JOB OVERVIEW:
The Livingstone Chamber of Commerce and Industry is an independent membership driven organisation whose mandate is to advocate for an enabling multi-sectoral business environment encompassing the whole of Livingstone and surrounding areas.

The Program Officer wears many hats, requiring versatility, initiative, and strong organizational skills. This role involves not only handling the chamber’s daily administrative tasks but also engaging actively with members, coordinating chamber events, and conducting research to develop policy briefs that inform the Executive Committee’s advocacy efforts. The ideal candidate will be a resourceful, self-motivated professional capable of multitasking, building strong relationships, and making impactful contributions to the chamber’s success.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Membership Management
* Recruit and Retain Members: Actively engage with local businesses to grow chamber membership, communicate membership benefits, and build strong relationships with existing members.
* Database Management: Maintain an accurate and up-to-date member database, including contact information, membership dues, and engagement records.

Event Planning and Coordination
* Organize Chamber Events: Plan and coordinate chamber events, such as networking activities, workshops, and seminars, to foster business connections and community
engagement.

Marketing and Communications
* Newsletters and Updates: Regularly update members on chamber activities, events, and business news.
* Social Media and Website Management: Maintain a strong online presence by communicating chamber activities.

Advocacy and Public Relations
* Represent Local Business Interests: Advocate on behalf of chamber members with local government, community groups, and other organizations to support business-friendly policies and regulatory changes.
* Policy Research and Briefing: Conduct research on relevant business issues and prepare policy briefs for the Executive Committee to support informed decision-making and advocacy efforts.

* Community Engagement: Build partnerships with local stakeholders to enhance collaboration opportunities and increase member benefits.

Administration and Financial Management
* Financial Oversight: Track income and expenses, issue invoices, and support the chamber treasurer to prepare financial reports for the Executive Committee.
* Membership Dues Collection: Manage the timely collection of membership dues and follow up on any outstanding payments.
* Office Administration: Handle daily administrative tasks, including answering phones, responding to emails, and organizing chamber records.

Business Support and Resources
* Member Assistance: Serve as a resource for members, offering guidance, referrals, and information on funding, training, and regulatory compliance.
* Resource Directory Management: Maintain a directory of local service providers, suppliers, and support organizations available to members.

Executive Committee Support and Reporting
* Meeting Preparation: Organize and attend Executive Committee meetings, prepare agendas, take minutes, and provide updates on chamber activities, finances, and member engagement.
* Strategic Support: Assist the Executive Committee in setting and implementing strategic goals, with regular updates on progress and outcomes.

QUALIFICATIONS
* Education: Bachelor’s degree in economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, Development Studies, Law, or a related field.
* Experience and Skills:
1. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders.
2. Excellent research and analytical skills for preparing policy briefs and recommendations.
3. Highly organized, with strong time-management and organizational abilities.
4. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and comfortable with digital tools and social media platforms.
5. Strong writing and presentation skills, with the ability to create clear, concise, and compelling content.
6. Experience in event planning, advocacy, or financial management is an advantage.

WORKING CONDITIONS
* Reports to: President, Livingstone Chamber of Commerce and Industry
* Location: Livingstone Chamber of Commerce and Industry Office
* Hours: Full-time, with occasional evening or weekend hours required for events or meetings.