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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 or certifications are typically required for an Executive Secretary role in Botswana?
Most employers in Botswana require a Diploma in Secretarial Studies, Business Administration, or Office Management from institutions like ABM University or Botswana College of Distance and Open Learning. Professional certifications such as the Botswana Institute of Secretaries and Administrative Professionals (BISAP) membership or ICSA qualifications strengthen your application. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and excellent English communication skills are essential.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Executive Secretary at a union or similar organization in Botswana?
Daily tasks include managing the executive's calendar, preparing correspondence and reports, organizing meetings and taking minutes, handling confidential union member records, and coordinating with government ministries and stakeholders. You will also manage office supplies, screen calls and visitors, and support event planning for union activities. Strong organizational skills and discretion are critical given the sensitive nature of labour relations.
How does workplace culture in Botswana affect expectations for an Executive Secretary?
Botswana workplaces value respect for hierarchy, punctuality, and formal communication protocols, especially in union and public sector environments. Building personal relationships and demonstrating loyalty to the organization are highly regarded. Dress codes are typically professional, and you should expect to navigate both Setswana cultural norms and modern corporate practices.
What career progression opportunities exist for Executive Secretaries in Botswana?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Executive Secretary, Office Manager, or Administrative Manager positions within larger organizations. Some professionals transition into Human Resources, Operations, or Executive Assistant roles in international organizations based in Gaborone. Further studies in management or labour relations can open doors to policy or advocacy positions within unions.
What benefits are typically offered for full-time administrative roles in Botswana?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave as prescribed by the Botswana Employment Act, medical aid contributions, and participation in pension schemes such as the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund or private alternatives. Union positions may additionally offer professional development allowances and job security protections. Specific packages vary by employer and are often negotiable based on experience.
How should I apply for an Executive Secretary position in Botswana, and what do employers prioritize?
Submit a concise CV with a professional cover letter highlighting your secretarial qualifications and any union or NGO experience to the specified application channel. Employers prioritize candidates with proven confidentiality, strong typing and minute-taking skills, and familiarity with Botswana's labour laws. Prepare for practical assessments and reference checks, as reliability and trustworthiness are paramount in this role.
