Bosso acting CEO quits

Highlanders Football Club is on the verge of making a critical leadership decision that could shape its trajectory both on and off the field. The Bulawayo giants are scheduled to interview four candidates on Friday for the role of Chief Executive Officer, a post that has remained vacant since the resignation of Brian Moyo three months ago.

The situation at the club took another dramatic turn on Thursday evening when the acting CEO also stepped down. While he confirmed his resignation from the executive role, he stated that he would remain involved as a committee member. His exit adds further urgency to the club's search for a permanent, competent leader at a time when Highlanders are navigating a complex web of financial, administrative, and competitive challenges.

This week's interviews represent more than a procedural exercise. They are a defining moment for a club still chasing its past glory after nearly two decades without a league title. Four candidates have been shortlisted to present their vision for revitalising Highlanders: Nomvelo Mlotshwa, Nkululeko Ndlovu, Denzel Mnkandla, and Nqobile Ngulube. The interviews were originally scheduled earlier but postponed, making Friday's session even more decisive. Although Highlanders Public Relations Officer Nozibelo Maphosa confirmed the interviews, the club did not officially release the names of the candidates.

The incoming CEO will not simply inherit an office at 50 Robert Mugabe Way, but the immense responsibility of steering a historically successful institution now burdened by debt, unpaid salaries, and waning competitive relevance. The appointment comes just as businessman Wicknell Chivayo injected US$1 million into the club, with additional support from Betterbrands and Sakunda Holdings. These contributions provide a short-term financial cushion but underscore the urgent need for sustainable management and revenue generation.

Gone are the days when gate takings could carry Highlanders through a season. In today's harsh economic environment, those funds cover only a fraction of operational costs. The club's business model is outdated and in desperate need of restructuring. Strategic leadership and modern football management are now indispensable.

In its job advertisement, Highlanders set out an ambitious profile for the next CEO. Candidates are expected to hold a relevant Bachelor's degree, possess deep knowledge of sport with a focus on football, and demonstrate experience in executive or sports management. Familiarity with modern football trends such as FIFA Club Licensing was listed as essential. The club also highlighted the importance of being able to engage with stakeholders including the Premier Soccer League, ZIFA, and potential sponsors.

According to global standards for football executives, the responsibilities of the new CEO will include strategic planning, financial management, sponsorship acquisition, stadium and infrastructure oversight, human resource coordination, and brand marketing. These are not optional functions - they are essential in turning Highlanders into a financially sound, professionally run football organisation.

The Highlanders board now faces a stern test. It must resist the pull of internal politicking, nepotism, and nostalgia-driven choices. The club cannot afford to appoint a figurehead based on emotional loyalty or factional interests. What is needed is a principled and pragmatic executive who understands modern football, possesses business acumen, and can lead with integrity.

Each of the four shortlisted candidates brings unique strengths. Denzel Mnkandla, a sports science graduate, has experience with FC Platinum during their title-winning years but operated under a very different financial model. Nomvelo Mlotshwa, armed with a Master's in Sports Management from the University of London, has international experience and a solid academic foundation. Nkululeko Ndlovu combines academic and practical experience in business and football administration, offering a potentially steady and process-driven leadership style. Nqobile Ngulube, meanwhile, has deep community roots in the Highlanders fan base and a strong background in leadership and governance, having authored a book on football administration.

While all four candidates bring valuable perspectives and skills, only one will be chosen to lead Highlanders out of its current malaise. The stakes could not be higher. The outcome of these interviews will reverberate beyond boardrooms, affecting the club's performance on the pitch, its financial health, and the morale of thousands of devoted supporters.

This decision, though made behind closed doors, will define Highlanders' future in ways far more visible and lasting.