About Company
Econet Wireless is a diversified telecommunications group with operations and investments across Africa, Europe, South America, and Asia. Founded in 1993 by Strive Masiyiwa, it stands as Zimbabwe’s largest telecommunications company, proudly serving over 12 million subscribers. Our extensive portfolio encompasses mobile and fixed-line telephony, high-speed internet services, innovative digital platforms, secure mobile money solutions, and cutting-edge renewable energy technologies. We are profoundly driven by a singular vision: to enable a digitally connected future for everyone, focusing intently on continuous innovation, unwavering customer centricity, and fostering sustainable impact across every community we have the privilege to serve. At Econet, we fundamentally believe in harnessing the power of technology to transform lives, empower individuals, and uplift entire societies. Our corporate culture is characterized by a commitment to continuous improvement, a spirit of bold entrepreneurship, and an unwavering dedication to ethical practices and integrity in all our dealings. Join us in our mission to shape the future of connectivity and make a profound, tangible difference in the world.
Job Description
As the Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) at Econet Wireless, you will assume a pivotal leadership role, directly responsible for spearheading the strategic direction, orchestrating growth initiatives, and articulating the long-term vision of our dynamic and expansive organization. Based in Epworth, Harare Province, this critical executive position will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and work in close collaboration with the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors. You will be instrumental in meticulously identifying new market opportunities, conducting thorough evaluations of competitive landscapes, and formulating comprehensive, actionable strategies designed to ensure sustained growth and maintain our market leadership within a rapidly evolving telecommunications and broader technology ecosystem.
The CSO will be primarily tasked with translating our overarching corporate objectives into clear, implementable strategic plans. This includes overseeing their rigorous implementation, continuously monitoring performance against meticulously defined key strategic imperatives, and adapting as necessary. This role demands a truly forward-thinking individual who possesses a profound understanding of global and regional industry trends, anticipates technological advancements, and can accurately interpret the economic forces shaping both the African and international markets. You will lead the entire strategic planning process, which encompasses the development of annual strategic plans, robust long-range forecasts, and sophisticated scenario analyses to prepare for various future eventualities. Furthermore, you will play an absolutely crucial role in evaluating potential mergers, acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and divestitures, meticulously assessing their strategic fit, projected financial viability, and potential impact to enhance Econet’s competitive advantage and strategically expand its operational footprint.
This position requires exceptional analytical prowess, a strong, demonstrable entrepreneurial spirit, and the innate ability to articulate and communicate complex strategic concepts effectively and persuasively to diverse stakeholders, ranging from internal teams to external partners and the Board. You will be expected to cultivate and embed a culture of proactive strategic thinking across the entire organization, fostering an environment rich in innovation and adaptability. Your executive leadership will directly influence critical areas such as our product development roadmaps, market entry strategies, comprehensive digital transformation initiatives, and our overarching, unwavering commitment to delivering superior value to both our valued customers and our discerning shareholders. This is an unparalleled opportunity to significantly shape the future trajectory of a leading telecommunications giant operating within a vibrant, challenging, and incredibly rewarding market.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development, communication, and meticulous implementation of Econet's corporate strategy across all business units and geographical regions.
- Conduct comprehensive market analysis, competitor intelligence gathering, and detailed trend forecasting to proactively identify new growth areas and potential threats.
- Evaluate potential mergers, acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and strategic alliances, leading due diligence efforts and comprehensive integration planning.
- Drive the annual strategic planning cycle, ensuring absolute alignment with organizational goals, objectives, and efficient resource allocation.
- Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and OKRs to rigorously track strategic progress and recommend timely corrective actions where necessary.
- Advise the CEO and Board of Directors on all critical strategic matters, emerging market dynamics, and long-term growth opportunities.
- Foster a vibrant culture of innovation, strategic thinking, and continuous improvement within the entire organization.
- Oversee key strategic projects and initiatives, ensuring successful execution and the achievement of desired outcomes and benefits.
- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing and dynamic strategy team.
- Champion digital transformation and the adoption of cutting-edge technological advancements within the overarching strategic framework.
Required Skills
- Proven expertise and extensive experience in strategic planning, business development, and sophisticated market analysis.
- Exceptional leadership and demonstrated team management capabilities, with a track record of motivating and developing talent.
- Strong financial acumen and a comprehensive understanding of corporate finance principles and practices.
- Superior analytical, intricate problem-solving, and decisive decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication, compelling presentation, and highly effective interpersonal skills.
- Ability to thrive and excel in a fast-paced, dynamic, and inherently complex business environment.
- Proficiency in advanced project management methodologies and tools.
- Demonstrated ability to influence, persuade, and negotiate effectively at all organizational levels.
- Strategic foresight and the ability to anticipate future market shifts and competitive actions.
Preferred Qualifications
- An MBA or another relevant advanced degree from a highly reputable academic institution.
- Extensive experience in the telecommunications, technology, or closely related digital services industry, particularly within emerging markets.
- A professional background in management consulting with a primary focus on strategy development and execution.
- Demonstrated experience leading successful mergers, acquisitions, or significant strategic investment initiatives.
- Familiarity with the specific regulatory environments and policy frameworks within the African telecommunications sector.
Perks & Benefits
- Highly competitive executive salary package and attractive performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage for you and your eligible dependents.
- Generous retirement savings plan with company contributions.
- Company car or a substantial executive transportation allowance.
- Exceptional opportunities for continuous professional development and executive education programs.
- Relocation assistance package (if applicable) to facilitate your move.
- A stimulating, collaborative, and impactful work environment focused on innovation.
- Participation in an executive stock option or equity participation program.
- Access to a network of industry leaders and strategic partners.
How to Apply
We invite visionary leaders ready to drive significant strategic impact to join our journey. Please click on the application link below to submit your comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your strategic vision, relevant executive experience, and why you are the ideal candidate for this pivotal role at Econet Wireless.