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The Botswana Nurses Union (BONU) is a leading, legally recognized trade union that represents and advocates for the professional and labour interests of nurses and midwives throughout Botswana. With a vibrant membership of more than 9,000 professionals and a commitment to excellence, BONU is the heartbeat of trade unionism in the health sector.
We are seeking a highly strategic, results-driven, and dynamic leader to fill the position of Executive Secretary.
Job Summary
- Employer: Botswana Nurses Union (BONU)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Administration
- Salary: Competitive salary package in line with the BONU Remuneration Policy
- Closing Date: 2026-10-08
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Planning & Execution: Lead the development and execution of BONU’s 3-year and annual strategic plans, ensuring alignment with the 5-year strategy and NEC directives.
- Financial Leadership & Sustainability: Provide strategic oversight of the Union’s financial resources, including budgeting, financial planning, and long-term sustainability.
- Organisational Leadership & Culture: Drive organisational integration and a high-performance culture to deliver the Union’s mandate, fostering excellence, teamwork, and staff development.
- Member Growth & Service Excellence: Champion member-centric service delivery and strategic membership growth initiatives to expand the Union’s reach and impact.
- Policy & Governance Frameworks: Lead the formulation, implementation, and review of policies, regulations, and procedures to ensure compliance and organisational effectiveness.
- Asset & Property Stewardship: Provide strategic oversight of the Union’s physical and movable assets to ensure operational continuity and value preservation.
- Operational Efficiency & Regional Integration: Optimise operational systems and regional office functionality to ensure seamless service delivery across all BONU locations.
- Governance, Legal & Stakeholder Relations: Ensure robust corporate governance, legal compliance, and strategic stakeholder engagement to enhance the Union’s reputation and influence.
- Procurement & Supply Chain Oversight: Provide strategic direction on procurement and supply chain management to ensure value for money, compliance, and alignment with organisational goals.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Administration, Business Administration, Law, Human Resources, or a related field.
- A Master’s Degree in a relevant field is an added advantage.
- A minimum of 10 years’ experience at a senior administrative level.
- Experience in a union, health sector, or similar environment.
- Being a BONU member will be an added advantage.
Salary
Competitive salary package in line with the BONU Remuneration Policy
How to Apply
Apply by email: recruitment@bonu.org.bw
About the Company
The Botswana Nurses Union (BONU) is a professional trade union representing registered nurses and midwives across Botswana. Headquartered in Gaborone, BONU advocates for improved working conditions, fair remuneration, and career development opportunities for its members employed in both public and private healthcare facilities throughout the country. The union engages in collective bargaining with the Botswana government and health sector employers, while also promoting professional standards and continuing education for nursing practitioners. BONU plays an active role in shaping health policy in Botswana, contributing to national discussions on healthcare delivery, nurse staffing ratios, and patient safety protocols.
Advancing nursing excellence and patient care in Botswana.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Executive Secretary role at a union like BONU in Botswana?
Most employers require a Diploma in Secretarial Studies, Business Administration, or Office Management from institutions like ABM University College or Botswana Accountancy College. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and shorthand certification are often preferred. Some positions may accept extensive experience in lieu of formal qualifications.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Executive Secretary at a nurses' union?
Daily tasks include managing the executive's calendar, preparing meeting minutes for council and disciplinary committees, handling confidential member records, and coordinating correspondence with government ministries like the Ministry of Health. You will also organize union events, manage filing systems, and serve as liaison between leadership and members. Strong discretion is essential when handling sensitive labour disputes and member grievances.
How does workplace culture and hierarchy work in Botswana union offices?
Botswana workplaces value respect for seniority and formal communication channels; addressing executives properly and following protocol matters significantly. Punctuality is expected, though flexibility exists during urgent labour negotiations. Building personal relationships through Setswana greetings and occasional after-work gatherings helps integration into the team.
What career progression opportunities exist for Executive Secretaries in Botswana's labour sector?
With experience, you can advance to Office Manager, Administrative Manager, or Head of Secretariat positions within larger unions or federations like BOFEPUSU. Some transition to HR or labour relations roles with additional qualifications. Pursuing a degree in Public Administration or Labour Studies at UB or BUIST opens doors to senior management.
What benefits are typically offered for administrative roles at unions in Botswana?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave of 20-24 days, paid sick leave, and participation in the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund or private pension schemes. Medical aid coverage through providers like Botswana Life or Pula Medical Aid is common. Union positions may also offer professional development allowances and job security through fixed-term or permanent contracts.
How should I apply for an Executive Secretary position at BONU, and what do employers look for?
Submit a detailed CV with traceable references, certified copies of certificates, and a cover letter demonstrating knowledge of Botswana's labour landscape and nursing profession challenges. Employers prioritize candidates with proven confidentiality, experience in member-based organizations, and familiarity with labour laws like the Trade Disputes Act. Prepare for panel interviews that test your situational judgment and administrative competency.
