Head – Tobacco Operations

Position Overview

The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) is the regulatory and developmental authority mandated to promote, sustain, and transform Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry.

TIMB is spearheading the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan (TVCTP), which aims to enhance the sustainability, value addition, and global competitiveness of Zimbabwean tobacco.

TIMB has retained TM Industrial Psychological Services to assist in the recruitment and selection of a suitably qualified, experienced, and results-oriented Head – Tobacco Operations.

Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the Head – Tobacco Operations will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of strategies relating to tobacco production and orderly marketing of tobacco in line with the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Act, relevant statutory instruments and statutes, as well as the TIMB’s transformation agenda.

Summary of Duties

• Lead and oversee all operational activities relating to the production and orderly marketing of tobacco.
• Ensure compliance with the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Act by farmers, merchants, buyers, auction floors, and other industry stakeholders.
• Plan and coordinate tobacco sales processes to ensure orderly marketing, fair pricing, and efficient movement of tobacco through selling points.
• Plan and coordinate crop assessments, pest monitoring, and control programmes to support accurate industry statistics and informed decision-making.
• Plan and coordinate modernised grower registration processes and ensure stakeholder compliance with production legislative obligations.
• Plan and coordinate comprehensive stakeholder engagement and public relations systems.
• Oversee tobacco classification and grading processes, ensuring consistency, integrity, and adherence to national standards.
• Oversee inspections of auction floors, grading facilities, re-handlers, & related operations to ensure compliance with prescribed standards.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that improve efficiency, reduce congestion, and enhance stakeholder experience during the marketing season.
• Manage departmental resources, budgets, transport, and manpower to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Plan and coordinate effective human resources functions within the department.
• Lead training and capacity-building initiatives for staff, growers, buyers, graders, and other stakeholders.
• Develop and implement an effective risk identification and control/mitigation system.
• Provide strategic recommendations for policy and legislative improvements that support sustainable tobacco production and marketing.

Person Specifications

• A relevant University Degree in Agriculture, Crop Science, Botany, or a related field.
• A relevant business or management qualification will be an added advantage.
• 5–7 years’ relevant experience in tobacco operations, agricultural regulation, agribusiness, or a related environment, of which 3 years should be in a senior managerial role.
• A clean Class 4 Driver's Licence is a must.
• Strong understanding of tobacco production systems, classification standards, inspections, compliance, and orderly marketing.
• Demonstrated experience in leading operational teams across multiple locations.
• Strong analytical, stakeholder management, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to perform effectively in a high-pressure, seasonal operational environment.

Core Competencies