About Company
British American Tobacco Zimbabwe (BAT Zimbabwe) is a leading global tobacco company with a significant presence in Zimbabwe’s agricultural and economic landscape. As part of the wider BAT Group, we are committed to building A Better Tomorrow™ by reducing the health impact of our business through offering a greater choice of enjoyable and less risky products to adult consumers. With a rich history spanning decades in Zimbabwe, we are deeply integrated into the economic and social fabric of the communities we serve. Our operations in Karoi are pivotal to our agricultural supply chain, playing a crucial role in sourcing and processing a significant portion of the country’s tobacco crop. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct, sustainability, and corporate governance in all our endeavors. At BAT Zimbabwe, we foster a dynamic and inclusive work environment where innovation, integrity, and personal growth are highly valued, enabling our employees to thrive and make a tangible impact on our strategic objectives and the communities around us.
Job Description
We are seeking an exceptional and highly experienced Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) to join our leadership team in Karoi, Mashonaland West Province. This is a critical leadership role that directly contributes to our strategic objectives, reputation, and commitment to operating with integrity. As an organization operating in a highly regulated industry, ethical conduct, robust compliance, and unwavering integrity are at the core of everything we do. The CCO will be the cornerstone of our governance framework, responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing all aspects of our comprehensive compliance strategy across British American Tobacco Zimbabwe.
The successful candidate will navigate the complex and ever-evolving landscape of local and international tobacco regulations, anti-bribery and corruption laws, data privacy, competition law, and ethical business practices. Your expertise will be instrumental in guiding us to mitigate risks, proactively identify potential compliance breaches, and establish robust internal controls. This role demands a visionary leader with a deep understanding of regulatory requirements, a strategic mindset, and the ability to influence and educate stakeholders at all levels. You will work closely with senior management, legal counsel, operational teams, and various business units to embed compliance principles into daily operations, ensuring that BAT Zimbabwe not only meets but exceeds its regulatory obligations.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the compliance culture and framework within a leading multinational company in a key agricultural region. You will champion our values of transparency and accountability, ensuring that all business activities are conducted in full adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. If you are a dedicated compliance professional with a proven track record of upholding the highest standards of integrity, driving ethical conduct, and leading successful compliance programs, we invite you to join our dynamic team and make a significant impact on our future. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every voice is valued and continuous professional development is encouraged.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive, effective, and efficient compliance program tailored to BAT Zimbabwe’s operations.
- Monitor, interpret, and communicate changes in local (Zimbabwean) and international regulatory landscapes, ensuring timely adaptation of internal policies and procedures.
- Conduct regular compliance risk assessments across all business functions and develop effective mitigation strategies.
- Lead and oversee internal investigations into potential compliance breaches, ensuring thoroughness, impartiality, and appropriate remediation.
- Design and deliver targeted compliance training and awareness programs for all employees, from new hires to senior management.
- Act as the primary liaison with local regulatory bodies, government agencies, and external auditors on all compliance-related matters.
- Develop, review, and enforce company policies and procedures related to ethics, anti-bribery and corruption, data privacy, competition law, and other critical compliance areas.
- Provide regular, comprehensive reports to the Board of Directors and senior management on the status of the compliance program, identified risks, and mitigation efforts.
- Manage, mentor, and develop a team of compliance professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
- Provide expert advice and guidance on the compliance implications of new business initiatives, product launches, partnerships, and market entries.
- Oversee the development and monitoring of key compliance performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in compliance, legal, or audit roles, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership position.
- Extensive knowledge of Zimbabwean and relevant international regulatory frameworks, particularly in highly regulated industries.
- Proven experience in designing, implementing, and managing comprehensive compliance programs.
- Exceptional leadership, team management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
- Demonstrated high level of integrity, ethical standards, and professional judgment.
- Ability to work strategically while maintaining attention to detail and operational effectiveness.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Law (LL.M.), Business Administration (MBA), or a related field.
- Certified Compliance Professional (e.g., CCEP, CCO) or similar internationally recognized certification.
- Previous experience in the consumer goods, tobacco, or a similarly highly regulated industry.
- Fluency in local indigenous languages (e.g., Shona, Ndebele) is an advantage.
- Experience with compliance management software and tools.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs for you and your family.
- Generous pension and retirement savings scheme.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development, training, and career advancement.
- Company vehicle or car allowance.
- Life assurance and disability benefits.
- A supportive and inclusive work environment with opportunities for global exposure.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above criteria are invited to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter clearly highlight your relevant experience and qualifications for this crucial role. We appreciate all applications, but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.