Position: Director General

Status: Full Time

Location: Kigali, Rwanda

About the Rwanda Chamber of Tourism

The Rwanda Chamber of Tourism (RCOT) is committed to promoting the Rwandan tourism and hospitality Industry. The Chamber has been pivotal in enhancing business opportunities through effective lobbying and advocacy for a favorable environment in the tourism and hospitality industry in Rwanda. Its growth from a nascent body to a pivotal entity in tourism advocacy and sustainable practices showcases its commitment to fostering a thriving tourism sector that contributes to Rwanda's socio-economic and environmental goals. The RCOT is an umbrella organization that brings together seven key associations, each dedicated to a specific facet of the tourism and hospitality sector in Rwanda. The organizational structure of RCOT is designed to ensure that all segments of the industry are represented and that the collective expertise of its members is harnessed to drive tourism development.

About the Role:

The Director General (DG) will serve as the principal leader of the RCOT, responsible for setting the strategic direction and driving the Chamber’s vision and long term impact.

As the Chamber’s leader, the DG will lead the development and execution of RCOT and its Associations’ strategic plans, ensuring alignment with its values, goals and impact objectives. This role encompasses full responsibility for day-to-day management decisions, operations, and the successful implementation of both short- and long -term initiatives.

The DG will act as the primary liaison between the Board of the RCOT and its stakeholders - and communicate on behalf of the RCOT/Associations to the Private Sector Federation, Association members, Government authorities, other stakeholders and the public. S/he will represent the RCOT in all key engagements, champion its vision, and foster strong strategic partnerships that support its growth and influence.

Responsibilities

• Setting the strategic direction of the RCOT and Associations.
• Lead, with the support and guidance of the RCOT Board, the development and implementation of the RCOT/Association strategic and action plans.
• Modeling and setting the RCOT/Association’s culture and values.
• Effectively lead and manage the RCOT personnel, ensuring clear responsibility, accountability for results and the building of a high performing culture.
• Lead and manage the RCOT’s core functions namely lobbying and advocacy, membership development, capacity building, business linkages and systemic business interventions.
• Manage and report on the budget of the RCOT/Association in alignment with agreed priorities and within the authorized annual budget and procedures.
• Anticipate and analyze problematic situations and occurrences and provide solutions.
• Ensure effective internal controls and management information systems are in place, ensuring compliance and resulting in clean audit reports.
• Oversee all RCOT/Associations operations and activities to ensure they produce the desired results.
• Lead strategic initiatives and projects towards RCOT’s sustainability by mobilizing funds and spearheading intervehtntions generating revenues for the RCOT.
• Enforce adherence to legal guidelines and in-house policies to maintain RCOT/Associations legal and business ethics.
• Effectively build and manage strategic partnerships for the RCOT/Associations, building trust with key Partners, Association Members, Employees, Government Authorities, Development Partners, other Stakeholders and the Public.
• Represent the RCOT/Associations in functions, industry events and public meetings.
• Initiate, plan and manage projects on behalf and for the RCOT/Associations.
• Report to the RCOT Board Members, monthly, quarterly and annually about the progress of RCOT/Associations activities and strategies.
• In consultations with the RCOT Chair, develop board meeting agenda and pre-reading materials, and coordinate logistical details (date, time & venue).
• Compile minutes and submit timely reports to the Board and compile a quarterly newsletter to share with members.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• A Master’s degree in Tourism, Hospitality management, Business Administration, Public Policy, Economics, Management, or any related field.
• Minimum of 5- 7 years leadership experience, preferably in tourism, private sector development, or institutional management.
• Strong knowledge of Rwanda’s tourism ecosystem, public-private sector dynamics, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability in strategic planning, organizational development, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent financial and project management skills with proven experience in budgeting, resource mobilization, and compliance.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills in English and Kinyarwanda (working knowledge of French is an asset).
• High professional integrity, ability to lead and motivate teams.

How to Apply

Please submit your updated CV and Cover Letter by April 30, 2025, at 5:00 PM to the following email: recruitment@rwandatourismchamber.org 

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.