The National AIDS Commission (NAC) is a body corporate established in 2001 and reconstituted through the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Management) Act No. 9 of 2018 with new functional roles. The Act mandates NAC to coordinate and provide leadership for the implementation of the National response to HIV and AIDS in Malawi.
An opportunity has arisen to engage qualified persons of Malawian origin to fill vacant positions tenable at NAC Office in Lilongwe.
NAC, therefore, invites applications from suitable candidates to fill the positions of:
HEAD OF ADMINISTRATION AND HUMAN RESOURCE: 1 position – Permanent
Grade: N3
Reporting to: Director of Finance and Administration
Responsible for: Administration Officer, Human Resource Officer
Purpose of the job:
To provide overall leadership and direction in the planning and provision of an efficient and effective human resource and administration support service to the core and support functions of NAC.
Job Summary
- Employer: National AIDS Commission (NAC)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Human Resources
- Closing Date: 2026-10-30
Key Responsibilities
- Developing and implementing viable human resource and administration strategies, systems/processes and procedures for effective accomplishment of the strategic vision and corporate mission of NAC;
- Formulating, reviewing and implementing sound HR management and administration policies and ensure they remain current on best practices, laws and regulations.
- Undertaking regular corporate manpower/human resource planning in line with the skill requirements of NAC;
- Overseeing management of staffing levels and ensure that optimal staff establishments are maintained;
- Implementing efficient recruitment, selection, induction and placement programmes for all staff members in line with the skill requirements of NAC;
- Undertaking regular compensation and benefit surveys and administer compensation and benefits
- Managing performance management systems and ensuring completion of periodic, biannual and annual performance appraisals for improved employee attraction, motivation and retention;
- Undertaking organisation wide periodic training needs assessment (TNAs), make annual budgetary provisions, plan and coordinating training and staff development activities in line with the priorities of NAC to ensure that staff maintain leading-edge skills at all times;
- Handling industrial relations issues and facilitating the resolution of disciplinary and grievances cases;
- Ensuring proper maintenance of personnel and staff establishment records;
- Negotiating contracts with collaborating institutions including seeking legal opinion on matters relating to staff and HR management;
- Coordinating supervision missions and managing exchange visits in liaison with the Heads of Departments and Divisions
- Handling the insurance portfolio of NAC and ensuring that office services are available, the Commission’s assets are procured, insured and their utilisation, and transport is controlled
- Preparing HR/administration budgets; and payroll management
- Preparing job descriptions and continually reviewing, evaluating and grading staff positions with the Heads of Departments and Divisions
- Assess, evaluate and provide for mitigating factors to all threats and opportunities relating to Human Resources and Administration function.
Requirements
- A Master’s Degree in Public or Business Administration or Human Resource Management
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration/Human Resources Management or related discipline
- At least 5 years’ experience at senior management level
How to Apply
Apply by email: nac@aidsmalawi.org.mw
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Head of Administration and Human Resources role at a national institution like NAC in Malawi?
Most employers require a Bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, or Public Administration from a recognized Malawian university such as UNIMA or Mzuzu University. A professional certification like CHRP or IPMZ membership is highly advantageous. Senior roles often demand 7-10 years of progressive HR and administrative experience, preferably within government, NGO, or donor-funded health sectors.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Head of Administration and HR at a commission like NAC?
Daily tasks include overseeing staff recruitment and onboarding, managing payroll and benefits administration, ensuring compliance with Malawi's Employment Act and PSC regulations, and coordinating procurement and facilities management. You will also handle employee relations, performance appraisals, and reporting to the Executive Director. Strong liaison with government ministries and donor partners is common given NAC's public health mandate.
How does the work culture and expectations differ in Malawian government and quasi-government institutions compared to private sector HR roles?
Public and quasi-public institutions emphasize hierarchical decision-making, extensive documentation, and adherence to civil service procedures and donor accountability requirements. Work pace can be slower due to bureaucratic approvals, but job security is generally higher. Professionalism and relationship-building with stakeholders across ministries, NGOs, and international partners are essential for success.
What career progression opportunities exist for senior HR professionals in Malawi's public health and administrative sectors?
Experienced HR heads can advance to Director-level positions in administration, become Deputy or Executive Directors, or transition to regional roles with international organizations like WHO, UNDP, or Global Fund. Some move into consultancy or join larger NGOs managing multiple country programs. Continuous professional development through MANEB, IPMZ, or overseas training strengthens promotion prospects.
What typical benefits should I expect when applying for a senior HR position at a national commission in Malawi?
Benefits usually include competitive basic salary, medical insurance coverage, pension contributions under the Public Service Pension Fund or similar scheme, and annual leave entitlements per Malawi labour law. Some institutions provide housing or transport allowances, professional development funds, and gratuity upon contract completion. Specific packages vary by employer and funding source.
How should I apply for a Head of Administration and HR position at NAC or similar Malawian institutions, and what do employers prioritize?
Monitor NAC's official website, newspaper advertisements in The Nation or Daily Times, and job portals like MyJobo Malawi. Submit a detailed CV, certified academic and professional certificates, and a cover letter demonstrating experience with donor-funded projects and Malawi's public sector regulations. Employers prioritize candidates with proven integrity, knowledge of government systems, and strong networks within the health and administrative sectors.