Various Positions

Mzuzu University

MZUZU UNIVERSITY TRUST FUND

 HOTEL MZUNI

JOB VACANCY ADVERTISEMENTS

BACKGROUND

Mzuzu University established a Tourism and Hospitality Skills Application Centre at its Dunduzu in Mzuzu to enhance competence-based training in tourism and hospitality programmes. The Centre contributes to the strategic competitive advantage of the University’s aspirations through upgrading the quality of teaching, learning and research in tourism and hospitality programmes at the same time generate additional income towards self-reliance through the operation of the hotel business including hosting of conferences.

An opportunity has arisen that the Mzuzu University should run part of the Skills Application Centre as a commercial hotel by the Mzuzu University Trust Fund. The facility has 15 rooms, kitchen, restaurant, bar, conference rooms and other supporting amenities.  It is envisioned that the purpose-built facility will run as any other hotel providing hospitality related services to the general public while supporting vocational training for hospitality programmes. The hotel is therefore expected to be self-financing and generate extra resources to support training and other University activities.

In line with this, Mzuzu University Trust Fund would like to engage the services of qualified and experienced persons to fill the following posts:

  1. Hotel Manager
  2. Head Chef
  3. Food and Beverage Supervisor
  4. Reception/ Front-line Supervisor
  5. Bartenders
  6. Waiters
  7. Accountant

DETAILS OF JOB VACANCIES AND REQUIREMENTS

1. Hotel Manager

 Mzuzu University Trust Fund needs an experienced professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a hotel, ensuring efficient management, and providing strategic direction. The person must supervise staff, manage budgets, implement marketing strategies, handle customer interactions, and maintain compliance with laws and guidelines. The Manager will offer assessable practical skills to the students from the Hospitality faculty.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise work at all levels (receptionists, kitchen staff, maids, office employees etc.) and set clear objectives.
  • Plan activities and allocate responsibilities to achieve the most efficient operating model.
  • Manage budgets/expenses, analyze and interpret financial information and monitor sales and profits.
  • Develop and implement an intuitive and efficient marketing strategy to promote the hotel’s services.
  • Communicate with customers when appropriate (welcome them in the facilities, address their complaints, find solutions to problems and  offer information).
  • Deal with maintenance issues, shortages in staff or equipment and renovations.
  • Collaborate with external parties such as suppliers, travel agencies and event/conference planners.
  • Inspect facilities regularly and enforce strict compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Collaborate with the Hospitality Faculty Management teams on student training.

Requirements and skills

  • Proven experience as Hotel Manager or relevant role
  • Understanding of all hotel management best practices and relevant laws and guidelines
  • Fluency in English; knowledge of other languages is a plus
  • Working knowledge of MS Office; knowledge of hotel management software (PMS) is an advantage
  • Excellent customer service skills as well as a business mindset
  • Demonstrable aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving
  • Reliable with an ability to multi-task and work well under pressure
  • Outstanding leadership skills and a great attention to detail
  • Degree in Hotel/Hospitality Management or equivalence.

Reporting line to: Trust Fund Manager

2. Head Chef

Mzuzu University Trust Fund is looking for an experienced and qualified Head Chef to organize the kitchen’s activities. The Head Chef will be the first in command in the facilities and will create and inspect dishes before they arrive at the customers and ensuring high quality and content.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Controlling and directing the food preparation process and any other relative activities.
  • Constructing menus with new or existing culinary creations ensuring the variety and quality of the servings.
  • Approving and “polishing” dishes before they reach the customer.
  • Control and direct the food preparation process and any other relative activities.
  • Approve and “polish” dishes before they reach the customer.
  • Plan orders of equipment or ingredients according to identified shortages.
  • Arrange for repairs when necessary and remedy any problems or defects.
  • Be fully in charge of hiring, managing and training kitchen staff.
  • Maintain records of attendance.
  • Comply with nutrition and sanitation regulations and safety standards.

Requirements and skills

  • Proven experience as Head Chef
  • Exceptional proven ability of kitchen management
  • Ability in dividing responsibilities and monitoring progress
  • Outstanding communication and leadership skills
  • Up-to-date with culinary trends and optimized kitchen processes
  • Good understanding of useful computer programmes (MS Office, restaurant management software, POS)
  • Credentials in health and safety training
  • Degree in Culinary science or equivalence

Reporting Line to: Hotel Manager

3. Food and Beverage Supervisor

 Mzuzu University Trust Fund is looking for a skilled and enthusiastic Food and Beverage Supervisor to oversee the operations of our dining and drinking facilities.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Oversee the efficient operation of food and beverage outlets.
  • Manage, train and mentor staff to ensure high levels of productivity, quality and customer service.
  • Monitor the quality of food and beverages and ensure they meet the required standards.
  • Handle customer complaints promptly and professionally.
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety and sanitation standards.
  • Assist in the planning and development of menus, taking into consideration factors such as seasonal availability of ingredients and the likely number of customers.
  • Control stock and minimize waste.
  • Manage budgets, financial plans and control costs.
  • Oversee all front and back of the house restaurant operations.
  • Maintain quality control for all food and beverage served.
  • Manage food and beverage inventory and orders.
  • Stay current on restaurant industry trends.
  • Identify opportunities to innovate and enhance the restaurant experience.

 Requirements and Qualifications

  • Proven work experience as a Food and Beverage Supervisor or similar role
  • Strong understanding of the operational dynamics of the food and beverage industry
  • Excellent interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
  • Knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Proficiency in multiple languages is a plus
  • Degree in Hospitality Management or equivalent is a plus

Reporting Line to: Hotel Manager

 4. Reception/ Front-line Supervisor

Mzuzu University Trust Fund is looking for a dedicated and experienced Hotel Reception Supervisor to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hospitality management and a passion for delivering exceptional customer service.

Hotel Reception / Front -line Supervisor will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the reception area, ensuring that all guests receive a warm welcome and efficient service. The Supervisor will lead a team of receptionists, providing guidance and support to ensure that all tasks are completed to the highest standard.

Duties and Responsibilities

  •  Oversee daily operations of the reception area.
  •  Lead and support the reception team.
  •  Handle guest inquiries and complaints.
  •  Manage bookings and reservations.
  •  Coordinate with other departments.
  •  Ensure a high standard of customer service.
  •  Train and mentor new staff.
  •  Monitor and improve reception processes.

Requirements and Qualification:

  •  Proven experience in a similar role
  •  Strong leadership, well organized and communication skills
  •  Excellent customer service skills
  •  Ability to work under pressure
  •  Familiarity with hotel management software
  •  Flexible working hours
  •  Attention to detail
  •  Problem-solving skills
  •  Degree in Hospitality Management or equivalence is a plus

Reporting Line to: Hotel Manager

5. Bartender

 Mzuzu University Trust Fund is looking for an experienced and qualified individuals to take up the posts of Bar-Tender. The Bar-Tenders will make, prepare, and serve beverages to the guests in a friendly and polite manner, ensuring to guest satisfaction by following the corporate values and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Greets all guests, provides eye contact, and warm greeting, engage in pleasant hospitality during every interaction, and provide a thank you for each transaction.
  • Taking drink and food orders, and engaging with customers to enhance their experience.
  • Handling customer inquiries and complaints professionally and in a good manner.
  • Preparing and serving a variety of beverages, including cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Demonstrating knowledge of various drink recipes and recommending drinks based on customer preferences.
  • Handles financial transactions accurately.
  • Keeping the bar area clean, including washing glassware, utensils, and bar tools.
  • Monitoring inventory levels and restocking as needed.
  • Rotating stock to ensure freshness and quality.
  • Keeping track of supplies and placing orders with suppliers when necessary.
  • Collaborating with other staff members, such as servers, kitchen staff, and management, to ensure efficient operations.
  • Staying informed about the latest drink trends, new products, and promotions.

Requirements and Qualification:

  • Must have a basic understanding of food and beverage preparation, service standards, guest relations, and basic etiquette.
  • Knowledge of the proper bar set up, bar display, and menu items.
  • Basic mathematical skills are necessary to operate a cash register, take guest payments, and handle various cash-related tasks.
  • Able to read, speak, and write the local language in able to communicate with guests.
  • Communication Skills – clear communication with kitchen staff, servers, and management is essential and ability to understand and follow instructions accurately.
  • Ability to operate a keyboard and point of sale procedures to pre-check an order and close out a check.
  • Organizational Skills – keeping track of multiple orders and ensuring they are delivered to the correct tables and organizing trays and plates for efficient delivery.
  • Cleanliness – maintaining a clean and organized workspace and handling food with care to ensure it reaches the table in an appealing condition.
  • Bartending work experience is required for at least one year. Guest relations/service experience preferred.
  • Education: At least with MSCE or equivalent with relevant certificate or diploma

Reporting Line to: Food and Beverage Supervisor

 6. Waiter

Mzuzu University Trust Fund is looking for qualified and experienced persons for the post of waiter.

The waiter is one of the key posts as the candidate will work on the front lines of customer service in restaurants and hotel business and is further expected to interact directly with customers, take orders, and ensure that all the customers have a positive dining experience.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Taking food and drink orders, and engaging with customers to enhance their experience.
  • Deliver orders to the kitchen and ensure accurate and timely preparation.
  • Serve food and drinks to customers in a professional and courteous manner.
  • Handling customer inquiries and complaints professionally and in a good manner.
  • Periodically check on guests to ensure satisfaction with the meal.
  • Present bills and process customer payments accurately.
  • Handle cash, credit cards, and other forms of payment.
  • Set tables with appropriate utensils, glassware, and napkins.
  • Organizing and maintaining a tidy work environment.
  • Collaborating with other staff members, such as servers, kitchen staff, and management, to ensure efficient operations.
  • Communicating any issues or special requests from customers to relevant team members.
  • Managing a fast-paced environment, multitasking, and adapting to changing customer needs.
  • Follow hygiene and safety standards in food handling and service.

Requirements and Education:

  • Understanding the restaurant’s policies, procedures, and menu rotation is essential for smooth operations
  • Knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations to maintain a clean and safe dining environment
  • Must have a positive attitude, clear and effective communication with customers, kitchen staff, and fellow waitstaff is crucial
  • Must have basic math skills for handling bills, making changes, and processing payments accurately
  • Teamwork – Collaboration with kitchen and other restaurant staff to ensure smooth service
  • Attention to detail – accurate order taking, attention to customer preferences, and ensuring the correct placement of utensils and glassware
  • Problem solving – quick thinking and the ability to resolve issues or address customer concerns promptly
  • Time management – efficient organization of tasks and time to ensure timely service to customers
  • Experience: Minimum of at one year experience in a busy environment.
  • Education: Diploma/Degree in the relevant field.

Reporting Line to: Food and Beverage Supervisor

 7. Accountant

 Mzuzu University Trust Fund is looking for a qualified and experienced individual to take up a post of Hotel Accountant.

The accountant will be responsible for managing all financial transactions, ensuring that the hotel’s financial records are accurate and up-to-date, and providing financial analysis and reporting to management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Overseeing the financial operations of the hotel, including budgeting, forecasting, and accounting.
  • Working closely with the hotel management team to ensure that the financial goals of the hotel are met.
  • Preparing budgets, financial reports for the hotel management.
  • Reviewing and analyzing financial statements.
  • Identifying trends and areas for improvement.
  • Developing and implementing financial plans and strategies.
  • Ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
  • Reviewing and approving hotel financial statements.
  • Ensuring the accuracy of all financial transactions.
  • Overseeing the preparation of annual budgets.
  • Monitoring actual results against budgeted amounts.
  • Providing financial analysis and advice to hotel management.

Requirements and Qualifications:

  • Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business administration
  • Experience working in hotel accounting / finance field is an advantage

Reporting Line to: Hotel Manager

COMPENSATION:  Competitive package will be provided to the successful candidates commensurate with the posts.

METHOD OF APPLICATION

The applications should include an up-to-date detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV), copies of their academic and professional qualifications as well as names and contact details of three traceable referees. The job title should be indicated on the envelope and sent to:

 Trust Fund Manager

Mzuzu University Trust Fund

Private Bag 201

LUWINGA MZUZU 2

 Or Electronic Submission: 

Electronic submission of the application should be sent as attachments in PDF to trustfund@mzuni.ac.mw .

 To reach the University not later than Friday, 13th June,2025. Note that only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.