Manager, Research (Grade D3)

The Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC) invites applications from suitably qualified, ethical and results-oriented candidates for the position below. It is one of thirty (30) positions, comprising thirty-five (35) posts, advertised in the Commission's External Circular No. 1 of 2026 (reference ZICC/HR2/2026), issued on 21 October 2026. The Commission offers competitive public sector remuneration commensurate with qualifications and experience, and meaningful professional growth in a national oversight institution.

The Commission is the independent mechanism required by section 210 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, established under the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission Act [Chapter 10:34]. It receives and investigates complaints from members of the public about misconduct by members of the security services, and provides for the remedying of harm caused by such misconduct. Its core values are Independence, Justice, Truth, Transparency and Integrity.

Position 9: MANAGER, RESEARCH (1 post).

Reference: ZICC/HR2/2026/09. Grade: D3. Reports to: General Manager – Conflict Prevention and Conflict Management. Employment: permanent. Duty station: Head Office, Harare. Closing: 30 October 2026, 16:30 CAT.

Purpose of the position

Manage and deliver high-quality research that informs Commission policy, systemic investigations, annual reporting, institutional learning and evidence-based reform of security sector accountability.

Key performance areas

• Research Agenda and Planning: develop and implement the Commission's research agenda and thematic research plans in line with its constitutional mandate, strategic priorities and operational needs.
• Applied Research and Analysis: conduct and oversee research on complaint trends, security sector accountability, conditions of detention, human rights compliance, institutional culture and systemic risks, including deaths in custody and excessive use of force.
• Methodology and Quality Assurance: prepare research proposals, terms of reference, literature reviews and data-collection instruments; supervise Research Officers and ensure methodological rigour.
• Policy Development and Systemic Reform: translate findings into evidence-based policy recommendations, institutional reforms, training content and practical measures to address recurring patterns of misconduct.
• Interdepartmental Coordination: work with Operations, Legal Services and Strategic Planning to integrate research findings into investigations, policy advice, annual reports and performance reporting.
• Research Ethics and Knowledge Management: ensure confidentiality, informed consent, data protection and ethical treatment of participants; maintain secure research records and produce knowledge products.
• Comparative Practice: monitor regional and international developments and good practice in civilian oversight, complaints mechanisms and security sector accountability.

Qualifications and experience

• A relevant first degree in research, the social sciences, law, public policy, governance, development studies or a related field.
• A postgraduate degree or relevant professional qualification is an added advantage.
• Minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience, including supervisory experience and demonstrable knowledge of public sector systems.

How to apply: a separate application is required for each position. Each application must contain, in this order: (1) an application letter stating the position applied for and its reference number (ZICC/HR2/2026/09 - Manager, Research); (2) a detailed curriculum vitae with complete employment history and dates; (3) certified copies of the National Identity Document and Birth Certificate; (4) certified copies of academic and professional certificates and academic transcripts; (5) certified copies of current professional registrations and practising certificates where the position requires them (Council of Social Workers, Allied Health Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe, Law Society of Zimbabwe, PAAB/ICAZ, Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe); and (6) the names of at least three (3) professional referees, with verifiable telephone numbers and email addresses.

By email: send to [email protected] with the position title and reference number (Manager, Research - ZICC/HR2/2026/09) in the subject line and all documents attached as PDF files.

By hand delivery or registered post: in a sealed envelope clearly marked "VACANCY: Manager, Research - REF: ZICC/HR2/2026/09", addressed to The Human Resources Department, Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission, First Mutual Building, 99 Jason Moyo Avenue, Harare, Zimbabwe.

Applications must be received by 16:30 hours (CAT) on Friday 30 October 2026. Late, incomplete or incorrectly marked applications will not be considered.

The Commission is an equal opportunity employer committed to gender equity, diversity and non-discrimination. Qualified women and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will be subject to background checks, verification of academic and professional credentials, and standard state security vetting. Canvassing in any form, direct or indirect, will result in immediate disqualification. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted; applicants who have not heard from the Commission within thirty (30) days of the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.

Personal information submitted will be used solely for this recruitment process and handled in accordance with the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07].