Career opportunity at Chengelo School

Start date: January 2027 or sooner depending on the successful candidate’s availability

Date advertised: 13 October 2026

Application deadline: 23 October 2026

Contract: Full-time fixed term for two years

About Chengelo

Chengelo School is a Christian international boarding school in rural Zambia, with Primary and Secondary sections and an Outdoor Education Centre. We educate and train young people to become witnesses to the light of Jesus Christ in Zambia and beyond.

The role

We seek an experienced HR leader to provide strategic direction and effective day-to-day management of the school’s HR function. Working closely with the Principal, school leaders, Finance and the recognised union, the successful candidate will advise on people matters, strengthen HR systems and promote employment practices, staff wellbeing and the school’s Christian ethos.

Key responsibilities

• Lead HR strategy, workforce planning, succession planning and the review and implementation of HR policies and conditions of service.

• Manage recruitment, safeguarding checks, onboarding, contracts, probation, renewals and employee exits across the school.

• Advise managers on employee relations, grievances and disciplinary procedures; maintain constructive union relations and support collective bargaining.

• Coordinate compensation, benefits and payroll inputs with Finance; oversee accurate records and statutory compliance, including expatriate employment and permit coordination.

• Lead performance management, staff development and employee wellbeing; coach managers and supervise the HR team.

• Prepare HR reports and analysis for leadership and Board committees; maintain confidential records, reliable HR data and effective HR systems.

Qualifications and experience

• A bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management or a related field, supported by a recognised HR qualification. A relevant postgraduate qualification is an added advantage.

• Current membership of the Zambia Institute of Human Resource Management (ZIHRM), in good standing, with documentary evidence.

• At least eight years of progressive HR experience, including a minimum of three years in an HR management or leadership role.

• Strong working knowledge of Zambian employment and labour law, statutory obligations and practical experience managing compliance.

• Proven experience in employee relations, union engagement, recruitment, performance management, compensation and benefits, and HR policy development.

• Ability to advise senior leaders, manage sensitive cases, lead a team and turn HR data into clear recommendations. Strong communication, negotiation and report-writing skills.

• Proficiency in HR information systems, Microsoft Office and Excel, with sound judgement in handling confidential staff information.

• Experience in education, a boarding environment or a multicultural organisation is an added advantage.

• A practising Christian who shares Chengelo’s vision, demonstrates integrity and will participate in the life of its rural school community.

Remuneration and benefits

Staff at Chengelo work out of a sense of calling and are paid at good local Zambian rates. Benefits include on-site accommodation, discounted school fees, a main meal during term time, local medical cover, transport home every two years and an end-of-contract gratuity, subject to the applicable conditions of service.

How to apply

Visit www.chengeloschool.org/work-with-us/ for the full job description, application form and submission instructions. Submit a complete application by 23 October 2026, including:

• A completed Chengelo School application form and a cover letter explaining your suitability, senior HR experience and alignment with the school’s Christian ethos.

• An up-to-date CV and clear copies of academic and professional qualifications.

• Proof of current ZIHRM membership and contact details for three referees, including your current or most recent line manager and a church leader. Please indicate if a referee should only be contacted at a later stage.

• Your earliest available start date or notice period.

Chengelo is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Appointment is subject to satisfactory references, police and identity checks, verification of qualifications and professional membership, and eligibility to work with young people.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you are not contacted within two weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.