key university committees, including Senate, Finance, and Cabinet, advising senior management on library-related matters
- Foster and maintain strategic partnerships with local, regional, and international libraries, consortia, and academic institutions
- Ensure compliance with library policies and promote ethical conduct, inclusivity, and respect for cultural diversity
- Design and coordinate outreach programmes, exhibitions, and information dissemination initiatives to engage the university community
This position is offered on a 4-year performance-based contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance.
TO APPLY
Interested candidates must submit an application letter, certified copies of certificates, transcripts, national identification {ID, or Passport & birth cer
tificate), and a detailed curriculum vitae {CV) including full personal particulars and the names and addresses of three referees.
The application pack should be sent as a single PDF file clearly marked “Librarian” in the subject line to the email careers@africau.edu by no later
than 1400 hours on Friday, 06 February 2026. Applicants should clearly indicate the position being applied for in the application letter, which
should be addressed to the Assistant Registrar, Personnel and Administration. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
